Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Lane Cedar Chest

Advertisement


Question
I have a Lane cedar chest I inherited, and don't know if it is worth taking up space in my house (I HATE the smell inside, but hate to get rid of it if it is truly worth something)
The style number from the bottom is 481009x, and the serial number is 430201.  What can you tell me about it?  (Or is there a reference book you would recommend?)
The top is in pretty rough shape, and the whole thing could stand to be refinished .  Any idea on ballpark values of these things?

Answer
Hi Kim
Nice to hear from you.
I would charge about $175.00 to refinish an item like this if its restorable. Yours sounds like it needs help.
I cannot tell you anything from the numbers you gave, but here are 2 sites to look at a few chests.
They are certainly not highly valuable from what I see, but as with all older furniture, condition and age are what matters.

http://search.rubylane.com/collectibles?ss=%22Lane+cedar+chest%22&samedb=1&style...

http://www.kaleden.com/search/search_results.jsp

Hope this helps Kim
Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.