Science & Mathematics

Chemical Balance

The Museum's collections hold thousands of objects related to chemistry, biology, physics, astronomy, and other sciences. Instruments range from early American telescopes to lasers. Rare glassware and other artifacts from the laboratory of Joseph Priestley, the discoverer of oxygen, are among the scientific treasures here. A Gilbert chemistry set of about 1937 and other objects testify to the pleasures of amateur science. Artifacts also help illuminate the social and political history of biology and the roles of women and minorities in science.

The mathematics collection holds artifacts from slide rules and flash cards to code-breaking equipment. More than 1,000 models demonstrate some of the problems and principles of mathematics, and 80 abstract paintings by illustrator and cartoonist Crockett Johnson show his visual interpretations of mathematical theorems.

Topic: Calculating Machines

Mercedes-Euklid Model 8 Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard electric proportional rod calculating machine has an iron and steel frame painted black and 13 columns of plastic keys. Keys are colored according to the size of the digits, not by their place value.
Description
This full-keyboard electric proportional rod calculating machine has an iron and steel frame painted black and 13 columns of plastic keys. Keys are colored according to the size of the digits, not by their place value. A metal rod in back of the keyboard holds four sliding rods that can be used for decimal divisions. At the bottom of each column of keys is a red key that zeros the digit in that column. Moving a lever to the left of the number keys clears the entire keyboard. The keyboard is painted green. Numbers entered on the keys appear in a row of windows under the keyboard that shows 13 number dials.
At the front of the machine, a row of 16 windows shows the result. A row of eight windows shows the dials of the revolution counter, and another row of 16 dials may be used to accumulate totals. A thin metal piece painted black can cover this row. Finger knobs in front of the total windows alter the total and result dials simultaneously. A final set of knobs shows the multiplier in the machine’s automatic direct multiplication (small finger knobs in front of these dials are used to set up the number).
These four rows of dials are on a movable carriage. All five rows of dials have movable decimal markers. The motor for the machine is under the mechanism and behind the carriage. The plug is on the right side. A set of levers on the left of the carriage, near the end of the result windows, releases the carriage. Handles for lifting are on both sides of the machine.
A metal tag on the right of the machine reads: MERCEDES - (/) EUKLID. A metal tag next to the dials of the revolution counter reads: RALPH C. COXHEAD (/) MERCEDES-EUKLID (/) CALCULATING MACHINE (/) NEW YORK CHICAGO. A mark scratched in the base of the machine at the front reads: Property (/) Univ. Mich. A mark at the left front of the machine on the frame for the carriage reads: 9 [. . .]. A mark on the back of the machine reads: Made in Germany.
Ralph C. Coxhead was the American agent for the Mercedes-Euklid during the 1920s. This model sold for $1,225.00 in 1928.
This machine came to the Smithsonian from the Department of Biostatistics at the University of Michigan School of Public Health.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, pp. 156–164.
J. H. McCarthy, The Business Machines and Equipment Digest, 1928, vol. 1, sec. 9, pp. 24–28.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1920s
distributor
Coxhead, Ralph C.
maker
Mercedes-Bureau-Maschinen-Gesellschaft
ID Number
MA.324280
catalog number
324280
accession number
256654

Friden Model STW 10 Calculating Machine

This stepped drum full-keyboard electric non-printing calculating machine has a metal frame painted brownish gray (taupe) and ten columns of brown and gray plastic number keys, with a blank gray plastic zeroing key at the bottom of each column.
Description
This stepped drum full-keyboard electric non-printing calculating machine has a metal frame painted brownish gray (taupe) and ten columns of brown and gray plastic number keys, with a blank gray plastic zeroing key at the bottom of each column. Metal rods between columns of keys turn under the keyboard to indicate decimal places. A small brown and tan bar slides to the right to reset the decimal rods. The capabilities of the Friden STW-10 are quite similar to those of the earlier ST-10, although the exterior design and color are different. The model was introduced in 1949 and manufactured through 1966.
On the right are two columns of function bars. On the left is a ten-digit register that indicates numbers entered for multiplication. Below it is a block of nine white digit keys, with a 0 bar below. These are surrounded by three levers and four function keys.
Behind the number keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit revolution register and a 20-digit result register. Taupe plastic buttons above the result register rotate to set up numbers. Ten numbered buttons under the revolution register are spaced between the digits. A zeroing knobs for the registers is on the top right of the carriage. All three registers have sliding decimal markers.
The machine has four hard rubber feet. There is a rubber cord and a tan plastic cover. A mark on the bottom of the machine reads: S82 (/) STW 10. The original serial number next to the model number has been effaced. Marks on the back and side read: FRIDEN. A mark on the cover reads: Friden (/) AUTOMATIC CALCULATOR. A mark on a sticker on the bottom of the machine reads: FRIDEN, INC. (/) SAN LEANDRO, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A. A mark on the cord reads: SINGER.
Compare MA.334379, MA.335419 and 1984.3079.04.
Reference:
Carl Holm, “Milestones in the Development of Friden.”
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1954
maker
Friden, Inc.
ID Number
MA.334379
accession number
313935
catalog number
334379
maker number
S-82

Warren Experimental Calculating Machine Model

This is the second version of Warren’s calculating machine. Across the front is a brass rod with ten large teeth, one shorter one, and a hollow brass cylinder. Between the teeth are ten levers that link to toothed segments at the back of the machine.
Description
This is the second version of Warren’s calculating machine. Across the front is a brass rod with ten large teeth, one shorter one, and a hollow brass cylinder. Between the teeth are ten levers that link to toothed segments at the back of the machine. The front and back are open; the sides are of a ferrous metal painted black. At the top is a hollow brass rod, mounted across the machine, which has two brass circular structures on it. This is used as a plunger to activate the mechanism. Brass rods with large teeth extend from both sides of the back. There also is a ferrous piece in the shape of a large comb that is attached to the top back of the piece. The machine appears incomplete.
There are no maker’s marks.
Compare MA.311938 and MA.311939.
According to L. Leland Locke, Warren was a teacher, itinerant photographer and then watchmaker by trade. His invention was inspired by his reading about Charles Babbage’s difference engine in 1864. He designed his machines to demonstrate what might be done with machinery, not for sale. A more complete form of the machine, which was exhibited after Warren’s death, is now in the collections of the Michigan State University Museum.
References:
L. Leland Locke, “The Warren Calculating Engine,” Business Equipment Topics, October, 1931, vol. 79, pp. 8, 9. 48, 49.
"Home and Foreign Gossip," Harper’s Weekly, May 22, 1875, vol. 19 #960, p. 423.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1874
ID Number
MA.311939
catalog number
311939
accession number
155183

