Rare D.W. Daughaday “Model 1 Improved” Antique Platen Press For Sale

This is an exceptionally early and scarce D.W. Daughaday & Co. “Model 1 Improved” platen printing press, manufactured in Philadelphia in the late 1800s. Daughaday presses are among the rarest surviving American tabletop presses, predating both the Kelsey Excelsior and Golding Official lines and built with far heavier cast-iron construction.

The press features its original cast markings:

“MODEL 1 IMPROVED” on the side frame

“D.W. DAUGHADAY & CO., MANUF’RS, PHILA. PA.” on the rear arch

These early Daughaday presses rarely appear on the open market, and complete examples are sought after by collectors, museums, and letterpress practitioners.

Why This Press Is Valuable

• Scarce maker – Far less common than Kelsey or Golding

• Heavy early casting – Thicker iron and ornate Victorian form

• High restoration potential – Ideal candidate for a museum-grade rebuild

• Correct ink disc present – Often missing on surviving examples

Condition

• Structurally solid

• Moves through its range

• Ink disc intact

• Visible old repairs on several joints (typical for 19th-century presses)

• Needs cleaning, lubrication, and restoration

• Sold as shown

This is an excellent foundation for a professional restoration, or a fantastic display piece with strong historical presence.

Dimensions / Weight

Approx. 130-150 lbs

Very heavy early casting

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ITEM SPECIFICS

• Brand: D.W. Daughaday & Co.

• Model: Model 1 Improved

• Type: Platen Printing Press

• Operation: Hand-lever

• Material: Cast Iron

• Vintage: Yes

• Era: Late 1800s

• Country/Region of Manufacture: United States

• Condition: Used – for restoration

• Featured Refinements: Antique Letterpress Press

Please look at the pictures very closely as they are representative of the condition and part of the description and ask any questions before buying. Thank you for looking.

Check uship.com for shipping options from 02359. New England delivery by me is possible for a reasonable fee.