Antique lamps, which are usually those at least 100 years old, vary widely in value. If you have an old lamp, either one recently inherited or purchased at a secondhand shop, you may be wondering how much it’s worth. Here are some clues to the value of antique lamps.

3 Factors That Affect the Value of Antique Lamps

1. Celebrated Makers

There are several companies whose lamps tend to be especially collectible, including lamps manufactured by Handel, Tiffany, and Edward Miller. Seals and markings on the underside of the base or elsewhere may indicate the maker. When you know the name of the manufacturer, you can perform a search to discover if their lamps tend to be valuable. Make sure the seal on yours matches those in any relevant photos.

2. Quality of Construction

If the base of your lamp is made of copper, brass, or another metal, it’s likely to be worth more than those made of plastic or a synthetic.

Some lamps are painted to look like metal. Find an inconspicuous spot on yours, and scratch the surface to see if any color comes off. If so, you’re likely dealing with a painted or plated piece.

3. Overall Condition

Broken or worn antiques aren’t as valuable as those in quality working condition. Identify any spots on your lamp that appear damaged or repaired. You may see cracks or evidence that pieces have been resecured with glue. You should also turn on the lamp on to ascertain operation. Condition issues don’t necessarily mean a lamp has no value, but they will drive the price down. Depending on the value, a dealer may recommend you seek repairs before selling a piece.

For antique appraisals, contact the professionals at Forsythe’s Antiques & Fine Art in Russellville, OH. Their dealers appraise and purchase home furnishings and collectibles, including furniture, fine art, jewelry, silver, and gold. This company’s expert appraisers will give you a fair price and educate you about the value of individual pieces or the contents of an entire estate. To reach them regarding lamps or other miscellaneous antiques, visit them online, or call (513) 791-2323 to reach a member of their appraisal staff.