Marchant Model A Standard Calculating Machine

This lever-set, non-printing manually operated calculating machine has a black steel housing and a wooden base. Rotating the levers sets the pinwheels to enter a number. Color-coded digits marked on the spaces between the levers indicate the digits set.
Description
This lever-set, non-printing manually operated calculating machine has a black steel housing and a wooden base. Rotating the levers sets the pinwheels to enter a number. Color-coded digits marked on the spaces between the levers indicate the digits set. A bar in front of the levers rotates for zeroing. The wooden-handled steel operating crank extends from the right side of the machine. It rotates backward (clockwise) for addition and multiplication and forward (counterclockwise) for subtraction and division.
At the front of the machine is a movable carriage with 13 windows showing dials of the result register on the right and eight windows for the revolution register on the left. The revolution register has no carry. The dials in this register have red digits for subtraction and white ones for addition. Decimal markers slide above both registers on the carriage. The two bars in a metal box at the front of the machine assist in moving the carriage in either direction. Wing nuts at the ends of the carriage zero the registers on it. A bell on the left side of the carriage rings when the result passes through zero. A layer of felt separates the machine and its wooden base. The lid is missing.
A metal plate to the left of the levers reads: The (/) Marchant (/) MANUFACTURED BY (/) MARCHANT CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO., Inc. (/) OAKLAND, CAL. (/) PATENTED JUNE 6. 1911 (/) FEB. 22. 1916. the serial number on the back reads: No5398. A mark on the back of the carriage at the left reads: 1705.
Compare MA.335268, MA.323602, and MA.323603.
This machine comes from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1918
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company, Inc.
ID Number
MA.323603
catalog number
323603
accession number
250163
maker number
5398/1705

Millionaire Calculating Machine

The lever-set manual non-printing direct multiplication calculating machine has a brass mechanism and a metal case with lid. The lid and the flat plates that cover the mechanism are painted black. The carriage is entirely contained within the case.
Description
The lever-set manual non-printing direct multiplication calculating machine has a brass mechanism and a metal case with lid. The lid and the flat plates that cover the mechanism are painted black. The carriage is entirely contained within the case. The ten German silver levers are pulled forward to set up numbers. Left of these is a crank that may be set anywhere between 0 and 9 for direct multiplication and division. Right of the digit levers is a lever that may be set at addition, multiplication, division, or subtraction. Right of it is the operating crank. In front of the levers is a row of 10 windows, which indicates the number set on the levers. These are labeled DIVISOR.
In front of the row of windows is the carriage, with two other rows of windows. The row closest to the levers (further from the front) indicates the multiplier or quotient, the other row, the result or the dividend. The result windows are labeled DIVIDEND and may be set with a dividend using thumbscrews. Zeroing knobs for both these registers are on the carriage. All three registers have holes for decimal markers between digits. One decimal marker survives.
Between the front two registers, at the left, is a button used to shift the carriage. A bell rings when the result changes sign (as in over division). Instructions for operating the machine, and related tables, are given on a paper sheet inside of the lid. A brush for cleaning the machine also is inside the lid. The stand under this machine is not part of this object. It goes with MA.333940. Dimensions don’t include it. This stand has a wooden table at the front that folds down.
Where this machine was used is unknown. It was transferred to the Smithsonian Institution from the Seattle office of the General Services Administration in 1967. The machine has serial number 837.
Precise dating of Millionaire calculating machines is uncertain. Daniel Lewin has estimated that machines from 1900 have serial number 500, those with serial number 1600 from 1905, and those with serial number 2800 from 1910. If this is accurate, machines with serial number in the 800s would date from 1901 to 1904. The Spectator Company, a New York publisher of books on insurance and distributor of calculating machines advertised the Millionaire in 1903. Morschhauser is described as the distributor from at least 1905 onward. Hence a rough date of 1904 for this machine.
Compare MA.311943, MA.312818 and MA.312819.
References:
Daniel Lewin, "Die Entwicklungsgeschichte der Rechenmaschinen der Firma H.W. Egli bis 1931" Typenkorb, Nr. 48 und 49, 1992.
The Insurance Year Book 1903-1904, New York: The Spectator Company, 1903, p. 28.
E. H. Beach,ed., Tools of Business: An Encyclopaedia of Office Equipment and Labor Saving Devices, Detroit: The Book-Keeper Publishing Co, 1905, pp. 14–15.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1904
maker
Egli, Hans W.
ID Number
MA.328619
catalog number
328619
maker number
00837
accession number
273381

Baldwin Calculating Engine

This is the U.S. Patent Office model for a printing pinwheel calculating machine patented by Frank S. Baldwin of St. Louis, Mo., in 1875. The machine has a brass base, two open brass pieces on each side that form a frame, and a brass, steel, and wooden mechanism.
Description
This is the U.S. Patent Office model for a printing pinwheel calculating machine patented by Frank S. Baldwin of St. Louis, Mo., in 1875. The machine has a brass base, two open brass pieces on each side that form a frame, and a brass, steel, and wooden mechanism. A cylindrical drum mounted horizontally on the frame is 11.5 cm. (4-1/2”) in diameter and 5 cm. (2”) in height.
Both ends of this drum are perforated with six round holes. The drum slides along the shaft into a series of position and may be fixed in place by a small lever. Along the surface of the drum are three slots in which levers slide. The levers may be set at any digit from 0 to 9. Moving a lever from 0 to a given number moves a steel arc that pushes the corresponding number of pins above the surface of the cylinder opposite the lever. Rotating the large cylinder rotates a series of intermediate wheels in proportion to the number of raised pins.
These wheels are linked to a set of seven cogwheels, each having ten teeth. On the outer edge of each tooth is a number in type, the numbers ranging from 0 to 9. These cogwheels are linked to a second set of three larger cogwheels that also have digits in type. These wheels may be intended to indicate the multiplier. The front of the two sets of type-wheels has a brass cover that contains a manually operated printing mechanism. The machine has no paper or ribbon
The machine is marked on the large cylinder next to the slots for the three levers: F.P. Baldwin (/) St. Louis, Mo.
Baldwin applied for his patent September 8, 1873. A few examples were manufactured and sold by the Reliance Machine Works of Philadelphia.
Compare to a production model of the machine, MA.310229.
References:
U.S. Patent 159244, February 2, 1875.
“Baldwin’s Arithmometer,” Philadelphia, Reliance Machine Works, about 1875.
P. A. Kidwell, “The Adding Machine Fraternity at St. Louis: Creating a Center of Invention, 1880–1920,” IEEE Annals of the History of Computing, 22 #2 (April–June 2000), pp. 4–21.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1875
date patented
1875 02 02
patentee
Baldwin, Frank S.
maker
Baldwin, Frank S.
ID Number
MA.252698
catalog number
252698
accession number
49064

