Identify & Value Your Antique Baskets
Baskets serve a key role in many decorating styles, especially farmhouse. But telling the difference between new and antique baskets takes some special skill. I’m going to give you some tips you can use to learn how to identify and value your antique baskets.
Video: Identifying Antique Baskets
Basket History
Humans have constructed baskets out of twigs and grasses for centuries, using them to carry all manner of items: fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts, and more.
Depending upon which part of the world one lived in, other materials, like wood splint, bamboo, rushes, rattan, pine needles, corn husks, and other natural materials have all been used to create both beautiful and functional baskets.
Not surprisingly, artisans produced them in all kinds of eye-pleasing shapes and sizes named after their purpose or shape:
- Market
- Gathering
- Sewing
- Goose
- Egg
- Apple
- Melon (shape)
- Buttocks (shape)
- Fish trap
- Picnic
- Clothes hampers
- Cheese
Collectors may choose to focus on pieces from a particular region or in a certain shape or from a specific era, and even from one particular basket maker. The latter can often be identified by a signature, and sometimes a date, on the bottom of a piece.
What to Look for to Identify & Value Antique Baskets
1. COLOR
Painted: Antique painted baskets are highly sought after. Typically there will be at least light, if not heavy paint loss, but for most people, this adds to the beauty of the piece. Red, white, and mustard are the most common colors.
Oxidized: Unpainted antique baskets will typically have oxidized over time. This means that the color of the material used to create it will have darkened, as you can see in the ash splint basket above.
An especially unique feature of this basket lies in its square bottom that then proceeds to a round top. Only extremely experienced basket weavers are able to accomplish this with such perfection.
I’d value this 8″ high piece at $35-45.
2. CONSTRUCTION
Tight: Older baskets of quality tend to be tightly woven, unless intended for a specific use, like a cheese basket that would have openings to allow for draining off whey.
The willow basket above serves as a good example of a nice, tightly constructed basket. I’d value it at $35-40.
Imperfect: Because early baskets were handmade, you will notice occasional width differences in the fibers, reeds, or splints. Newer machine made examples, however, will not show this variation.
The bottom of the large hickory splint basket (above) reveals imperfectly sized splints, indicating that it is hand-made. I would value it at $55-65.
No Nails: Typically older, higher quality baskets are held together only with natural materials rather than with nails or staples.
For example, you will often come across newer (1940’s and 50’s) oak splint baskets with rims held in place with small nails, like the pie basket in the photo above (likely from the Shelton Basket Company). It sold a few years ago for $35.
Bound Rim: Rims bound with reed or splint also indicate quality, particularly when double-wrapped. Above you see a double-wrapped or “X” rim on this gorgeous ash splint market basket that sold recently for $75.
3. HANDLES
Carved: Handles carved from solid wood provide another sign of quality, particularly those that have a handle grip (as seen above). You will often find tool marks on such handles–another clue that it’s handmade.
Expertly Fitted: Handles tightly bound into the body of the basket and with a notch holding it firmly in place indicate a maker with high standards.
When you lift the basket by the handle, the notch prevents it from sliding out. Above you see an example of an expertly carved handle with a perfectly shaped notch.
A Closer Look at a Newer Basket
At first glance this oak splint basket appears to have some potential; however, it’s noticeably missing the oxidation that would indicate age.
Every part of a well-made antique basket will be beautifully finished. This basket has a poorly executed swing handle. Notice that neither the bow holding the end of the handle, nor the hole at the end of the handle, are properly sanded.
Splints that have a “hairy” affect almost always indicates newer materials. Older baskets will never appear “hairy” either because the original materials were better prepared or because they have worn off. You can see signs of hairiness on the bottom of this basket.
The tag on the bottom indicating manufacture in China provides the final nail in the coffin on this basket!
Because of it’s attractive shape and otherwise tight construction, it’s not a bad buy for a few dollars. Use it to decorate your home or sell it at a flea market for $10 and you’ve made a fair investment.
How to Learn More About Antique Baskets
1. Examine examples in person
The best way to learn more about vintage and antique baskets is to see them in person. Visit quality antique shops where you’ll be able to hold pieces in your hands and examine them closely. Read the tags and learn from knowledgeable dealers.
2. Check out these related blog posts
I’ve written a handful of articles on the topic of basket that will add to your knowledge base:
3. Invest in books on the topic
[This post contains an affiliate links to a products that I have reviewed on Amazon that I think will help you grow in your knowledge of antique baskets. If you make a purchase, I will receive a commission. For that, I thank you in advance!]
- Collecting Traditional American Baskets, Gloria Teleki
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Final Thoughts
I hope these tips on how to determine whether your basket(s) have some age and value help you as you continue to collect and/or sell these handsome collectibles. Happy hunting!
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I’d love it if you’d pin me 🙂
Thanks Diana,
great info as always
You’re welcome Nancy!
