Object Details
distributor
Commodore Business Machines, Inc.
maker
Bowmar/Ali
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a white case with black trim and metal keyboard, and an array of square black "Klixon" keys. Such keys have a design trademarked by Texas Instruments and make a distinctive click when pressed. In addition to ten digit and one decimal point key, the calculator has four keys for arithmetic functions. One serves as a total key for addition, another as a difference key for subtraction. The top of the keyboard has a constant switch, a clear entry key, and a red clear key. The on/off switch is below the keyboard. The text next to it reads: commodore (/) Minuteman 2.
The eight-digit red LED display is behind the keyboard. A cord for recharging the battery attaches at the back of the top. (This example has no cord.)
The back has four plastic feet. A metal plate there gives operating instructions. Text near the bottom reads: COMMODORE (/) MODEL MM-2 SER. NO. R216527 (/) SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA (/) MADE IN U.S.A.
This was one of the first models of a handheld calculator sold by Commodore. It was manufactured by Bowmar/Ali and is similar to the Bowmar 901B.
Compare 1986.0988.099 (the Commodore Minuteman 1) and 1988.0988.129 (the Bowmar 901B).
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 57.
New York Times, December 19, 1972, p. 26. Advertisement indicates that the Minuteman 2 had a regular price of $179, sale price of $92.
New York Times, February 13, 1973, p. 6. Minuteman 2 has a regular price of $179 and a sale price of $79.
Los Angeles Times, February 22, 1974, P. A2 – Commodore MM2 calculator listed as on sale for $69.95, marked down from an original price of $99.50.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
1972-1974
ID Number
1986.0988.098
catalog number
1986.0988.098
accession number
1986.0988
Object Name
electronic calculator
Other Terms
electronic calculator; Handheld
Physical Description
plastic (case; display cover; keys material)
glass (tube material)
metal (circuitry; screws; keyboard material)
Measurements
overall: 1 3/4 in x 3 1/2 in x 6 in; 4.445 cm x 8.89 cm x 15.24 cm
place made
United States
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Computers
Computers & Business Machines
Handheld Electronic Calculators
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_334512