As I was rummaging through my grandma’s basement the other day I came across a dusty old box filled with antique copper pots. At first glance, they didn’t seem like anything special – just some tarnished old cookware. But upon closer inspection I started wondering – are these old copper pots actually worth anything?
This sent me down an internet rabbit hole researching antique copper pans. And I discovered that some vintage copper cookware can be quite valuable to collectors and cooking enthusiasts. While not every old pot has monetary value certain qualities can make copper pans rare sought-after items.
So how do you know if your inherited or yard sale copper pots have hidden worth? Here are some tips I learned for evaluating antique copper pan value:
Check Condition First
An antique’s condition is the number one factor affecting its value. Pristine or near-perfect vintage copper pans can sell for top dollar. But heavily corroded and damaged hand-me-down pots often only hold scrap value for their raw copper content.
Assess each pan carefully looking for dents, cracks, repairs, and how much restoration work it would need to be functional or displayable. Ideally, you want old copper pans showing no major defects and ready for use or decor.
Focus on Maker Marks
Look closely all over each pan for any engraved logos, words, or symbols. Maker’s marks link pieces to well-known copper companies from the 19th and 20th centuries. Brands like Mauviel, Dehillerin, or Revere Ware carry collector cachet. Signed copper pans attract higher offers than unmarked generic cookware.
Check Thickness
Copper’s value increases along with its thickness and durability. 1-2 mm thin pans have lower worth. Ideal vintage copper thickness is 2.5 mm and up. Thick solid walls efficiently conduct heat, making antique pans still practical for cooking.
Note Unique Details
Ornate decorative handles, rare sizes like giant stockpots, unusual shapes, personalized engraved designs – these details can make a copper pan more valuable and collectible. Simple common forms like plain round pots are less special.
Consider Rarity
Is a pan one-of-a-kind or part of a hard to find set? Unique items like limited editions or custom monogrammed pots attract more collector competition. Mass produced pots lack distinctiveness. Rare pieces, even with flaws, can out-value common pans in perfect condition.
Focus on Age
Copper pots from the early to mid 1900s and older were painstakingly hand-hammered. Earlier pieces exhibit finer craftsmanship than modern machine-made cookware. Research manufacturing eras based on logos, design details, and techniques.
Evaluate Usability
Pans in excellent cooking condition will sell for more than those needing repairs. Collectors want display pieces requiring no work. Similarly, pots needing extensive restoration only hold scrap value unless exceptionally rare. Evaluate what’s needed to make a pan functional.
Consider Local Interests
Location matters. German copper may be a tougher sell than classic French pans where you live. Compare your pots to what’s hot in your area. Urban markets favor vintage French copper. Rural regions embrace classic American brands like Revere Ware.
Research Prices Realistically
Avoid inflated expectations. Search current selling prices for comparable vintage pieces to yours in the same condition. Consider size, details, makers, and don’t assume your old hand-me-downs are automatically valuable. Stay realistic.
Know the Best Places to Sell
Online sites like eBay provide access to copper collectors worldwide. Local antique malls and auctions also attract buyers. Where you sell affects price. Research options for getting optimal value.
So while not every old copper pot is a prize find, uncommon pieces in excellent condition bearing collectible details and maker’s marks can be valuable antiquities worth hundreds. Follow these tips to discover if your copper has hidden worth waiting to be uncovered.
19th Century English Other Antique Copper PotMaterials
Copper, Iron, Wrought Iron
Copper Cookware 101
FAQ
How do I know if my copper pots are antique?
Today’s modern copper cookware is lined with stainless steel, but antique copper pots will nearly always be lined with tin (occasionally nickel or silver). From a cook’s perspective, tin is fantastic as it does not react to anything and is almost completely non-stick, compared to stainless steel.
Is vintage copper worth anything?
When you take the quality, authenticity, and year produced into consideration, different vintage copper items could be extremely valuable.
What is the difference between copper and antique copper?
Copper made before World War II is antique. Copper made after World War II and up to the year 2000 or so is vintage. Copper made after 2000 up to the present day is modern.
Are copper pots 100% copper?
However, copper cookware is almost never just copper. This is because you cannot cook safely in unlined copper pots. Nowadays, most copper cookware is stainless-steel lined, which is much more durable than traditional tin-lined copper.
How much does an antique copper pot cost?
Often, antique copper pots and pans that are in excellent shape (meaning no scratches, damage, lining or lacquer issues, and feature lids or tops), come at a price between 200 and 300 USD. There are also high-end antique copper pots available for online purchase that can cost up to 800 USD.
Which companies make copper antique pots?
Copper antique pots have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers. Gorham Manufacturing Company, Thos. Mills & Bro. and WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik are consistently popular companies that produce copper antique pots. How Much are Copper Antique Pots?
What should I look for when buying antique copper pots?
Always look for antique or new copper pots with regular iron or brass handles, preferably brass if you don’t want your cookware to be too hefty. Sometimes, simply because of dozens of years of use, antique copper pots are uneven and don’t have a good balance.
How much is a copper pot & pan worth?
However, the difficult thing is knowing whether the price attached is really the true value of the copper piece. Often, antique copper pots and pans that are in excellent shape (meaning no scratches, damage, lining or lacquer issues, and feature lids or tops), come at a price between 200 and 300 USD.
Do antique copper pots have handles?
Antique copper pots have handles that are made from brass, oftentimes. There are also copper pots with cast iron handles, but these are no good since they disrupt the weight distribution and make the pot tip over, especially when it’s empty.
Are old copper pots a problem?
Overall, it is too much hassle to deal with improper copper pots, especially if you’re planning to cook in them. Also, sometimes old, or antique copper pots look brand new. Don’t be alarmed by this because the owners have them usually lacquered to make them look more current and in better shape than they used to be.