The most valuable vintage furniture is rare. A unique carving motif, less common glass color, or otherwise atypical design may increase the value of your furniture. Similarly, a piece of furniture carved by a well-known manufacturer who made very few pieces in that style may fetch a higher auction price.

How old does a piece of furniture have to be to be considered an antique?

100 years old In the strictest sense, the difference between an antique and a vintage item is its age. Antiques are items which must be at least 100 years old. That means, as of the date of this posting, an antique item was made on or before April of 1918.

Does furniture have serial numbers?

Most items made will have a serial number on them, and this includes furniture. It can usually be found stamped, etched into, or on a paper label attached to the furniture piece. Serial numbers will often reveal the manufacturer, model number, or date that the furniture was made.

How do you know if something is worth money?

For most pieces, the value is determined by the rarity and the condition. If an item was mass produced, even if it has been billed as a collectable, it will be worth less than something that was produced in small quantities. Condition is also important. For most items, any imperfections will lessen the value.

How do I know if my sofa is Duncan Phyfe?

If your piece doesnt have a signature, there are other ways to confirm you have a Duncan Phyfe original. The most obvious way is with reliable documentation or provenance. Finding a 175-to-215-year-old bill of lading for the piece would be ideal.

How can you tell the brand of furniture?

Look for a metal or paper tag, a sticker or a stamp listing a brand name. This might be found on the underside of the table or one of the chairs. Check the braces at the corners of tables or chair seats, visible from beneath.

Does cut glass have any value?

American cut glass is a very valuable collectible on the antiques market. Values range based on quality, maker, condition, and pattern and many pieces regularly are worth $1,000 to $100,000.