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19th century farmhouse chest 1840-1880 era - $100 (Mashpee)
condition:
good
size / dimensions:
34x21x18
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Key traits visible in your photos:
• Wide plank construction (solid boards, not veneer)
• Lift-top lid made from multiple joined boards
• Simple molded base (bracket or ogee-style foot)
• Very plain exterior — built for use, not display
• Iron hinges with age-consistent oxidation
• Interior shows long-term use and patina
This was made to store:
• Blankets
• Clothing
• Household goods
• Farm or domestic items
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Era (age)
Circa 1840–1880
Here’s how we know:
• Board widths and grain indicate pre-industrial or early industrial milling
• No plywood or modern joinery
• Hardware style and placement are consistent with mid-19th century
• Wear patterns and oxidation look natural, not artificially aged
This places it firmly in the mid-19th century, making it a true antique (150+ years old).
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Wood & construction
• Likely pine or chestnut
• Hand-planed or early mill boards
• Simple butt-joint construction with nailed corners
• Finish appears original or very old (possibly milk paint originally, now worn)
⸻
Condition (important for value)
• Structurally sound
• Heavy surface wear (expected and acceptable)
• Lid is intact and functional
• No major breaks visible
Do not sand or refinish — the wear and patina are what give it value.
⸻
Value (realistic market)
These are desirable to:
• Primitive furniture collectors
• Farmhouse / rustic decorators
• Designers using authentic antiques
As-is value:
$400 – $700
Cleaned only (gentle cleaning, no refinishing):
$600 – $900
Over-restored / sanded:
Value can drop to $250–400
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What helps the value
• Authentic age
• Honest wear
• Good proportions
• Plain, early form (very desirable today)
What limits the value
• No carving or paint remaining
• Plain wood (not walnut or cherry)
• Local pickup only (shipping is expensive)
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Bottom line
• What it is: 19th-century farmhouse blanket chest
• Era: Circa 1840–1880
• Value: ~$500–800 in today’s market