Description
IBM Model M 59G7980 Buckling Spring AT Keyboard 5-Pin DIN 101-Key 1993 Lexmark
The IBM Model M 59G7980 is a full-size 101-key AT keyboard built on IBM's legendary buckling spring mechanism, manufactured by Lexmark International for IBM in August 1993. Each keystroke activates a coiled spring that buckles under finger pressure to actuate a capacitive sheet beneath — producing the crisp, tactile snap and audible click the Model M is famous for. This example connects via a 5-pin DIN (AT) plug with an attached coiled cable.
Specifications & What's Included
- Part Number: 59G7980
- Model: IBM Model M
- Manufactured by: Lexmark International for IBM
- Manufacture Date: August 4, 1993
- Plt. No.: L1
- Switch Type: Buckling spring (capacitive)
- Keys: 101-key full-size ANSI layout
- Connector: 5-pin DIN (AT interface)
- Cable: Attached coiled cable
- Color: Beige / cream
- Made in USA
- Includes: Keyboard with coiled cable only — no DIN-to-PS/2 adapter included
Applications
The IBM Model M is one of the most historically significant keyboards ever produced, originally designed for IBM PC AT and PS/2 systems in the mid-1980s and manufactured continuously through the 1990s. The buckling spring mechanism — patented by IBM — delivers a typing feel and audible feedback that typists and programmers still actively seek out today, decades after production. This 59G7980 variant was made by Lexmark after IBM spun off its keyboard manufacturing operations, and carries the same build quality as earlier IBM-badged examples. With a DIN-to-PS/2 adapter (widely available and inexpensive), this keyboard works with any PS/2-equipped PC; with a further USB adapter it can be used on modern systems. Model M keyboards remain in high demand among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, touch typists, writers, and retro computing collectors. They are also commonly used in industrial and legacy computing environments where AT or PS/2 input devices are still in service.
This IBM Model M 59G7980 buckling spring AT keyboard has been inspected and appears to be in good used condition. The keycaps and case show light yellowing typical of keyboards from this era, and there is minor surface wear consistent with age and previous use. The 5-pin DIN connector shows some oxidation as seen in the photos, which is normal for a keyboard manufactured in August 1993. All 101 keys are present. Please review our full photo set for a detailed look at the cosmetic condition, and contact us with any questions before purchasing.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
IBM |
Model: |
Model M |
MPN: |
59G7980 |
Type: |
AT Mechanical Keyboard |
SKU: |
18848 |
Manufacturer: |
Lexmark International |
Switch Type: |
Buckling Spring |
Connector Type: |
5-Pin DIN (AT) |
Number of Keys: |
101 |
Layout: |
Full Size / 101-Key ANSI |
Keyboard Interface: |
AT (5-Pin DIN) |
Color: |
Beige / Cream |
Cable Type: |
Coiled Detachable |
Manufacture Date: |
August 4, 1993 |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
United States |
Platform: |
IBM PC AT, IBM PS/2 (with adapter), PC/XT/AT-compatible |
Plt. No.: |
L1 |
ID No.: |
0008316 |
Seller Notes: |
Keyboard with attached coiled cable only — no adapter included. |
Condition Notes: |
This IBM Model M 59G7980 buckling spring AT keyboard is in good used condition with light yellowing and minor wear typical of its 1993 manufacture date. All 101 keys present. 5-pin DIN connector shows minor oxidation. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |