Expert: Eileen Cronk - 1/8/2006

Question
I just inherited a Lane cedar chest from my husbands grandma.  It's two levels with 10"-12" legs.  The legs are not ornate at all,; very plain and rather 50ish or early 60ish looking. It might be maple.  The shorter side has drawers, the taller side opens up with very aromatic cedar.  There is a lock that falls out, but locks when the chest is closed even if the lock is gone...so it locks automatically.  The key is missing, although there is an envelope inside for it.  The chest says its airtight, so I'm sure it's dangerous to have with kids.  How do i go about finding a value for this item and selling it.  I have no experience with this type of thing.  I don't want to keep it since we are expecting a new baby anytime ans I see potential for hazard.
Thank you for anyinfo you can provide.

Beth

Answer
Hi Beth
Nice to hear from you.
Beth before you do anything else, get the locking device off that chest. Its a death trap.
And please never sell it with it on.
Its easily removed.
As to value, in immaculate shape a chest like this would get $100.00 - $150.00 at auction in my neck of the woods.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen