Primary keyword: price antique furniture
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1. Quick intro
Need to price antique furniture? Old pieces can be worth a lot—or a little—depending on age, maker, and story. This guide shows simple steps to spot value, use free tools, and know when to hire a pro. You will also see how listing on Asherfield turns a fair value into fast cash.
2. What makes an antique valuable?
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Age | Furniture over 100 years old is “antique.” Older often means rarer. Value My Stuff |
| Maker marks | Stamps or labels prove famous makers and raise price. Real Simple |
| Materials | Solid oak or walnut beats plywood. |
| Design & rarity | Iconic styles (Chippendale, Arts & Crafts) pull big bids. |
| Condition | Original finish and light wear sell best; heavy damage cuts price. |
| Provenance | A record of owners or use adds value. PrestigeEstate Services Inc. |
For more detailed tips on identifying valuable features, see our guide on how to spot valuable used furniture (even if you’re not an expert).
3. Step-by-step valuation
Step 1: confirm it is an antique
Check style guides or maker dates. Over 100 years? It counts.
Step 2: find the maker
Look under drawers or along back rails for stamps, brands, or metal tags. Write them down.
Step 3: inspect condition
Take bright photos. Note chips, cracks, or repairs. Leave original finish if you can—refinishing often lowers value. laurelcrown.com
Step 4: check sold prices
Search auction sites, price-guide books, or recent Asherfield sales for similar pieces. LoveToKnow
Step 5: use a free calculator
Try the Antique Furniture Value Calculator online. Enter age, rarity, and condition to get a ballpark number. Calculator Academy
Want more tools? See our used furniture value calculator hub.
Step 6: call a certified appraiser when needed
If your estimate tops $1,000—or the piece is rare—hire a pro. Find one through the Appraisers Association of America or ASA. Appraisers Association of Americawww.appraisers.org
A written report costs $100–$300 and is useful for insurance or big sales.
4. Should you refinish an antique?
- Light clean-ups are fine (dust, mild soap).
- Full sanding and modern paint can cut value by 15% or more. laurelcrown.com
- Repair only if the damage stops safe use.
When unsure, ask an appraiser first.
For expert advice on preserving and caring for antique furniture, consult the Smithsonian’s guide to heirloom furniture.
5. Tips to boost selling price
- Tell the story. Share maker, age, and any family history.
- Stage clear photos. Natural light, multiple angles.
- Offer delivery on Asherfield; buyers pay more for convenience.
- Set a firm yet fair price. Use your calculator number, then add up to 10 % for strong demand styles.
6. FAQs
Is antique the same as vintage?
Antique is 100 + years old; vintage is 20–100 years.
Does a small crack ruin value?
Minor cracks lower value a little; large breaks drop it a lot.
Can I insure antique furniture?
Yes—use a certified appraisal for the policy.
Where can I get free price info?
Check online sold listings, price guides, and the free calculator linked above.
What if my piece is a reproduction?
It may still sell, but at modern-furniture prices.
How fast do antiques sell?
Unique pieces can take weeks; offering delivery on Asherfield speeds sales.
7. Ready to sell?
Now you know the value. List your antique on Asherfield for free. Serious local buyers pay a 15% deposit, you keep 85% at pickup, and your piece finds a new home without haggle or heavy fees.
Price it smart, post it today, and enjoy the payoff!