Friden Model SRQ 10 Calculating Machine

As early as 1952, the Friden Calculating Machine Company produced a calculating machine that would find the square root of a number entered by simply pushing a key. In 1962 the firm introduced this machine, which would find squares of numbers as well as square roots.
Description
As early as 1952, the Friden Calculating Machine Company produced a calculating machine that would find the square root of a number entered by simply pushing a key. In 1962 the firm introduced this machine, which would find squares of numbers as well as square roots. It was manufactured until 1965.
The full-keyboard electric non-printing stepped drum calculating machine has a metal frame painted tan and ten columns of light tan and brown plastic number keys, with a brown key at the bottom of each column. The keys at the bottom of the columns are numbered, from left to right, 0 9 9 8 8 7 7 6 6 5 5. These keys are used to set the decimal point in a number whose root is to be taken, and to begin the taking of the root. Metal rods between the columns of keys and under the keyboard turn to indicate decimal places in ordinary arithmetic.
On the right are two columns of function bars. On the left is a register for recording multipliers, with nine light tan keys and a zero bar for entering numbers. Around these keys are three levers and four function keys.
Behind the number keys is a movable carriage with an 11-digit revolution register and a 21-digit result register. White plastic buttons above the result register rotate to set up numbers. Ten numbered buttons are under the revolution register, spaced between the digits. The clearing button is marked C. Zeroing knobs for the registers are on the right of the carriage. All three registers have sliding decimal markers. The base of the machine is covered with fiber. It has a black cord.
The sides, back, and front of the machine are marked: FRIDEN. Above this mark is a square-root sign. A superscript 2 is to the right of it. A mark on the bottom reads: MODEL [/] SRQ 10. Another mark there reads: SERIAL S2000. The serial number under the word SERIAL has been effaced.
Reference:
Division files.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1965
maker
The Singer Company. Friden Division
ID Number
MA.334382
catalog number
334382
accession number
313935
maker number
S2000

Monroe Model E Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard manually operated non-printing modified stepped drum calculating machine has a steel frame painted black. The eight columns of round plastic keys are colored black or white according to the place value of the digit represented.
Description
This full-keyboard manually operated non-printing modified stepped drum calculating machine has a steel frame painted black. The eight columns of round plastic keys are colored black or white according to the place value of the digit represented. The key stems are banked, standing up further toward the back of the machine. A row of red clearance keys is at the front of the keyboard; a red key for clearing the entire keyboard is on the right side. Between rows of keys are metal strips, painted black on one side and white on the other, that turn to serve as decimal markers. Ther two silver-colored knobs have arrows on them. One on the right is used for automatic keyboard release in continuous addition. One on the left is the register key for the item counter.
A carriage behind the keyboard has 16 black total register dials and eight white revolution register dials. The revolution register has black digits for addition and red ones for subtraction. A metal operating handle with a wooden knob is on the right side. Another handle on the right side of the carriage zeros the total register or the revolution register, depending on the direction in which it is turned. A knob on the right side of the carriage is used to lift it. A crank at the front of the machine rotates to move the carriage. The machine has four rubber feet.
A partly obliterated mark on the front reads: MONROE (/) REGISTERED TRADEMARK (/) Calculating Machine Company (/) New York, U.S.A. A mark in the middle of the back of machine reads: E5681.
This particular machine came to the Smithsonian from Feldman’s Department Store in Baltimore, Maryland, when the then fifty-year old family business was liquidated in 1974.
According to McCarthy, Monroe began manufacturing the Model E in 1916, using serial numbers beginning at 4,000. Monroe received a registered trademark for its machines in 1920, and began marking objects to that effect. In 1921 it replaced its earlier models with the model K. Hence the date assigned.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P.A. Kidwell and M.R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, p. 265.
J. H. McCarthy, The American Digest of Business Machines, Chicago: American Exchange Service, 1924, pp. pp, 80–81, 551.
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Registration 129029, Serial #71117235.
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1916
maker
Monroe Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.334403
catalog number
334403
maker number
E5681
accession number
316382

SCM Marchant Model 8CD Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard, non-printing proportional gear electric calculating machine has a gray and tan frame with eight columns of color-coded gray and tan keys. Above the keyboard, a row of eight dials indicates the number entered.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing proportional gear electric calculating machine has a gray and tan frame with eight columns of color-coded gray and tan keys. Above the keyboard, a row of eight dials indicates the number entered. To the right of the number keys are division, stop, subtraction, short cut multiplication, addition, and multiplication bars. Also included are two carriage shift keys and three clearance keys.
Behind the entry register is a movable carriage with a 16-digit result register and an eight-digit revolution register. To set decimal places, one uses sliding decimal markers. A mark on the carriage reads: SCM MARCHANT. The serial number, indicated on the bottom of the machine, is 8CD - 705041.
The donor was a certified public accountant who had a collection of calculating machines. The date of manufacture (1964) and original cost ($475) are provided by him.
Reference:
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1964
maker
SCM Corporation
ID Number
MA.335426
accession number
319049
maker number
8CD - 705041
catalog number
335426

