My Experience With A Vintage Lane Cedar Chest And Its Value

My Experience With A Vintage Lane Cedar Chest And Its Value

As a lover of vintage furniture, I stumbled upon a beautiful Lane Cedar Chest at a local thrift store. It was in excellent condition, and I knew I had to have it. After purchasing it, I did some research on its value and was pleasantly surprised to learn that it was worth much more than what I paid for it.

What is a Lane Cedar Chest?

A Lane Cedar Chest is a type of storage chest made by the Lane Furniture Company. These chests were popular in the mid-20th century and were often given as gifts to young women as a place to store their treasured belongings. The cedar wood used to make the chest is known to repel moths and other insects, making it ideal for storing linens and clothing.

What is the Value of a Vintage Lane Cedar Chest?

The value of a vintage Lane Cedar Chest can vary depending on several factors, including its age, condition, and rarity. Chests from the 1940s and 1950s tend to be the most valuable, and those in excellent condition with original hardware can fetch anywhere from $300 to $1000 or more.

Top 10 Tips for Assessing the Value of a Vintage Lane Cedar Chest

1. Check the chest for a serial number, which can help determine its age and authenticity.
2. Look for original hardware, including locks, hinges, and handles.
3. Check the condition of the cedar wood, which should be free from cracks and splits.
4. Research the Lane Furniture Company’s history and production to determine the rarity of the chest.
5. Compare prices of similar chests sold at auctions or online marketplaces.
6. Consider hiring a professional appraiser for a more accurate valuation.
7. Take good quality photos of the chest to showcase its features and condition.
8. Market the chest to vintage furniture collectors and enthusiasts.
9. Be patient when selling the chest, as it may take time to find the right buyer.
10. Keep the chest in good condition to maintain its value.

Pros and Cons of Investing in a Vintage Lane Cedar Chest

Pros:

• High potential for appreciation in value over time.
• Beautiful and functional piece of furniture for storage.
• Historical and sentimental value as a family heirloom or vintage collectible.

Cons:

• Can be costly to purchase and restore if in poor condition.
• May take time to find a buyer willing to pay the desired price.
• Requires proper care and maintenance to preserve its value.

My Personal Review and Suggestion on Investing in a Vintage Lane Cedar Chest

Based on my experience, investing in a vintage Lane Cedar Chest can be a worthwhile decision for collectors and enthusiasts. Not only is it a beautiful and functional piece of furniture, but it also has the potential for appreciation in value over time. However, it’s important to carefully assess the chest’s condition, rarity, and value before making a purchase.

FAQs

Q: Is it safe to store clothing and linens in a Lane Cedar Chest?

A: Yes, the cedar wood used in Lane Cedar Chests is known to repel moths and other insects, making it ideal for storing clothing and linens.

Q: Can I restore a vintage Lane Cedar Chest myself?

A: It is possible to restore a vintage Lane Cedar Chest yourself, but it’s important to proceed with caution to avoid damaging the chest. Consider hiring a professional to help with restoration if you’re unsure of your abilities.

Q: How can I tell if a vintage Lane Cedar Chest is authentic?

A: Look for a serial number on the chest, which can help determine its authenticity and age. Also, check for original hardware and markings that indicate it was made by Lane Furniture Company.