Picked this bookcase off the trash a few years ago. The Scituate Art Festival in Rhode Island is coming up this weekend, so I was thinking about selling it to one of the dealers around here. I believe it is oak and it measures 49" tall, 35" wide and 11" deep. Decent shape, but it does have a few dings. Doors work well and the glass is in nice shape. I'd really like to know the age of this bookcase and what you think an antique dealer would charge for it. Thanks for any help and opinions on this bookcase.
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I like its rustic appearance, but it's hard to date from just a photograph. Is there any manufacturers mark on the piece?
Check the metal latches to see if there is a maker's mark on the latches. Identifying a maker's mark on a vintage or antique latch (such as on trunks, doors, or cabinet hardware) helps determine the manufacturer, patent date, and history of the piece.
Check the Hardware Surface: Look closely at the metal body, strike plate, thumbpiece, or interior mechanism of the latch for stamped letters, numbers, or logos.
Look for Patent Dates: Many 19th- and early 20th-century hardware pieces (like antique trunk or door latches) feature a patent date or a maker's name like Clayton Mark or Jas Carpenter stamped directly into the iron or brass. Inspect the Backside: If the latch is removable, check the hidden underside or mounting plate where makers often stamped inventory numbers, trade marks, or company initials
Antique and vintage door or chest hinges often feature maker's marks, manufacturer names, initials, or patent dates stamped directly into the metal (such as on the face or reverse side of the leaf. Latch Faceplate: The flat metal strip visible on the edge of the door (where the bolt pops out) often features a stamped brand name or model number.
Casing or Body (Mortise / Rim Latches): Unfasten the latch or lock from the door and inspect the main cast-iron, steel, or brass box interior or exterior plate.
Backplates and Knobs: If part of a complete set, check the reverse side of the doorknob backplates or escutcheons.
Assembly / Tally Marks: Older English and European hardware sometimes feature small matching "tick marks," "X" symbols, or assembly numbers stamped on the casing, bolt, or key bit to show factory matching. Finding any manufacturer's marks may help you date the piece accurately.
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