Odhner Arithmometer

This is one of the first calculating machines built on the design of Willgodt T. Odhner (1845–1905), a Swedish engineer working in St.
Description
This is one of the first calculating machines built on the design of Willgodt T. Odhner (1845–1905), a Swedish engineer working in St. Petersburg, Russia, in the factory of another Swede, Ludwig Nobel.
In the early 1870s, Odhner sought to improve the family fortunes by inventing a calculating machine. He prepared a prototype in 1875, and a model in 1876. In 1877 fourteen machines were built at the Nobel factory. This is one of these machines. Like Frank S. Baldwin of St. Louis, Odhner represented digits by retractable pins that extended from the edge of metal discs. Rotating the disc had an effect proportional to the number of protruding pins. Pinwheel calculating machines would come to sell widely.
The lever-set, non-printing machine has a black cast–iron frame with eight brass pinwheels and a wooden base. Numbers are set by rotating the pinwheels forward, using levers that extend from the wheels. Windows between the pinwheels show the number set. The carriage at the front of the machine has a seven-digit revolution counter at the very front ,and a ten-digit result register behind this.
Seven brass screws are rotated to set numbers in the revolution register. Rotating a wing nut on the right of the carriage zeros the result register, and moving a crank to the left of the revolution counter zeros it. A crank at the right end of the carriage releases it to be shifted. A crank with an ivory knob on the right side of the machine is rotated counterclockwise for addition and multiplication and clockwise for subtraction and division. The base of the machine is covered with green felt. It fits in a wooden case.
The machine is marked on the top: ARITHMOMETER (/) W. Odhners Se Petersburg. Invention. The number 4 is visible several places inside the case, namely along the top edge of the bottom of the case, along the bottom edge of the top of the case, and on all eight of the pinwheels, next to the entry digit 7. The number 5 is on the bottom of the carriage (also inside the machine).
A letter from J. M. Furnas to adding machine manufacturer Dorr E. Felt, dated April 6, 1916, is pasted to the inside of the lid of the case. It indicates that the machine was purchased by Professor Ezekial Brown Elliott about 1865 [sic], after he was appointed United States Government Actuary in May 1865. It was used by Brown until his death May 24, 1888, and purchased from his estate by Mrs. S. Wollard, who had been appointed assistant actuary by Brown and continued in this capacity under his successor, Joseph S. McCoy. Mrs. Wollard continued to use the machine until her death September 6, 1915, at which time it was inherited by her daughter, Mrs. Lillian Bonner, herself a clerk at the Treasury Department. Mrs. Bonner sold the machine to Furnas, who was acting on Felt’s behalf. Other than the alleged date of purchase of the machine, the dates are not impossible.
Compare 310231.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, esp. p. 67, figure 36.
Timo Leipälä, “The Life and Works of W. T. Odhner,” Greifswalder Symposium zur Entwicklung der Rechentechnik, ed. W. Girbardt, Greifswald: Univ. Greifswald, Inst. für Mathematik und Informatik, 2003 and 2006.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1877
maker
Odhner, W. T.
ID Number
MA.323605
accession number
250163
catalog number
323605

Remington Rand R 54 Calculating Machine

This compact lever-set non-printing manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal frame painted gray, with ten brass pinwheels and a metal base. Numbers are set by rotating the pinwheels forward using levers that extend from the wheels.
Description
This compact lever-set non-printing manually operated pinwheel calculating machine has a metal frame painted gray, with ten brass pinwheels and a metal base. Numbers are set by rotating the pinwheels forward using levers that extend from the wheels. The ends of the levers are covered with plastic. Digits inscribed on the frame next to the rotating pinwheels show the number set, and windows above the pinwheels show this number.
The carriage at the front of the machine has eight windows for the revolution counter on the left, and 16 windows for the result register on the right. The revolution register has a carry mechanism. A lever at the right side of the carriage zeros the registers on it. Pushing in a plastic button on the front releases the carriage. Levers on the right can be pushed to move the carriage a single decimal place.
A crank with a wooden knob on the right side of the machine rotates clockwise for addition and multiplication, and counterclockwise for subtraction and division. Thin metal rods above the registers carry plastic decimal markers. A lever covered with white plastic left of the entry register can be set for addition or subtraction.
A mark on a metal tag attached to the back reads: Remington Rand G.M.B.H. (/) FRANKFURT, A.M. (/) (U.S.-Zone) Germany (/) Mod. R 54 No 22603.
The machine has a gray plastic cover.
This machine closely resembles the Walther WSR16 calculating machine, made around 1955 in Niederstotzingen, West Germany. It seems likely that Remington Rand distributed the machine from Frankfurt am Main, while the device actually was made in Niederstotzingen.
For instructions, see 319872.02. These instructions include tables making it easier to use the machine with Sterling currency and with both metric and common measurements. They give the model name R 54 but do not give information about the manufacturer or place of manufacture.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1955
distributor
Remington Rand Inc.
ID Number
MA.335383
catalog number
335383
accession number
319872
maker number
22603

Monroe Model F Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard, non-printing manually operated modified step drum calculating machine has a steel frame painted black. The eight columns of plastic keys are colored black or white according to the place value of the digit entered.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing manually operated modified step drum calculating machine has a steel frame painted black. The eight columns of plastic keys are colored black or white according to the place value of the digit entered. The key stems are banked, standing up further toward the back of the machine.
At the front of the keyboard is a row of red clearance keys for the individual columns above. On the right side is a red key for clearing the entire keyboard. Between the rows of keys are metal strips, painted black on one side and white on the other. They turn to serve as decimal markers. The two silver-colored knobs have arrows on them. The one on the right is used for automatic keyboard release in continuous addition. The one on the left is the register key for the item counter.
In back of the keyboard is a carriage with 16 black total register dials and eight white revolution register dials behind the total dials. The revolution register dials are numbered around the edge from 0 to 9 in white and then from 9 to 1 in red. Metal strips on the carriage carry sliding decimal markers for the registers. Ther metal operating handle with a wooden knob is on the right side. Another handle on the right side of the carriage zeros the total register or the revolution register, depending on the direction in which it is turned. A shaped metal piece on the left side of the carriage is used to lift it. A crank at the front of the machine rotates to move the carriage.
A mark on the front of the machine reads: MONROE (/) Calculating Machine Company (/) New York. A mark in the middle of the back reads: F6981. A tag on the back of the machine reads: PATENTED JUNE 16, 1908 (/) OTHER U.S. AND FOREIGN PATENTS (/) PENDING. A mark on the plastic cover reads: MONROE.
According to McCarthy, the Monroe Model F was introduced in 1917, with serial numbers above 6,000. In 1920, Monroe was granted a trademark for the name Monroe, and used the term “registered trademark” on its machines. Hence the approximate date assigned to this machine.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, p. 265.
J. H. McCarthy, The American Digest of Business Machines, Chicago: American Exchange Service, 1924, pp. 80–81, 551.
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Registration 129029, Serial # 71117235.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1918
maker
Monroe Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.323609
catalog number
323609
maker number
F6981
accession number
250163

