I bought this typewriter from a fellow collector--it is a Cole-Steel Collegiate, made in 1960. According to period advertising, this model was sold for $49.79 by S.S. Kresge, which later became Kmart. Mechanically it is identical to the Cole-Steel portable; the only differences are the ribbon cover (which is raised on this model), and the lack of a touch selector.
According to Kresge's advertising, the Collegiate portable offered (quoted from the ad):
- Completely cadmium plated mechanism throughout. Compare with ordinary black finish.
- Firm, solid chrome plated bars and metal fittings. Compare with other lightweight fittings
- Only 3 1/2 inches high. We believe this is the most compact of ALL portables.
- With Extra keys. Keyboard includes all standard plus several extra keys often not found on other portables.
- Lightweight Aluminum frame.
- Easy to read standard pica type
- Dow Chemical Styron Case
- Free picture manual of instructions
Also has left and right quick set margins, carriage centering device, automatic ribbon reverse, positive paper feed.
(Reprinted from the Altoona (PA) Mirror, 12/8/1960
