How to Determine the Value of an Old Mirror
The ornately carved mirror hangs above the fireplace silently guarding it secrets. It is an exquisite addition to your sitting room and a conversation piece long admired by family and friends. Having never given it much thought, you now find yourself curious as to the old mirror’s lineage and value. The discovery process will require a bit of determination and detective work on your part. By employing a combination of physical inspection, research and expert advice, you can uncover its past and find out just how much your old mirror is worth.
Where to Start?
In most cases, a direct correlation exists between the age of a mirror and its value. Mass-produced examples from the early 20th century do not command the same price as handcrafted antique mirrors from the 1800s and earlier. So, zeroing in on the time your mirror was made will be the first step in determining its value. Begin by performing a thorough inspection of your mirror to see if you can gather enough information to make an educated guess as to its age.
Examine Your Mirror
1. Check the Mirror Glass
The reflective silver mercury backing of an entique mirror breaks down and oxidizes over time, appearing as random cloudy spots around the edges and across the mirror surface. If the mottled patches on your mirror look too uniform, it may be a reproduction mirror plate. Glass color is another indicator of age. Old mirror glass has a distinctive yellow or gray cast. Colorless glass indicates a modern mirror or replacement mirror glass. Unfortunately, both instances will negatively affect the value of your mirror.
Good Info to Help Identify Antique Mirror Glass
2. Inspect the Back
The back of your old mirror also reveals much about its age. Antique mirrors typically feature a wood rather than a paper backing. Examine the construction to ensure all nails, screws and hangers are true to the period. Hand-forged fasteners will look extremely crude and irregular compared to modern, machine-made versions. Inspect the back for a mark or tag indicating the maker and place of origin.
3. Look for Clues in the Frame
The overall condition and material used to make a mirror frame plays an important role in valuation. Look for imperfections that differentiate a handmade mirror from a pristine reproduction. The frame should show reasonable signs of wear and even minor damage. Old frame materials include solid wood, wood veneer, plaster composition or metal. Examine the mirror frame for extensive restorative work. An sloppy or obvious repair job will detract from its value.
Check the Condition of Your Mirror Frame
4. Take Note of Fakes
There are some really talented people out there whose sole purpose is to fool us into thinking we own a valuable an antique mirror, when in fact it is a artfully crafted reproduction. They do an excellent job replicating old mirror glass, frames and even hand-wrought hardware. If you find yourself completely stumped when examining your old mirror, try some of the following tips to further determine if your mirror is the "real deal".
Research Online Antique Sites
Check reputable online antique sites for similar mirrors. A broad search of "antique mahogany mirrors" can produce millions of results and leave you highly frustrated. Look at online photos of old mirrors to identify a time period and style. Once you have a rough idea of the age and style of your mirror, use a combination of descriptive keywords to narrow your search as much as possible.
Words such as "Georgian", "Regency", "Empire", "Louis" or "Victorian" will refer to the monarchy at the time the mirror was made. You can also use keywords like "baroque", "directoire", "gothic" or "neoclassical" which indicate the style of the mirror and also point to a time of manufacture. In addition to giving an idea of value, online antique sites often include details about each mirror—information that may provide insight into the history and rarity of your mirror. Corroborate your findings by consulting multiple online antique and auction sites.
Characteristics of Antique Mirrors From Different Periods
Period
| Years
| Characteristics
|
|---|---|---|
Gothic
| Early 1600s and prior
| Pointed arch shape, linen folds, elaborate carvings, dark oak
|
Baroque
| Early 1600s to 1700
| Oval, gilding in gold and silver, cherubs, carved foliage and garlands
|
Rococo
| Early to mid 1700s
| Rectangular, walnut and mahogany, gilding and bronzing, shell motifs, highly ornate
|
Neoclassical
| Mid 1700s to early 1800s
| Oval with flat base, gilded gold or silver, restrained, leaves branches and urn motifs
|
Georgian
| Early to mid 1700s
| Rectangular or oval, symmetrical, veneer over oak, fretwork scrolls
|
Regency
| Late 1700s to early 1800s
| Oval or round, mahogany or gold gild, leaf motifs, Eagle and flags, convex mirror
|
Victorian
| Early 1800s to 1900
| Oversize and rectangular, metal or dark wood, heavy ornamentation
|
Visit Free Appraisal Events
Not everyone is lucky enough to go to an Antiques Roadshow event. However, you can find ethical antique dealers, auction houses and organizations that offer free appraisal events and services. Contact your local antique society for events in your area. Visit reputable antique dealers offering free appraisal services. Never rely on the opinion of a single dealer, visit several to get a good feel for your mirror’s actual worth.