Marchant Model ERB8 Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard, electric non-printing pinwheel calculating machine has eight columns of black and white color-coded plastic keys, with a red clearance key at the bottom of each column. The underlying keyboard is painted green.
Description
This full-keyboard, electric non-printing pinwheel calculating machine has eight columns of black and white color-coded plastic keys, with a red clearance key at the bottom of each column. The underlying keyboard is painted green. Between banks of keys are metal rods for decimal markers.
Right of the number keys are red plastic ADD and CLEAR keys, as well as an unmarked red key. When the add key is depressed, the keyboard clears after each operation. Above the clear key are subtraction and addition bars. Right of these is a black lever for use in division. Left of the number keys is the switch for turning on the motor.
In back of the keyboard is a movable carriage with 12 windows in the result register. Behind this are eight windows for showing digits entered, a lever that may be set at multiplication or division, and eight windows for the revolution register. Two black keys next to the carriage clear the result and revolution registers. A metal carriage shift handle is at the front, and the motor is at the back. The machine has a gray cord.
A metal tag attached to the left side of the machine reads: MARCHANT. A metal tag attached to the bottom has the serial number: ERB8-3221. A metal tag attached to the top of the motor at the back of the machine reads: MANUFACTURED FOR (/) THE (/) MARCHANT (/) CALCULATING (/) MACHINE CO. (/) SIMPLICITY (/) ACCURACY (/) SPEED. It also reads: WESTINGHOUSE ELEC. & MFG. CO. A paper sticker on the front reads: For Sales, Service & (/) Supplies (/) FRANK E. WILBER CO. (/) 591 Market St. (/) San Francisco (/) Phone GArfield 1-0115.
The style of the MARCHANT label on the side of the machine indicates that it dates before 1933. The model ERB was introduced in 1926, but only with six and nine banks of keys. It later was offered with an eight-bank capacity (as in this machine), as well as a ten-bank capacity. The model ERB8 sold in 1930 and 1931 for $425. By June 1935 it was superseded by the EER.
Reference:
Marchant Math-Mechanics, vol. 6, 1940. p. 96.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1930
maker
Marchant Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.336476
catalog number
336476
accession number
1977.1225
maker number
ERB8-3221

Mercedes-Euklid Model 1 Calculating Machine

The Mercedes-Euklid calculating machine has a distinctive mechanism. Moving a lever or pushing a key engages a toothed gear with one of a series of ten parallel toothed racks that move crosswise when the crank is turned.
Description
The Mercedes-Euklid calculating machine has a distinctive mechanism. Moving a lever or pushing a key engages a toothed gear with one of a series of ten parallel toothed racks that move crosswise when the crank is turned. The amount a rack moves varies according to its distance from the back rack. A rod, called a proportional rod, pivoted along this rack controls this motion. The amount a rack moves determines the motion of gears linked to it, and hence the number entered.
This manually operated and lever-set proportional rod calculating machine has a black steel frame and a steel base. Nine levers are used to set numbers, with a row of windows below that shows the number set. To the right of the levers is the operating crank. In front is a carriage that can be moved when a release button to the left of the setting levers is pushed. The carriage has eight numeral wheels for recording revolutions of the crank, and 16 numeral wheels for recording results. The numeral wheels are covered with glass.
Numbers also may be set in the result register by rotating thumbscrews in the front of the carriage. They are used to set a dividend. Below the thumbscrews are knobs for zeroing the revolution counter and result register. To the left of the setting levers and carriage release button are two levers. One may be set at N or C. When it is set at N, the number in the revolution register increases by one whenever the crank is rotated. When it is at C, one rotation leads to subtraction in the revolution register. The other lever may be set at ADD.MULT or SUBT.DIV., depending on the arithmetic operation desired.
A mark on the top of the machine reads: MERCEDES-EUKLID. The serial number, given below the carriage at the left, is 1020. A mark on the carriage reads: MERCEDES-BUREAU-MASCHINEN-GES.m.b.H. [/] MEHLIS i.TH.u.BERLIN W.
Christian Hamann of Berlin patented this machine, and it was manufactured in Germany from about 1905. This example came from the collection of Felt & Tarrant Manufacturing Company.
References:
C. Hamann, "Calculating Machine," U.S. Patent 1,011,617, December 12, 1911.
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, pp. 156–164.
E. M. Horsburgh, ed., Handbook of the Napier Tercentenary Celebration of Modern Instruments and Methods of Calculation, Edinburgh: G. Bell & Sons, 1914, pp. 104–117.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1912
maker
Mercedes-Bureau-Maschinen-GES.m.b.H.
ID Number
MA.330821
accession number
305775
maker number
1020
catalog number
330821

SCM Marchant Model 10CMF Calculating Machine

This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a metal frame painted two shades of gray and ten columns of gray and light gray color-coded round plastic number keys.
Description
This full-keyboard, non-printing electric proportional gear calculating machine has a metal frame painted two shades of gray and ten columns of gray and light gray color-coded round plastic number keys. To the right of the keyboard are a variety of charcoal-colored function keys, including a key lock key that is not found on the model 10CM. Right of these is a column of square plastic keys used in multiplication. Above these is a lever not found on the 10CM. Right of these keys is an on-off switch. To the left of the number keys is a charcoal-colored unlock key. A row of ten dials behind the number keys shows the number entered.
A movable carriage behind the entry register has a 20-window result register with a 11-window revolution counting register behind it. A row of metal flaps under both registers on the carriage provides decimal markers. Under the decimal markers for the revolution register are ten rectangular buttons. On the right of the carriage is an unlock lever.
A mark on the carriage reads: SCM MARCHANT. The serial number, on a metal tag attached at the base, is 10CMF-676586
The donor was a certified public accountant who had a collection of calculating machines. The date of manufacture and original cost ($880) are provided by him.
References:
SCM, "SCM Marchant Model Consolidation Service Instruction," 1962, p. VII (1979.3084.65).
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1963
maker
SCM Corporation
ID Number
MA.335423
accession number
319049
maker number
676586
catalog number
335423

