Value of old tables

One clear answer

The useful first step is to identify the table type, material, construction, size, surface, and whether a maker or designer attribution can be supported.

Auction records are market evidence, not a final appraisal. Condition, authenticity, provenance, size, medium, completeness, repairs, logistics, and demand can materially change value.

Quick value checklist

• Photograph top, base, underside, legs, feet, joinery, leaves, drawers, labels, repairs, and surface wear.
• Measure height, width, depth, diameter, leaf size, and extended length if applicable.
• Note wood, veneer, inlay, finish, hardware, casters, and whether the table is stable.
• Record any maker label, designer attribution, family history, or prior sales paperwork.

Key value drivers

• Designer or maker-attributed tables can compare differently from ordinary utility tables.
• Wood quality, veneer, inlay, proportions, original surface, and scale affect value.
• Refinishing, veneer loss, instability, missing leaves, and water damage can reduce value.

Condition and authenticity cautions

Do not sand, oil, refinish, or replace hardware before appraisal. Surface, underside construction, and original parts often hold the clues that make a table identifiable.

Photographs can support a useful first read, but they do not replace physical inspection when authenticity, restoration, structural condition, or legal use matters.

When the free screener is enough

Use the free screener when you need a first-pass identification, condition read, and market triage before moving, selling, donating, restoring, or ordering a formal appraisal.

When to get a professional appraisal

Use a professional appraisal for insurance, estate division, donation, resale of a significant item, or any case where attribution, provenance, or documentation matters. See the professional sample report for report format.

Photo checklist before you upload

• Full front, back, sides, top, underside, interior, hardware, feet, labels, maker marks, and scale reference.
• Close-ups of joinery, surface, wood grain, veneer, glass, upholstery, drawers, repairs, replaced parts, and damage.
• Measurements, provenance notes, receipts, past appraisal paperwork, maker documentation, and restoration records.

Related guides

Furniture guides, Free furniture appraisal app, Free antique furniture appraisal online, Value of old furniture, How to identify antique furniture, How to identify antique tables, Antique end tables value, Free table appraisal app.

FAQ

Are old tables worth more if they are solid wood?

Sometimes, but solid wood alone is not enough. Form, maker, design, construction, condition, surface, and demand matter.

Do missing leaves affect table value?

Yes. Missing leaves, replaced leaves, warped tops, and instability can materially affect value and usability.

Should I refinish an old table before selling it?

Usually no. Identify it first. Refinishing can remove original surface and change market value.