15th Jul, 2025 11:00
Photographs, Optical Toys & Science
Type II Curta Calculator
Liechtenstein, dated from the serial number 505052 to December 1954, plate to the base reads 'System Curt Herzstark Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina Ltd Mauren No 505052, in the original metal can
Condition: cosmetically the calculator is good with wear to the tops of the knurled grip, the selector keys, and around the base, wear to the black finishe below the clearing lever, base foam in the can has not stuck to the base of the calculator, mechanically all good and smooth, clearing lever a liile loose, case with scratches and wear.
The Curta Calculator is a unique mechanical calculator, invented by Curt Herzstark in the 1940s. Herzstark, an Austrian engineer, conceived the idea in the 1930s and refined it while he was detained in the Buchenwald concentration camp during World War II. His design was inspired by his desire to create the smallest, most portable calculator possible. Remarkably, Herzstark's work on the calculator was encouraged by camp authorities, who saw its potential utility for the Nazi war effort.
After the war, Herzstark finalized his design, and production began in Liechtenstein in 1948. The Curta became known for its compact, cylindrical shape, which housed a sophisticated set of gears and levers capable of performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Operated by turning a small crank, the Curta was popular among engineers, scientists, and rally car navigators until electronic calculators emerged in the 1970s.
Sold for £500
Result including buyers premium
Liechtenstein, dated from the serial number 505052 to December 1954, plate to the base reads 'System Curt Herzstark Made in Liechtenstein, by Contina Ltd Mauren No 505052, in the original metal can
Condition: cosmetically the calculator is good with wear to the tops of the knurled grip, the selector keys, and around the base, wear to the black finishe below the clearing lever, base foam in the can has not stuck to the base of the calculator, mechanically all good and smooth, clearing lever a liile loose, case with scratches and wear.
The Curta Calculator is a unique mechanical calculator, invented by Curt Herzstark in the 1940s. Herzstark, an Austrian engineer, conceived the idea in the 1930s and refined it while he was detained in the Buchenwald concentration camp during World War II. His design was inspired by his desire to create the smallest, most portable calculator possible. Remarkably, Herzstark's work on the calculator was encouraged by camp authorities, who saw its potential utility for the Nazi war effort.
After the war, Herzstark finalized his design, and production began in Liechtenstein in 1948. The Curta became known for its compact, cylindrical shape, which housed a sophisticated set of gears and levers capable of performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Operated by turning a small crank, the Curta was popular among engineers, scientists, and rally car navigators until electronic calculators emerged in the 1970s.
Auction: Photographs, Optical Toys & Science, 15th Jul, 2025