Odhner Arithmometer

This is one of the first calculating machines built on the design of Willgodt T. Odhner (1845–1905), a Swedish engineer working in St.
Description
This is one of the first calculating machines built on the design of Willgodt T. Odhner (1845–1905), a Swedish engineer working in St. Petersburg, Russia, in the factory of another Swede, Ludwig Nobel.
In the early 1870s, Odhner sought to improve his fortune by inventing a calculating machine. He prepared a prototype in 1875, a model in 1876 and in 1877 arranged to have 14 machines built at the Nobel factory. This is one of these machines. Like Frank S. Baldwin of St. Louis, Odhner represented digits by retractable pins that extended from the edge of metal discs. Rotating the disc had an effect proportional to the number of protruding pins. Pinwheel calculating machines came to sell widely.
This lever-set non-printing machine has a black cast–iron frame with eight brass pinwheels and a wooden base. Numbers are set by rotating the pinwheels forward using levers that extend from the wheels. Windows between the pinwheels show the number set. Commas are painted on the case to indicate decimal divisions.
The carriage is at the front of the machine, with a seven-digit revolution counter at the very front and a ten-digit result register behind this. Seven brass screws rotate to set numbers in the revolution register. Rotating a wing nut on the right of the carriage zeros the result register, and turning a crank on the left of the revolution counter zeros it. A crank at the right end of the carriage may be designed to release it. A crank with an ivory knob on the right side of the machine is rotated counterclockwise for addition and multiplication and clockwise for subtraction and division.
A mark at the top of the machine reads: W. Odhners (/) ARITHMOMETER. A second, underlined, mark there reads: L. Nobel. A third, underlined, mark there reads: St. Petersburg. The number “9” has been stamped several places that are visible when the case is opened. Specifically, it is found on the top edge of the bottom of the case and the bottom edge of the top of the case, on a gear inside the crank, and on the right side of each of the pinwheels. It also has a "9" on the inside of the carriage.
Compare MA.323605.
This machine was owned by Joseph S. McCoy, actuary of the U.S. Treasury Department.
References:
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, esp. p. 67, figure 36.
Timo Leipaelae, “The Life and Works of W. T. Odhner,” Greifswalder Symposium zur Entwicklung der Rechentechnik, ed. W. Girbardt, Greifswald: Univ. Greifswald, Inst. für Mathematik und Informatik, 2003 and 2006.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1877
maker
Nobel, L.
ID Number
MA.310231
accession number
113246
catalog number
310231

Curta Type I Calculating Machine

This compact cylindrical handheld calculating machine has black metal sides and a plastic top and operating handle. Eight slots along the side of the cylinder hold levers that are pulled down to set numbers. The digit entered appears at the top of the slot.
Description
This compact cylindrical handheld calculating machine has black metal sides and a plastic top and operating handle. Eight slots along the side of the cylinder hold levers that are pulled down to set numbers. The digit entered appears at the top of the slot. Holes around the edge of the top reveal the digits of the multiplier, which may be up to six digits large. The result also shows through holes around the edge of the top, and may be 11 digits large. The top may be rotated, as one one would move a carriage on an earlier stepped drum calculating machine. Sliding decimal markers indicate decimal places in entries, multipliers, and results.
To zero the machine, one raises the carriage and rotates a black disc under the operating lever through one turn. The operating handle is pulled out for subtraction and division. Moving a lever on the side of the cylinder causes subtraction rather than addition in the revolution counting register. The machine fits in a black metal cylindrical case. The lid of the case turns clockwise to open.
The operating instructions received with the machine are stored separately.
The machine is marked on the case and on the side: CURTA. It is marked on the base: System Curt Herzstark (/) Made in Liechtenstein (/) by Contina AG Mauren (/) Type I No 34691. It is also marked there: Scholl (/) POSTSTRASSE 3. ZURICH. It is marked on the lid: OPEN.
This example of the Curta was used by Professor Charles T. G. Looney, who taught engineering at the University of Maryland.
The Curta calculating machine was invented by the Austrian Curt Hertzstark (1902–1988). He worked on the design during World War II as a prisoner at the Nazi concentration camp of Buchenwald, and produced the machine after the war in Leichtenstein. The Curta Type I was manufactured from 1949 until early 1972, when handheld electronic calculators replaced it.
Compare to 1981.0922.01.
Reference:
Curt Hertstark, Interview with Erwin Tomash, September 10 and 11, 1987, Oral History 140, Charles Babbage Institute, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1957
maker
Contina AG Mauren
ID Number
MA.333848
catalog number
333848
accession number
303780
maker number
34691

Grant Grasshopper Calculating Machine

This lever-set non-printing manually operated connection pawl calculating machine has an open iron frame painted black, with steel and brass parts and paper labels. Five pins at the front of the machine slide backward to set digits.
Description
This lever-set non-printing manually operated connection pawl calculating machine has an open iron frame painted black, with steel and brass parts and paper labels. Five pins at the front of the machine slide backward to set digits. Next to each pin is a thin strip of paper with the digits from 0 to 9 printed on it, the digits increasing toward the back of the machine. Each strip also has complementary digits in smaller type, for use in subtraction and division.
Moving back a pin drives back a toothed rack. Behind the racks is a movable carriage with 11 gears on it. A paper strip with digits on it is next to each gear. Turning a crank at the front right of the machine moves the racks back to engage the gears, turning each one of them in proportion to the number set. When the adding frame reaches the end of its backward movement, a cam set on the crank shaft at the front raises all the register gears a little so that the gears are disengaged from the racks and not moved in the return motion The cam on this machine is smaller than on other Grant grasshopper machines, but like that on MA.311941.
One tooth on each gear extends so that when the gear has made a complete rotation, it engages one of the carry teeth arranged on a spiral shaft above the carriage. As the adding racks return to position, the shaft revolves and the carry tooth pushes the next gear up by one, resulting in a carry. Releasing the carriage and turning it one revolution zeros the result shaft.
A mark on a paper tag to the right of the rightmost pin reads: Grant Calculating Machine Co. (/) LEXINGTON, MASS., U.S.A. (/) MACHINE NUMBER 18M .
This machine was given to the museum by George B. Grant’s half-brother, Edwin A. Bayley.
References:
Machinery, October 1895.
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (Die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, p. 77.
U.S. Patent 605,288 (June 7, 1898).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1896
maker
Grant Calculating Machine Company
ID Number
MA.310648
catalog number
310648
accession number
118852
maker number
18M

