The question of what treasures may lie within the typewriters of famous personalities is an intriguing one. A fascinating collection of typewriters once owned by the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Shirley Temple, Andy Rooney, and even the Unabomber is scheduled to be auctioned, offering an unprecedented opportunity to own a piece of historical significance.

Renowned collector, Steve Soboroff, has had the privilege of accessing these historic machines. In 2011, when he acquired Joe DiMaggio’s old typewriter, he made the unexpected discovery of cut-up shards of the baseball legend’s expired bank card concealed under the keys. Soboroff also found childhood photos of Ernest Hemingway tucked away in the writer’s 1926 Underwood Standard Portable. In addition to Hemingway’s typewriter, Soboroff has also acquired machines previously owned by influential figures such as Maya Angelou, Tennessee Williams, John Lennon, and Shirley Temple.

During a recent video call, Soboroff expressed his sentiment about parting with these invaluable possessions, saying, “These are really hard for me to give up.” The allure of owning a typing relic with such extraordinary provenance is undoubtedly alluring. However, the practicality of using an antique typewriter in today’s digital age is another matter altogether.

The romanticism of owning and using a historical artifact such as Hemingway’s typewriter is undeniable, and it may appeal to avid collectors and enthusiasts alike. Nonetheless, the conveniences offered by contemporary technology, such as word processing software and digital keyboards, may ultimately outweigh the nostalgic appeal of a traditional typewriter.

In the end, the decision of whether to use Hemingway’s typewriter or simply cherish it as a coveted collector’s item is a matter of personal preference. Regardless, the opportunity to own a piece of literary history is an enticing prospect for collectors and enthusiasts.