Diana,
I have an old basket with a swing handle that has the letter B in a circle on the bottom. Can you give me insight?
Melinda
Unfortunately I’m not familiar with that mark Melinda. Best of luck getting your answer!
Hello,
I just discovered your website while searching for information about a large basket I have.
I believe the “B” stamp is from Baskerville, now closed but formerly located in Putney, VT. I have an ash splint basket with the same mark.
I hope that helps!
Thanks so much!
You’re welcome Steve 🙂
Great info. I wish I could find cheap OLD baskets. I found 3 new ones this week; we make gift baskets to raffle off at a convention in August. NOW to collect other stuff to go into them. It’ll be a great get together with friends to put them together. Got the Easter grass 70% off at Michaels! Al bought me a long narrow wooden sign for Mother’s Day: “Happiness is an empty basket.” Seldom empty around here!
You’ve always got a project going don’t you?!! I just know there are some beautiful Maine baskets out there waiting for you to find Kathy 🙂 Here’s hoping…
Kathy, wow! That would be great to not-only buy your Gift Baskets but to also find some great vintage / possibly antique baskets too! If you had antique ones particularly nice, it’s almost like you should have an Auction of them at your Function! Love this 😊🧺
Thanks for the info!
Ive been finding quite a few handmade 1980s and 70s baskets lately which are signed… any value there?
I’ve not dealt with any baskets from that era Brittany but I’m guessing if they have a good look (like some of the ones in this post) that they would sell, if priced correctly (lower than antique versions). Best way to find out is test the market with one or two that you pick up for very little. Let us know how it goes!
Diana, Thank You for a great article! You are awesome, “Adirondack Girl At Heart!” I started picking up baskets a while ago, whenever I’d see one that “looked” old and was constructed nicely, etc. Not knowing anything really!
I just bought any cheaply-priced that “just looked / felt right.” Once, at this local indoor flea market (which sadly has closed recently after a great run of years), I was looking through this older man’s stand / area. Underneath the one section of his tables, was a large old basket with handle and painted blue (over white originally, I noticed later.) It’s a splint basket and very well-constructed, it’s always been one of my favorites.
It was full of “junk” like maybe from a garage or cellar. I asked the man how much for just the basket. To my surprise, he held up his index finger, “$1.” So I bought it. I carefully placed the contents where another person would see the items. It is larger-sized with a handle, I think it’s a gathering basket or market basket (?) rectangular shape with rounded corners. Maybe 15” long X 8 or 9” wide X 4” high approximately. Nice wood bow (a flattened arch ) handle. Reinforced handle. I don’t know, I can picture maybe a lady gathering long-stemmed flowers with it. (By-the-way, see my description has some terms and descriptions that I learned since? Some from YOU!) Thanks again for a great website loaded with great information!!
Dan, I love your enthusiasm for old baskets!! I feel much the same. It makes me so happy to hear that my resources have helped you make good purchases (and use “correct” terminology!). What an amazing deal you go on your gathering/market basket–$1? That’s crazy. Here’s to making more remarkable discoveries 🙂
Your article here is one of the best I’ve ever seen. To say nothing of your other posts and resources. Thank you so much for sharing everything. Love your site! I was just thinking, when we’re looking for old baskets, one sign of vg vintage and antique baskets are their survival itself. It seems that the newer ones many-times are beginning to fall apart. The machine made ones. I’m sure you’ve seen this. They will have damage, broken splints, cracks etc. The old ones (especially antique) will have been made, like you’ve mentioned here and elsewhere, by skilled people. They carefully gathered and chose the “right” splints, “wicker” pieces (which were processed by these people in certain specific ways.) They may have soaked tree wood sections then split and peeled splints, drying them out later, all of this. Then the tight weaving and reinforcements. This is generally true for any antique, and old vintage items. If they are still around for us to discover, and pass other tests, chances are they are old. Thank You again for all you do!
Brittany, I think you’re “on to something “ here. First, “Longaberger” baskets are highly collectible. They’ve been made a while, but definitely in recent decades like the 70’s and 80’s. I’m also thinking, perhaps Native American Indian baskets made in these recent times would be found with some maker’s marks (particularly initials and perhaps a little symbol.) Native American crafts (like jewelry for example) are of course still being made and are quite popular. You would think, if a basket is signed marked or labeled like the ones you describe, it probably is higher quality. Otherwise, the maker would not mark it. I have sold old baskets with marks on the bottom, but not much. Maybe initials, or a date etc. I definitely would keep doing what you’re doing, finding such baskets. Great post.
Correction in my reply: “I have SOME (not sold) old baskets with marks…” sorry , Dan
Thank you, Diana! I appreciate your experience and knowledge!