Lehigh Calculating Machine

This pinwheel, lever-set non-printing calculating machine has a black metal case painted black, and 12 levers that are moved forward and down to set the brass pinwheels.
Description
This pinwheel, lever-set non-printing calculating machine has a black metal case painted black, and 12 levers that are moved forward and down to set the brass pinwheels. Digits are indicated to the left of each lever on the case, and a register at the top of the machine indicates the number entered. There levers have a zeroing bar. To the left of the levers is a divide/multiply lever. On the right side is an operating crank with a wooden handle.
At the front a movable carriage has a row of 12 windows on the left side that shows the digits on the revolution counter and a row of 20 windows on the right for showing totals. There is a carry in the revolution counter. Rotating thumbscrews at the ends of the carriage zero the registers on it. All three registers have sliding decimal markers. A mechanismat the front releases the carriage shift.
The machine rests on a metal base that has a metal handle at the front. The bottom has four rubber feet.
A mark stenciled on the front of the machine reads: LEHIGH (/) CALCULATOR. A mark stenciled on the back reads: LEHIGH (/) CALCULATOR (/) [...]ANUFACTURED & GUARANTEED (/) BY (/) THE LEHIGH (/) CORPORATION (/) NEW YORK, U.S.A. (/) FACTORY - NEWARK, N.J. (/) PATENTED (/) (OTHER PATENTS PENDING) (/) AUG. 4, 1921 (/) APR.25, 1922 (/) MAY 3, 1922. The serial number, stamped on the bottom, is: 8145.
The patent dates on the machine apparently refer to patents taken out by Hugo Enders of Lehighton, Pa., and then Belleville, N.J., in 1921 and 1922, although the dates do not match precisely in all cases. Enders took out patents relating to calculating machines and assigned them to the Lehigh Corporation of New York City, N.Y.
According to Typewriter Topics, the Lehigh calculating machine was introduced in about July of 1920, when it was manufactured in Lehighton, Pennsylvania. By 1922, the Lehigh Corporation had completed a new factory in Newark, New Jersey. It stopped selling machines the following year.
Compare Triumphator calculating machine MA.323655.
References:
“The Lehigh Calculating Machine,” Typewriter Topics, vol. 45 # 3, July, 1920, p. 260.
“Gaining the Lehigh Objective,” Typewriter Topics, vol. 50 #2, February, 1922, pp. 190, 193.
J. H. McCarthy, The American Digest of Business Machines, Chicago: American Exchange Service, 1924, p. 549.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1922-1923
maker
Lehigh Corporation
ID Number
MA.311946
catalog number
311946
accession number
155183
maker number
8145

TIM III Calculating Machine

This sturdy German stepped drum, manually operated non-printing calculating machine has a brass and iron case painted black. The eight-digit entry levers are linked to dials that record the number entered and to steel stepped drums. Levers in front of the dials zero the entry.
Description
This sturdy German stepped drum, manually operated non-printing calculating machine has a brass and iron case painted black. The eight-digit entry levers are linked to dials that record the number entered and to steel stepped drums. Levers in front of the dials zero the entry. The addition & multiplication / subtraction & division lever is on the left, and the operating crank is on the right. The plate at the front is easily removed to show the levers and bell.
In back of the levers is the carriage, with nine revolution register dials and 16 result register dials. The zeroing bars for these registers are on the right of the carriage. A knob for lifting the carriage is on its far left. When the entry in the result register becomes negative (as in subtraction or division), a bell rings. It rings again if a number is added to bring the total to zero or more. The entire machine has a steel cover painted black.
A metal tag attached to the front of the machine reads: Sold by (/) The TIMES-INTO Co. (/) TRADE MARK. It also reads: Ludwig Spitz & Co. G.m.b.H. (/) T I M (/) TIME IS MONEY (/) TRADE MARK. It also reads: CHICAGO (/) U.S.A. The front of the machine reads: Made in Germany. Also stamped on the machine is: PATENT. A mark on the machine under the carriage at the right reads: 06573. Another mark on the machine, under the carriage at the left reads: 9239.
The machine was put into use at the Public Service Corporation of New Jersey (later the Public Service Electric and Gas Company) in 1923. The company considered scrapping the machine in 1962, but gave it to the Smithsonian Institution instead.
References:
Accession file.
E. Martin, The Calculating Machines (die Rechenmaschinen), trans. P. A. Kidwell and M. R. Williams, Cambridge: MIT Press, 1992, pp. 191–194.
J. H. McCarthy, The American Digest of Business Machines, Chicago: American Exchange Service, 1924, pp. 84–85. By this time, the American agent for the TIM calculating machine was the Times Into Company of Chicago.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1923
maker
Ludwig Spitz & Co.
ID Number
MA.321541
catalog number
321541
accession number
244668
maker number
06573 or 9239

Millionaire Calculating Machine

This is the mechanism for a direct multiplication, lever-set, manual non-printing Millionaire calculating machine. It includes a metal base, an iron frame for the base, and part of the carriage and the mechanism for entering numbers (but only part).
Description
This is the mechanism for a direct multiplication, lever-set, manual non-printing Millionaire calculating machine. It includes a metal base, an iron frame for the base, and part of the carriage and the mechanism for entering numbers (but only part). Also present are a component used in direct multiplication, and two cranks on their shafts. The parts of the machine are marked with different numbers. The machine has no case or lid.
Stamped on the iron frame near the right front corner is the serial number: 4154. A mark painted on the carriage reads: 27-80. The number “27-80” indicates that the machine came from the collection of New York teacher and historian of mathematics L. Leland Locke (see accession 155183 and non-accession 1983.3003). Other parts of the machine may well be in non-accession 1983.3003.
According to the estimates of Daniel Lewin, a Millionaire calculating machine with serial number 4200 was made in 1915. Hence the rough date of 1914 is assigned to this object.
Reference:
Daniel Lewin, "Die Entwicklungsgeschichte der Rechenmaschinen der Firma H.W. Egli bis 1931" Typenkorb, Nr. 48 and 49, 1992.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1914
maker
Egli, Hans W.
ID Number
MA.317387
catalog number
317387
maker number
04154
accession number
230394

