
Selling a cedar chest can be a great way to declutter your home and make some extra cash, but it's essential to consider its value before making a decision. The age of the cedar chest is a significant factor, with older chests often being more valuable due to their rarity and historical significance.
The condition of the chest is also crucial, with minor scratches and dents not affecting its value as much as major damage or restoration. For example, a chest with a broken lid may be more valuable than one with a damaged drawer.
A cedar chest's original price tag can also impact its resale value, with higher-priced chests commanding higher prices due to their perceived value and craftsmanship. In some cases, the original price tag can even be a selling point for potential buyers.
The cedar chest's overall condition, including its finish, hardware, and any repairs or restorations, will also impact its value.
Determine Value
To determine the value of your cedar chest, start by knowing its age. The serial number on your chest can reveal its production date, and reading the numbers backward will give you the month, day, and year it was made.
Lane cedar chests made between 1912 and 1936 will have a "Made by Lane in Altavista, VA" logo, so look for this branding if your chest falls within this time frame.
The value of your cedar chest increases with age, but it also depends heavily on the condition of the piece. Keep an eye out for any scratches, cracks, or damage, and make sure to use proper methods to clean cedar furniture if it needs freshening up.
If your chest has seen its share of better days, there are plenty of ways to refurbish your wood furniture. Some experts say it's essential for the chest to have its original cedar smell, but you can always refresh with cedar chips.
Related reading: Value of a Lane Cedar Chest
The interior size of every Lane cedar chest offered copious amounts of storage, so regardless of the exact dimensions, you can be sure it has plenty of room for your belongings.
The value of Lane cedar chests can vary greatly, with some selling for as little as $100 and others for up to $150. However, the most recent sale of a similar chest was in 2018, so keep in mind that the market value can fluctuate over time.
To get a better idea of the value of your cedar chest, research past sales and look for similar pieces that have been sold. You can also list your chest on local venues like Craigslist, OfferUp, or Facebook Marketplace to attract potential buyers.
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About Antiques: Painting
Painting a cedar chest can be a tricky decision, especially if you're considering its value. Painting the cedar wood may be very difficult to completely remove in the future.
The cedar wood in old cedar chests like yours loses its toxicity to pests as it ages, making it a special and unique piece of furniture. Unfortunately, modern research suggests that new cedar chests may be toxic for a while.
If you decide to paint your cedar chest, its value could fall dramatically, from $150 to $200, to a much lower amount.
Painting an old piece of furniture like a cedar chest can be a mistake, as it can reduce a valuable item to a worthless pile of lumber.
Take a look at this: Cedar Chest Antique
Assessment Tools
When evaluating the value of a cedar chest, several assessment tools can be used to determine its authenticity and condition.
A cedar chest's original price tag can be a good indicator of its value, with some antique chests selling for thousands of dollars.
A cedar chest's construction quality, including the type of wood used and the craftsmanship, can also impact its value.
Assess Its Condition

Assessing the condition of an item is crucial to determining its value. Scratches and worn cedar can significantly decrease a chest's value.
If a chest has been repainted or re-stained, its value will likely take a hit. After-market adjustments can also lower its worth.
Missing hardware, except for the lock, is another factor to consider. Some special models may have original upholstery, which can impact its value.
A chest in pristine condition will generally be more valuable than one with damage or modifications.
Finding the Murphy?
To find a Murphy cedar chest, consider searching online marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist, where people often list vintage and antique furniture for sale.
The value of a Murphy cedar chest can be determined by its age, condition, and demand. Antique and vintage furniture has not only sentimental value, but sometimes monetary value as well.
Look for any labels or stamps on the chest that may indicate its age or origin. This information can be a major factor in determining its value.
You can also try visiting local antique stores or flea markets, where you may be able to find a Murphy cedar chest at a reasonable price.
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Vintage Vinyl Information
Identifying the manufacturer of a vintage vinyl covered cedar chest can be a crucial step in determining its value. This can help you narrow down your search and potentially uncover more information about the piece.
Careful examination of the piece is often required to gather information on vintage furniture. Researching the manufacturer can help move your task along.
Gathering information on vintage furniture can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it requires patience and attention to detail.
If you can identify the manufacturer, you can start looking for specific details about the piece, such as its age, condition, and original price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with an old cedar chest?
Consider repurposing an old cedar chest as a storage unit in a child's room, such as a toy chest, or in a family room for storing board games and coffee table essentials. Its rustic charm can add a cozy touch to any room.
Why are cedar chests so expensive?
Cedar chests are expensive due to their exceptional durability and resistance to decay, making them a long-lasting investment for storing family heirlooms. This unique quality also contributes to their timeless beauty and value.
How can you tell if a cedar chest is antique?
Check for a maker's stamp or label with a printed date, or research the manufacturer's production years to determine if your cedar chest is an antique. If you can't find a date, online resources can help you narrow down the age of your cedar chest.
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