Corona 3 - Folding Portable Manual Typewriter - Made in USA - Antique (1923) - Fully Working

This is a Corona 3 folding portable typewriter, made in the USA. Introduced in 1912, the Corona 3 was the original and most famous folding typewriter, prized for its compact size when collapsed — a design that made it popular with journalists and soldiers in the early 20th century. Based on its serial number, this particular unit dates to approximately 1923, making it over 100 years old.

Like the Underwood 3-Bank, this machine uses a double-shift, 3-bank keyboard layout, meaning each key is engraved with 3 different characters — a distinctive and increasingly rare style of typewriter keyboard. No case is included with this item.

[Servicing]
This unit had some malfunctions caused by age-related wear and missing/damaged parts. It was disassembled as far as possible to fix these issues, and rust and grime were cleaned off. Lubrication was applied to restore smooth typing operation. Remaining rust, paint loss, scratches, and general signs of use could not be fully removed, but a rust-inhibiting coating has been applied to slow further corrosion and wear.
The original wire that moves the carriage has been replaced with a substitute metal wire for improved long-term durability.

[Functionality Check]
All operations and functions were checked and confirmed working with no issues. Typing action is smooth, and the end-of-line bell sound also works correctly. As the machine has not been used for an extended period, there is some inherent risk of issues arising with continued/heavy use, but normal typing operation is currently smooth.
A brand-new ink ribbon has been rewound onto the machine's original spool and installed (aftermarket spools are not compatible with this model — the ribbon must be rewound onto the genuine spool each time, which can be a bit of extra effort, but adds to the character of owning this piece). Some characters print slightly less clearly than others, but all text is legible. Please refer to the listing photos for the actual printed sample.

[What's Included]
- Corona 3 typewriter (no case)
- A simple, handmade operating guide covering keys, levers, and ribbon replacement (originally written for a different model, but the operation is the same); not a complete manual, but should be enough for first-time users.

This item can be used right away upon arrival. It would also make a wonderful historical display/interior piece — a genuine, functioning piece of typewriter history over a century old.

This is a working vintage typewriter, but as a very aged mechanical item, there is a possibility of age-related issues arising with use. Please look through all listing photos carefully, as they show the actual condition. Please purchase only if you understand and accept this; if you are very particular about condition, please refrain from purchasing.

Notes
Please check all listing photos carefully before purchasing.
This is an antique, serviced item; some age-related wear remains despite cleaning and restoration work. No case is included.

Shipping
The item will be carefully packed and shipped via DHL, FedEx, or UPS with tracking information.

We will ship it within 5 business days.
Thank you very much!