Grant Grasshopper Calculating Machine

This is the form of calculating machine exhibited by George B. Grant at the Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893. It is a lever-set non-printing manually operated connection pawl machine.
Description
This is the form of calculating machine exhibited by George B. Grant at the Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893. It is a lever-set non-printing manually operated connection pawl machine. The form is called Grant’s grasshopper model because of its appearance.
The machine has an open iron frame painted black, with steel and brass parts and paper labels. Five sliding pins at the front of the machine are used to set numbers on racks beneath. Next to each pin is a thin strip of paper with the digits from 0 to 9 printed on it. The digits increase as one goes toward the back of the machine. Each strip also has complementary digits in smaller type, for use in subtraction and division. Moving back a pin drives back a toothed rack.
Behind the racks is a movable carriage with 11 gears on it. A paper strip with digits on it is next to each gear. Turning a crank at the front right of the machine moves the racks back to engage the gears, turning each one of them in proportion to the number set. When the adding frame reaches the end of its backward movement, a cam set on the crank shaft at the front raises all the register gears a little so that the gears are disengaged from the racks and not moved in the return motion. One tooth on each gear extends so that when the gear has made a complete rotation, it engages one of the carry teeth arranged on a spiral shaft above the carriage. As the adding racks return to position, the shaft revolves and the carry tooth pushes the next gear up by one, resulting in a carry. The result appears o the paper strips between the gears on the carriage.
Releasing the carriage and turning it one revolution zeros the result shaft.
A slip of paper to the right of the number levers reads: GEORGE B. GRANT, (/) LEXINGTON, MASS. It also reads: 1.95. Y.
This machine was given to the museum by George B. Grant’s half-brother, Edwin A. Bayley.
Compare MA.310647 and MA.335633. MA.310647 has a metal plate at the back not found on MA.335633.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1893
maker
Grant, George B.
ID Number
MA.310647
catalog number
310647
accession number
118852
maker number
1.95. Y

Grant Experimental Model Calculating Machine

This lever-set non-printing connection pawl calculating machine is the last experimental model of George B. Grant, designed to incorporate subtraction and division as well as addition and multiplication. It has a wooden base and a brass frame. Five pins slide to set numbers.
Description
This lever-set non-printing connection pawl calculating machine is the last experimental model of George B. Grant, designed to incorporate subtraction and division as well as addition and multiplication. It has a wooden base and a brass frame. Five pins slide to set numbers. Positions next to the pins are labeled from 0 to 9. Moving back a pin drives back a toothed rack.
Behind the racks is a movable carriage with 11 gears on it. The carriage can be set at six different positions. When the racks are pushed back (there is no cam to drive the racks), the gears are engaged, and rotate in proportion to the number set. The gears move in the opposite direction when the racks are moved forward. Carry teeth are arranged in a spiral shaft above the carriage. A lever at the front of the machine may be rotated in a way that may affect the action of the carry shaft. A crank on the right zeros the result shaft.
This model represents Grant’s enduring interest in the improvement of calculating devices. It did not lead directly to any commercial product.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
after 1895
maker
Grant, George B.
ID Number
MA.310650
catalog number
310650
accession number
118852

Millionaire Calculating Machine

In the early 20th century, William A. Morschhauser of New York City became the exclusive American distributor of the Millionaire calculating machine. He placed machines at several United States government offices, including the Post Office Department.
Description
In the early 20th century, William A. Morschhauser of New York City became the exclusive American distributor of the Millionaire calculating machine. He placed machines at several United States government offices, including the Post Office Department. This is one example of such a machine.
The lever-set manual non-printing direct multiplication machine sits in a metal box that has a flat steel lid painted black. The top of the box (under the lid) has a brass cover plate, in two parts, that has various holes to accommodate the operating parts of the machine. A row of ten slits in the middle back of the cover plate allows for the motion of ten levers that are moved to set digits. The digits set appear in a row of windows in front of the slits.
In front of the setting mechanism is a carriage that moves within the case. It has 20 holes that record results of addition, subtraction, and multiplication problems. Thumbscrews under the result windows are used to set the divisor in division. In back, to the left of the result windows and also on the carriage, is a row of ten windows of the revolution counter.
To the left of the levers for setting numbers is the handle that is moved to set digits for direct multiplication. To the right of the levers is a knob that can be set for addition, multiplication, division or subtraction. Right of this is the operating handle. A paper table glued to the inside of the lid gives operating instructions and a set of tables for use in division. Two safety screws are to be used when the instrument is moved.
A mark stamped on the machine at the middle reads: THE MILLIONAIRE. A brass tag attached to one corner reads: Hans W. Egli (/) Ingenieur (/) Fabrikation von Rechenmaschinen (/) Pat. O. Steiger (/) ZURICH II. A mark stamped on the right corner reads: No 821. Another mark near there reads: MADE IN SWITZERLAND. A brass tag near one of the corners reads: W.A. Morschhauser (/) SOLE AGENT (/) 1 Madison Avenue, (/) NEW YORK CITY. A mark on the carriage reads: PTD MAY 7TH 1895. SEPT. 17TH 1895.
Compare MA.312818 and MA.312819.
Precise dating of Millionaire calculating machines is uncertain. Daniel Lewin has estimated that machines with serial number 500 date from 1900, those with serial number 1600, from 1905, and those with serial number 2800, from 1910. If this is accurate, a machine with a serial number in the 800s dates from 1900 to 1904. The Spectator Company, a New York publisher of books on insurance and a distributor of calculating machines, advertised the Millionaire in 1903. Morschhauser is described as the distributor from at least 1905 onward, hence a rough date of 1904 for this machine.
References:
Daniel Lewin, "Die Entwicklungsgeschichte der Rechenmaschinen der Firma H.W. Egli bis 1931" Typenkorb, Nr. 48 und 49, 1992.
The Insurance Year Book 1903–1904, New York: The Spectator Company, 1903, p. 28.
E. H. Beach, ed., Tools of Business: An Encyclopaedia of Office Equipment and Labor Saving Devices, Detroit: The Book-Keeper Publishing Co, 1905, pp. 14–15.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1904
maker
Egli, Hans W.
ID Number
MA.312818
catalog number
312818
maker number
00821
accession number
167157

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