This one is serial number 1608039, but serial numbers on these Underwoods are useless for dating.

Underwood Noiseless 77

When I found this typewriter, it had obviously been in a wet place – a basement perhaps? The leatherette on the case is pulling away in many places.  The typewriter itself had numerous small rust spots underneath.  Thankfully I found it before the rusting had done real damage.

The primary problem was the drawstring (the string that pulls the carriage along as you type) had broken.  It’s always a problem to find a suitable material. Some folks have used the cords from mini-blinds, some use nylon cord, and some have even suggested using gut violin strings.  On this machine I’ve tried a non-stretch fishing line.  Only use will determine if it holds to it’s non-stretch claim.