Determining the Value of a Lane Cedar Chest
Age
The value of your Lane cedar chest will depend on its age. Generally, the older a Lane cedar chest is, the higher its value. Lane cedar chests produced after 1940 are not as valuable as those produced in the 1920s and 1930s. Lane cedar chests are marked with a serial number. The serial number can be found on the back, bottom or inside of the chest. To determine the manufacturing date of your chest, contact Lane Company with the serial number.
Condition
Condition is a factor in determining the value of any piece of furniture. The value decreases with imperfections, such as scratches, water marks, weathering, mold or musty smells, chips, missing or loose veneer, alterations to the original design, paintings, and, in some cases, repairs or restoration. Original hardware is most desirable. If your Lane cedar chest has a lock, then its value increases only if you have a working key and if that key is original. Many Lane cedar chests were sold with documentation certificates, which also increases the value.
Market
Trends in home décor and design change regularly. Current trends will play a part in determining the value of your Lane cedar chest. If the market for a specific style of furniture is flat (not in demand), the value is decreased.
Appraisal
Do not pay a fee for a basic appraisal. Take pictures and measurements of your Lane cedar chest and note any damages. Contact a local auction house or antique furniture dealer for an appraisal without taking the chest with you. You may even be able to obtain a general appraisal over the phone. You can also search an online auction site such as eBay for chests resembling yours to discover their selling price.
Tags: Lane cedar, cedar chest, your Lane, your Lane cedar, cedar chests