Try Your Luck at a Free Appraisal Event
Hire an Appraiser
If your investigative work to this point suggests you might own a valuable, old mirror, consider investing in a certified appraisal. An antique appraisal will lend credibility to your research and establishes value. Written appraisals consist of a complete item description, an opinion of fair market retail value and an indication of replacement value for insurance purposes. Appraisers charge flat fees or hourly rates, which can set you back several hundred dollars based on the amount of information requested.
About Antique Appraisals
Questions & Answers
How do I figure out the time period and value of my mirror?
Take multiple pictures of your mirror (including any numbers or maker's marks) and show them to an antique appraiser or send them to an online appraisal service.
Helpful 11I was gifted a sizeable etched mirror in 1980. The mirror has been hanging in my living room ever since. It has a date in the back from the late 1800’s, which I cannot see since it’s hanging on the wall. Who can I contact for its appraisal?
If your city or town is large enough, there should be antique appraisers locally available. Do an online search to find one that might specialize in mirrors. If there aren't any appraisers in your area, there are many online. Send them a few photos, and they can help for a nominal fee, or some will do it for free.
Helpful 9- Helpful 1
- Helpful 1
© 2014 Linda Chechar
Related
Start a Conversation!
AUTHORAnonymous, Here's an online site that looks like it is a good one:
https://www.valuemystuff.com/us/home
Here are two more:
Hope these help.
I have my parents mirror that I know is 78 +. I it is a gold leaf mirror with a pattern around the whole mirror and two objects at the top. I do not know if it was passed onto them from their parents are not. There are no markings so I don't know where to start. Can you recommend a company online that I could send a picture to?
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Anonymous: You're best bet is to contact a professional antique appraiser. An appraiser who regularly evaluates antiques and vintage pieces can help you determine the market value of your mirror. Look for an expert who is a member of the American Society of Appraisers or Appraisers Association of America, Inc.
I have mirror with certificate that is verified to be from 1530 but i still cant get a price for it
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Carma Elliott, found one on eBay that is a Renaissance revival mirror made between 1880-1900. It is cast iron with a bronze wash and has 2 lion heads on each side at top. The mirror is 38 1/2" tall x 25 1/4" wide. It also has ornate designs of cherubs, acanthus leaves, roses, flowers, scrolls and beaded accents. At the top center has a medallion design with sunrise over ocean waves. The asking price is $765.00. I know this isn't comparable as far as the design but it might give you an idea of its value. Take pictures and send to an online antique appraisal site to find out more about your mirror. Good luck with your research.
I have an ornate black rod iron mirror about 4ft tall with cement on back it weighs about a 100 lbs and has the straight screws in it and a little metal lion head on top do you know anything about this
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Daniel Wilson, well it seems this mirror may be worth a great deal. However, I'm not an expert so it would be best to take photos and show them to a local antiques dealer or go online to an appraisal site and share the images. Hopefully you can find out more about the mirror's age, history and value. Best of luck with your search!
A very wealthy client gave me a large mirror. They said the mirror is worth about $30,000.00. They were moving and the old mirror would not fit in their new house.
It is almost ten feet tall and about 2.5 feet wide. The mirror wrapped with elaborate plaster carving that is gold like in color but not shiny. The back of the mirror seemed to have been painted my hand with some type of matailic paint.
Please help me determine what type of mirror I have. Also a value of the piece and the best way to sell it. Thank you in advance for your wisdom.
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Frank Baleno, here's a useful article link from Consumer Reports on finding out the value of an antique and information to find an appraiser. I'm a writer, not an antique expert so it won't do any good to send photos to me. Hopefully the CR article will point to someone who can help you with the history and value of the mirror. Good luck!
Have a beautiful mirror hanging on my wall and can’t see the back. It consists of 3 separate pieces, the center with no engraving, the outer two have identical engraved peacocks on them. I acquired it from an old Jewish women some 50 years ago. It was on her wall too. Don’t know the age. Can you provide me a professional antique advisor? Can send pictures. 803-782-3736
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karen baker, I looked up Theodore Alexander. The company makes mirrors and home furnishings. The pieces are of high quality and the prices are expensive. I wasn't able to find a brass mirror with cherubs. The company was founded in 1996 so the mirror isn't very old but it could be valuable. Check out one of the online appraisal sites and upload a photo of the mirror. They may be able to tell you about it.
I bought a mirror it really heavy brass I believe it has cherbs on it and a yellow sticker that says that says theodore alexander on it wood on back
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Holland, you never know if the mirror has any worth. Sometimes if it is a valuable mirror with slight damage doesn't affect the value. It's best to take it to an expert to see if it is an important piece. You can also take some pictures and upload them to online appraisers. Good luck!
I have a 1961 vintage old almost pecan wood frame mirror , that the frame broke off of in a move to reveal the stamp , is it worth anything ? It’s all splotchy with black spots kinda foggy
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Linda, I'm not an appraiser. I have listed several online appraisal sites in responses. Check out the links below. You might be able to get someone to provide details and valuation. Hope this helps. Good luck!
Hello, please can you value my mirror?
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I couldn't find anything online regarding National Mirror Works. I did find National Brass & Iron Works of Reading, PA. They made smaller, ornate, metal mirrors and picture frames some dating back to the 1880s. Obviously not the same company, though.
If you have an antique mall or store in your area that has vintage mirrors, it might be worth asking. Sorry I couldn't help. :(
I recently inherited a mirror, on the back it says National mirror works #280. Its octagon beveled peach color large etched mirror. I can not find any information on it. Can ypu give me any tips?
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MystieGraham, electro copper plated mirrors were manufactured during the 1950s-60s so the date your mirror is 1965. I don't think these mirrors have much value although I couldn't find any Galax versions listed online for sale.
I did find an article about the history of the company from the Galax Gazette from 1950.
http://www.galaxscrapbook.com/index.php?option=com...
Unfortunately, I'm not a vintage mirror expert. If you want to find out more about it, contact an online appraiser. Maybe they can provide more information about your mirror. Good luck with the search.
I purchased an oval mirror that I planned to use for my wedding. I did spray paint the frame silver, but as I was taking the frame off I noticed the wooden pieces holding the frame together. I also noticed where it said
This mirror is guaranteed to be genuine electro copper plated. Galax Mirror Company Inc.Galax, Virginia
December 29, either 1965 or 1565 I cant quite read the second number to determine if its a 5 or 9 but it also says 3 pm and the it also.says manufactured under pat nos
2.753.298. I would appreciate any information I also have a few pics, but dont know how to load them
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SEAN, you would have to attach the photos to an email or text message. I am not an appraisal expert so you should send them to an online appraisal site. Hope this helps.
HOW CAN I SEND PHOTOS OF MY MIRROR TO FIND OUT IF IYS OFFICIAL OR NOT?
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bob caulfield - There are a number of online appraisal sites. Some are completely free and some give you a free trial before having to buy a subscription or pay for each appraisal. Here are a few that might be of interest:
Country Living Magazine
The publication has a free online appraisal section. Submit your photo and info to the magazine’s expert. If your item is chosen, they will give you a detailed appraisal that will be featured in the magazine and on the website. Might be worth a try.
https://www.countryliving.com/shopping/antiques/a3...
InstaAppraisal
This is a free site where you can submit your item and questions and will answered by the community (non experts) or the site's antiques experts. It’s kind of like social media or a forum so you can interact with other members.
https://www.instappraisal.com/about-instappraisal
Appraisal Day
Expert appraiser Paul Royka will appraise most items for free. The site provides an online form to submit the item’s details and photos. If the antique value is under $500 you probably won’t get a response.
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PatriciaMurray62 - Arts and Crafts metals typically have an iridescent look or antique patina that is formed over time due to oxidation. Using any sort of harsh chemical cleaning products could alter the appearance and decrease the mirror’s value. It would be wise to consult an expert to determine if and how to clean the mirror frame. If you want to simply tidy it up, use a very mild solution of dish soap and water to remove dirt and fingerprints to avoid removing the patina or iridescence.
I have a large gold gilted vintage mirror, that I believe is from early 1800's or earlier.
I have 4 photo's, who can I send to, to get idea of what it is and value?
I have an Arts and Crafts bronze framed mirror that has a patina on it that looks iridescent, all others that ive seen have been polished but , i read that you affect the value of Bronze if you clean it so i am confused, to clean , or not o clean ?
