Your kitchen could be hiding a treasure trove of items that could make you a fortune. From quirky and vintage to retro and fun, certain kitchenware items have the potential to earn you some surprise extra cash. Edd, a valuer at RWB Auctions, shares his expertise on how to spot valuable kitchenware and what to look for when determining their worth.
What Makes Kitchenware Valuable?
According to Edd, items that are quirky, fun, vintage, or retro tend to have higher value, especially those that are visually appealing for display. Crockery and cutlery with interesting forms and shapes, as well as hand-painted or gilt detail, may suggest that they were made by top designers or makers. Antique tableware imported from China or Japan can also fetch high prices due to their beautiful decoration.
Spotting Valuable Silverware
When it comes to silverware, Edd advises looking for maker's marks and sterling silver hallmarks. Items marked with "EPNS" or "EP" are only silver plated and are unlikely to have significant value. However, those made of solid silver can be worth a good amount.
Don't Overlook Your Pans and Kitchen Implements
Even your old pans and kitchen implements could be worth something. Items made with thick heavy brass or copper, especially those with a rustic or novelty look, can appeal to collectors. While they may not be worth as much as elegant showpieces, they can still fetch a decent price.
Rareness and Condition
While rarity and condition are often connected, a rare item in less than perfect condition can still hold significant value. However, damage or restoration on pottery, porcelain, glass, and silver will be apparent to collectors and may affect the item's worth. Edd notes that some collectors appreciate antique crockery and kitchenware for its decorative and worn appeal, including chips, scuffs, and repairs.
Complete Sets vs. Single Items
While complete sets of kitchenware tend to be more valuable, individual items can still have a high worth. Copper pans, silver cutlery, porcelain dinner services, and glassware are examples of items that can be valuable as a set. However, rare single items, regardless of their age, can also attract a good price based on the maker, designer, or decorator.
Valuable Items You May Already Have
If you're wondering what valuable items could be hidden in your kitchen cupboards, here are a few examples:
- Royal Albert Old Country Rose Tea Set – Sold for £1,200 at auction
- Homepride Fred kitchen items – Netted £200 at auction
- Herb choppers – A collection sold for £1,000 at auction
- Spitting Image teapots – Sold for £90 at auction
- Antique French copper saucepans – Sold for £340 at auction
- Georg Jensen cutlery set – Sold for £8,500 at auction
Other Valuable Kitchenware Nest Eggs
Here are a few more examples of valuable kitchenware:
- Meissen Wine Pot – Sold for £90,000 at auction
- Paul De Lamerie silver tankard – Sold for £11,000 at auction
- 12x Sevres Plates for Emperor Napoleon – Sold for £90,000 at auction
- Chinese Imperial Wucai Wine Cup – Sold for £160,000 at auction
So, before you throw away or neglect those seemingly ordinary kitchen items, take a closer look. You may just have a valuable treasure hiding in plain sight!
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