Research and development of 2:17 type SmCo permanent magnets are reviewed. Considered are four magnets types : high temperature magnets, super-low temperature coefficient magnets, the radially oriented and multi-polar rings, high electricity insulation magnets. Manufacturing techniques described include: powder metallurgy (sintering), reverting-diffuse and quenching-bonding. The cellular microstructure was characterized, and the effects of components on microstructure were discussed. The coercivity mechanism over a wide temperature range was considered and directions for future research discussed.