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Delaney kerr, I'm not sure of the value. It all depends on the manufacturer and condition. It would be best to take a few photos and submit them to an online appraisal site. They should be able to give you a ballpark figure. Do a search for "free online antique appraisals". Hope this helps!
Hello I havelage copper backed mirrors from an abandoned mansion in Justin Texas . The stamp in the back says jan.
1959 they are about 3x5 a quarter in thick . Is there any value
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Genny Cliff, I believe Binswanger Glass Company in Richmond, VA trademarked the name Tru-Flect in the early 1950s. Their copper plated mirrors were made during the 1960s and 1970s. I haven't seen any that are extremely expensive but they are definitely coveted by interior designers because of the resurgence of mid-century and 1970s style.
I bought a long Mirror,I think it is old.On the back where the paper has been tore off it saids True Flect Copper Plated
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Marye, there is no listing for Desoto Manufacturing in Chattanooga. There was a Desoto Manufacturing & Supply in Memphis that made boats. That's all. No mirrors.
Any way of knowinf if desoto manufacturing of chatt tenn ever made mirrors with eagles on them?
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Sherman, the candle-mirror test is one of those old folk tales. It is supposed to indicate a mirror's age by holding a candle or lighter close to the mirror and count how many flames in the reflection. Then you multiply that number by 7 to calculate the mirror's age . Not something experts use but it is an amusing anecdote.
Is it true about the candle/lighter trick to tell if a mirror is an antique?
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corporategod, thanks for the photos. Maybe someone out there has an idea as to when and where it was made. I'm not an antiques expert but obviously it has quite a few condition issues due to age, humidity, temperature fluctuations or dry rot. Since you have plenty of images to share, you should check out online appraisal sites that will examine the mirror and possibly provide information. Hope your search reveals its background.
This is a mirror I have in my basement since 1985 can anyone tell me more about it?
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thisorthat48, there are a number of online antique appraisal sites available for free or a nominal fee. You can send photos of your mirrors to see if they can identify the manufacturer and possibly give you an idea of value. That's the easiest way to find the answers you're looking for. Good luck with your search!
I have a few mirror that i can not identify. they were given to me and the lady was 98 years old and she said the mirror was her mothers along with a hand held mirror and brush. the wall mirror is an arch and the mirror looks as if was out of a scary movie. the hand held mirror and brush has four marks on the side, one being a flower. then I have a real big mirror that is wood carved. Any help would be appreciated
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Jennifer, here's a listing of a mid-century Hollywood Regency mirror that was made by Mt. Airy Mirror Company under the brand Mt. Airy Furniture Company.
https://www.chairish.com/product/909705/vintage-ho...
Background of the company per Wiki Answers:
The Mount Airy Furniture Company was formed in 1895 by J. F. Yokley, C. R. Merritt and E. H. Kochtitzky and it manufactured case goods including bedroom furniture, executive office furniture, pie safes and various cabinets. Through the years it expanded to include dining room and occasional chairs in its production. It merged in 1966 with the Mount Airy Chair Company which had been formed in 1921, by the Yokley brothers, Bruce and James. An article in 1928 states the manufacturing output included drawing room and dining room chairs, dining room furniture, and bed room chairs. Unfortunately, on June 9, 1997, the Mount Airy Furniture Company was completely destroyed by a devastating fire.
That's all I could find. There's nothing specific about the mirror company itself.
I was wondering if someone can help me in the right direction to go look up a mirror dated December 20th 1950 from Mount Airy Mirror Company I've looked online and I really can't find the information j I'm looking for I know it's not an antique but I'm just curious of the mirror and the making
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Charity Thomas Bird--
The only info I've found is Walker Glass Company's listing from the Canadian Trade Index. It mentions they manufacture, or at one time manufactured, Wonder Glo decorative framed mirrors.
https://www.ctidirectory.com/search/company.cfm?co...
Here's the link from their website pertaining to the company's history. It doesn't even mention Wonder Glo.
http://walkerglass.com/walker/about-walker/
It is quite the mystery. Wish I could be of more help.
I am wondering if you can help me find information about the Wonderglo brand or company. Husband just came home with large mirror, super heavy and in great shape except the one peice of the 6 framing pieces was broken in the move. Not looking for value just curious about info. When i google, yours is the only article that isnt a selling site ( ebay etsy, kijiji etc). We are going to fix the broken piece and keep it but i just like learning about pieces we own.