Aww you’re very welcome Janna 🙂
My mother past away recently and she had collected hundreds of baskets over the years. I don’t much about baskets but I’m sure there are some with real value. Is there someone you could refer me to that would be interested in huge basket lot. My mother was a collector of many things and she always had an eye for a nice basket find.ty
Hi Phillip, unfortunately I don’t have a basket buyer at the moment. I would recommend taking the collection to a reputable auction house and disposing of them that way. Best of luck-
Thank You, Diana, for all the thorough detailed information.
I have been buying and selling antiques since 1970 and always learn
something new from you !
Such a lovely compliment Connie! Thanks for taking the time to let me know that my resources have been helpful 🙂
Thank you so much you’ve enlightened me in a very enjoyable manner.. I knew I had two Antique baskets I just didn’t know how to identify them for sure and to my delight mine have all the indicators you mention. I have had them for over 40 years and they were old when I bought them. Is there a way to actually date them and put a value to them ? I am downsizing and cannot keep everything so I’m not sure if I will give them away or sell them.
I’d appreciate your advice if possible and if thats not possible I thank you anyway for all the information.
I’m so glad the article was so helpful for you Linda! I have an article that should help you determine the age and value of your baskets call 9 Free Ways to Price Your Antiques. You can read it here: https://adirondackgirlatheart.com/9-free-ways-to-price-antiques/
Hello
I have some Cherokee Indian and some Gullah Sweetgrass baskets I would love some help in finding the worth of.
Can you help?
Unfortunately I’m unfamiliar with those types of baskets. I wrote an article called 9 Free Ways to Price Your Vintage & Antiques that should help. You can read it here: https://adirondackgirlatheart.com/9-free-ways-to-price-antiques/
Hello. I have an old basket from the mountains of Kentucky that served as a makeshift bassinet for my mother who is now 87 years old. it was incredibly well preserved with the exception of a broken handle (and I still have the piece). Unfortunately, I recently placed it too close to the edge of the crate that our puppy sleeps in, and he chewed through the edge. I am trying to determine if it is worth repairing and, if so, how to find the best person to do it. We now live in the DC area.
Hi Karen, here’s an article that will help you find ways to value your basket: https://adirondackgirlatheart.com/9-free-ways-to-price-antiques/
Regarding the repair work, you could Google for info and/or ask an auction house or antique dealer/shop owner for recommendations. Best of luck with your amazing basket!
I am trying to help my 92 yr old neighbor who is moving into assisted living to find out what her basket collection is worth. I know nothing about this.Someone who looked at the collection of between 30-40 baskets might be worth something.We are in western Ny near Buffalo. Many of the pieces were bought in Maine from Sarah Sockbeson .My questions are : do you know someone in the Buffalo area, have you heard of Sarah and what do you suggest I do. Thanks so much for any help you can give.To the casual observer some of them are quite beautiful and I found a price on one of $685.
Hi Richard! Unfortunately I don’t have a contact for you. My recommendation would be to reach out to a reputable auction house to discuss the value of the baskets and whether they have an appropriate auction coming up in the future where the baskets could be sold for a reasonable amount. You may be able to have a discussion via email (with good photos) rather than having to cart them around. I wish you the best of luck–
Hi
I am searching for a basket appraiser . I am 72 and started collecting as a child with my mother . I have my original basket ( Logan ) my parents used as a car basket as an infant .
Most are big and beautiful , some from other countries Japan ,France ….most east coast New England as I am. ,
Can you give any advice to find an appraiser ? I’m moving and want to sell the. Entire collection. Not piece meal and I don’t have time to research them all ..
I know Clars in Berkeley would auction them … is that the best route ?
I live in Sf Bay Area .. leaving in a month 😳
Thank you
Allana
Hi Allana–I highly recommend you go the auction route. It sounds like you have a reputable auction house in mind, but it couldn’t hurt to talk with a couple of auction houses about your collection to ensure that you’re dealing with someone knowledgeable about antique baskets. Best of luck!
I have a basket, made by by Great – Grandfather for my Grandmother. He lived in PA.
The basket is made of reeds. It was past from my Grandmother to my Dad, to me. it is in a plexiglass box to preserve it. How do I find out how much it would be worth? should it be insured?
Hi Kathy! I have an article that lists 9 free ways to price your antiques. Alternatively, you could always have it appraised by a professional. Best of luck!
Hi! I have several really well made baskets that have a unique handle. The only baskets I can find similar are attributed to Elmer Richmond. The handle is very distinctive. My baskets are not signed. Do you have any advice on how to identify these? Is there an expert that appraises baskets that I can hire to appraise? I have 5 total. Thank you!
I’m not aware of any specific basket appraisers Karen. You could try Dr. Lori (a YouTuber who does appraisals). Alternatively, you could discuss your baskets with a high end auction house, which could likely send you in the right direction if they couldn’t help you themselves. Best of luck!