How to Value an Antique Table Lamp

There is a little bit of treasure hunter in all of us and you never know what you might have in an old table lamp. Maybe it is worth a bundle or just pretty. Antique dealers and experts use basic criteria to determine the historical and monetary value of each piece they examine. Learn how to value an antique table lamp and see if it’s worth further evaluation from a dealer.

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   1. Consider contacting the original owner of the lamp if you know who they are. Ask them where they purchased it from and if they know anything about the lamp. Sometimes grandparents give antiques to their children and grand children as a gift thinking it is a real antique and it just might be. Many times people also find old pieces when cleaning out an attic or basement that really can be worth quite a bit in good condition.
   
   
   2. Plug the table lamp into an electrical socket to see if it works. You may need to put a new bulb in the lamp socket in case it is an old bulb that does not work. Working lamps are always worth more than one that does not function.
   
   
   3. Remove the lamp from the power outlet and examine your lamp for signs it could be old and worth some money. Older lamps may have buttons, knobs or detailed designs made of wood or brass. Metal portions will probably be dull looking, scratched and oxidized. Shades from a truly old lamp will be brittle and feel old with faded fabric colors, as well as having a musty smell. Use a magnifying glass to look for cracks or repairs. Even if the shade is in poor condition, it still could be worth some money.
   
   
   4. Examine the table lamp for signs that it is not as old as you had hoped or some parts may have been repaired with newer parts. You could have a really old lamp that has been repaired to make it work or one that has a new lampshade with the original pedestal. These are generally worth less depending upon the condition. Check the lamp for a modern on/off switch or a dimmer. Plugs made with a polarized prong and plastic parts also indicate a new lamp.
   
   
   5. Turn the lamp over and examine the base for information about the lamp manufacturer. This could be impregnated or stamped into the wood. It may also be under a felt backing on the bottom of the lamp. Make sure you do not damage the lamp while looking for the name. Photograph or write down any name, numbers or other information.
   
   
   6. Research the manufacturer on the Internet. There are several guides, antique books and forums where you can pursue further information about what might be considered an antique table lamp. Once you establish the lamp is potentially valuable, you can judge the condition to determine the value. If it looks promising, take it to an antique dealer.