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MIA, it would be best to take a photo and submit it to an online furniture appraiser. If it is a mid-century modern mirror, it might have some value.
I have a wooden mirror with shelfs in side i remember my mom had 1 whats it woth today i think a 1960
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Mwhite939, unless you know the person really well, I wouldn't ask for it back. Unfortunately once the mirror is in another's possession, they own it.
I may have given away a worthy mirror how do i get it back without causing problem do u think person will give it back, also how do i know a mirrors worth it had silver or metal frame trim or borders and wood
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Teresa, a maker's mark on the back of the mirror (the manufacturer or artisan that created the mirror) will provide clues as to when and where the mirror was made. If the manufacturer is extremely familiar to antique experts, the value could increase. Once you discover who made the mirror and when, it will help determine the rarity and value of the piece.
I am interested in learning more about designs on the backs of old mirrors.
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Theresa Cramer -- You should take the mirrors to an antique dealer (if indeed they are truly antiques) to find out more about them.
Hi, I'm very new at this a friend of a friends Mother recently passed. ..she owned 2 homes. My friend took me when the estate was foreclosed on and they were throwing away her life like day old bread. ...the older home she kept antiques and crafts that she made her living on I have 2 large mirrors that match round looks as though one was on a bueru. and matching vanity with carvings in glass in white and topped with navy blue
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steve, I don't have any info regarding the mirror. I found the image on flickr and liked it so much, I used it for the main photo.
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Judith Evans, the mirror sounds like a real beauty. I'm sure there is a great story behind it. Since it's been in your husband's family for several generations it is likely considered an antique and could be valuable depending on the maker, style and material.
Unfortunately, I am not an appraiser so it is best to find an online antique expert and send them a few photos. Hopefully they can provide the information you're looking for. Good luck!
Hi the first photo on this page, do you have any info on this mirror?
Hi
Just over 40 years ago I inherited a very heavy mirror. As far as I can tell the frame and backing plate are cast iron; the plate is held in place with four small nits and bolts which have never been removed, and it has a strong twisted wire to hang it.
It's oval with an oval bevelled mirror and the whole thing measures 23" x 16". It's decorated with a cherub at the top, and what appear to be eagles (?) at the bottom with various other curlicues, leaves etc around it.
It has been in my husband's family for several generations but I would like more information if you can supply it. Oh - I'm in the UK.
Thank you and regards
Judith
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Mary, I did some online research and that age of mirror can be cut with a glass cutter. I would not attempt using a glass cutter on an antique mirror, but one circa 1972 should be fine. I would suggest taking it to a glass company and have them do it for you.
Is a mirror from 1972. Able 2 BE cut with a glass cutter?
Please let me know. Thanks
Thanks!!!!
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Melinda Moran, take a look at some of my other responses. You can look for an antiques appraiser in your area or contact an online expert. Give them all the details about your mirror such as a maker's mark, inscribed date, condition, type of wood, etc. I hope you can find out the background and value!
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ligiayiya, I would suggest looking for an online appraiser that can provide general info or an estimated valuation based on photos of your mirror. Take a look at this link to get an idea how it works. http://antiques.lovetoknow.com/Free_Antique_Apprai...
There are plenty of websites that do this sort of thing. Good luck with your research!
I have a big beautiful mirror and it looks old , how do I find out it's worth
Hi, I have a big mirror, how can I know it's value?? I live in Mexico and It's a little bit harder to find a person to tell me if it's valuable or even if it's really old or not. Can you help me?
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Anne, I've seen a lot of those mirrors and I just looked at a few on eBay. Unfortunately, they're very common and probably not worth much more than $20 if in pristine condition.
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Maddie, your mirror sounds like a fabulous find! Unfortunately I am not an appraiser so I cannot give you an estimate on value. If it was indeed manufactured in San Francisco in 1906 and did survive the quake it could be quite valuable. Find an online appraiser and send them a few pictures. Maybe they can help with your research. Best of luck!
Hi! I have a beveled glass mirror that is approximately 8ft long. 4 ft by width. It is beautiful. With an oak frame. On the back of the mirror it is stamped 1906 San Francisco. It appears flawless. Can u give me an idea of the possible value of this mirror. It is museum monted. This mirror obviously made it through the San Francisco earthquake that took place. Any help would be much appreciated. Thank you.
