A fully functional and serviced Smith-Corona Silent from 1952 represents one of the company’s most respected early-1950s portable models, produced during a period when American manufacturers emphasized durability, mechanical refinement, and dependable office performance. The Silent series was positioned as a higher-grade portable, engineered for smooth operation and consistent alignment in both professional and home writing environments.
Constructed with a solid steel body and finished in classic mid-century enamel, the Silent reflects the confident industrial styling of early 1950s American design — structured, purposeful, and built with longevity in mind. Its stable footprint and substantial internal frame give it a planted, confidence-inspiring feel on the desk while remaining fully portable.
Fitted with a Pica typeface (10 characters per inch), the machine produces bold, evenly spaced text with strong clarity and consistent impression. Pica remains the traditional standard for correspondence and manuscript preparation, valued for its legibility and balanced proportions across full pages.
Performance is defined by smooth carriage travel, precise escapement engagement, and a controlled, cushioned key response that supports steady, fatigue-free typing. The Silent’s internal mechanics emphasize alignment stability and long-term serviceability — qualities that have contributed to the model’s enduring reputation among collectors and working writers alike.
A highly regarded early-1950s American portable combining proven mechanical reliability, clean mid-century design, and strong Pica output — a serious writing machine and a foundational piece in any vintage typewriter collection.
Serviced by Adam Brooks with Brooksaw Antiques, an experienced typewriter technician of over 7 years. Servicing vintage typewriters involves a series of steps to restore it to optimal working condition, ensuring smooth operation and longevity. Here’s a summary of what’s typically done:
Inspection: The process starts with a thorough check of all components—keys, typebars, carriage, platen, ribbon mechanism, and springs—to identify wear, damage, or stuck parts.
Cleaning: Decades of dust, ink, and grime are removed. A soft brush and compressed air clear out debris from the typebars and chassis. Keytops are wiped down, and the platen (rubber roller) is cleaned with a mild solvent to restore grip. Harsh chemicals are avoided to protect metal and rubber.
Lubrication: Moving parts—like the carriage rails, typebar pivots, and shift mechanism—are lightly lubricated with typewriter-specific oil.
Adjustments: Alignment is key. Typebars are adjusted to strike evenly, ensuring crisp impressions. The carriage tension is checked, and the escapement (which controls letter spacing) is fine-tuned.
Repairs: Worn or broken parts—like springs, screws, or rubber feet—are replaced. A brand new universal ink ribbon is installed, which is easily replaceable and widely available on most online platforms.
Testing: The typewriter is typed on extensively—every key, shift, spacebar, and return—to confirm smooth action, proper alignment, and consistent ink delivery. Any sluggishness (e.g., sticky keys) is addressed by revisiting problem areas.
Shipments are all packed to be virtually indestructible and shipped same or next business day. You are risking damage if you buy from a non experienced shipper! Check our reviews! Serial number is 5S300253. Please see photos for condition.