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crystal myers--Depends whether it is silver plated or genuine silver. The age and hallmark will also affect the value. Sorry I can't help. Take them to an antique dealer to get their opinion or do an online search for a similar set. Best of luck!
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Jamie Brown--I'm not sure what the MF19 indicates. That's where an appraiser can step in to help you find out everything you need to know. Good luck with your research!
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Melea Cline--Look up an appraiser online and then they might be able to find a buyer for you. Good luck!
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Deborah, unfortunately I don't do valuations. However, it does look like you have plenty of information to get an appraisal from a professional. Good luck with your investigation!
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Robina, so glad you liked this article. Hope you can eventually find someone there to help you with an opinion/appraisal of your mirror.
Thanks for your web page, a good guide. I live in Western Australia and can't find a professional to guide me with my mirror, so I enjoyed reading your page
Not to change the subject. But I need to know about Leather burning in the 1940 a very large image of Martin Fierro on his horse. The size about 18" tall and 12' wide.
Anything would help.
Live downtown Portland OR and would take it to someone if it sounds like its worth researching and finding out the value.
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Hi folks!
Thanks for visiting my article! I apologize if I did not respond to your request. Although I truly appreciate reading and responding to comments, I cannot help with valuation questions. I'm not an appraiser so it is best to contact someone in your area that specializes in antiques to see if your old mirror is worth something. Thanks again for stopping by!
I just did a Reno in my bathroom removed the mirror ... so heavy 48 " mirror with a sticker on the back wonder glo it is in excellent shape using worth anything?
I have a small plaster mirror oval and encircles with cherubs. It is heavy. It is gold and has bits of red coloring the cherubs cheeks and hair. I am not certain if this is older than 1950. Ca you help?
I'm curious as to find out how old my mirror is
I am an emapth. I can feel energy from people and items. I own antiques and feel energy from them sometime s.
Negative energy is on the rare side.
Too much Hollywood
I bought this mirror 20 years ago, it came out of an old Crown Drug store makes it over 100 years old. It's beveled and only has one mark of aging. Walnut trim that is removable to hang the mirror. The mirror is a statement piece, 5' lg. x 3' h (could be larger), very heavy. What would the value be? approximately?
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Phil, based on the info I would assume the mirror was made in Italy in 1929, but I can't be 100% sure. Best to get someone to authenticate the piece.
hi there iv'e just come across an old Oval shaped mirror stamped MAR 1929 MADE IN ITAL can't see if there's a Y have you any information on this please,
kind regards Phil.t.
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Interesting, Charles. I couldn't come up with anything specific regarding the stamp. I think it would be worth getting an opinion (for free, of course) from a local antiques dealer, if possible. Sorry I can't provide any definitive information. Hope you are able to find out more about it!
I have a hand carved wood mirror that at one time was gold in color, you can still see traces of gold in the crevices. Anyway, we had never noticed before because it's a little faint, but on the back it has a dull black stamp is what I would call it that reads MT VERNON MAHOGANY and there's a little more under it that I can't make out. Every time I search on line all that comes up in George Washington's estate.
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Doreen, I'm happy you were able to get some useful information from my article! The size alone would increase the value and if the age corresponds to the sticker, you could have something of worth. Good luck!
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Tania, I'm not sure what that mark would be. I did a little research and couldn't come up with anything. Thanks and I hope you are able to find out more about it.
I Came across this old looking mirror at a thrift store.. It has a interesting carved looking frame and there is a M # with 5 numbers after it ? Any ideals as to what that is?
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Joy, I apologize for the delay in responding to your comment. I've done some cursory research on the "COPPER MARK" stamp and have come up empty-handed. Now that your comment is live, maybe someone out there can share information regarding the origins/value of your mirror.
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Julie, that's fantastic! Your mirror sounds like one of those great finds like you see on Antiques Roadshow. The Westminster Abbey curator's suggestion is very helpful -- I had not heard that one. Thank you so much for contributing to the discussion. You do really need to get your mirror appraised! Good luck!
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Stacy, sorry for the delayed response. I am not familiar with your particular mirror design. Hopefully someday you can have someone knowledgeable take a look at it and give you an idea of its origins and value. So happy you found my article helpful!
i had a museum curator at Westminster Abbey tll me that to help determine the age of your mirror check the depth of the reflection. if you hold your finger against a modern mirror the reflection will touch the finger; in an older mirror there will de a gap - depth - to the reflection. I have a HUGE 5ft x 5ft Georgian (I think) mirror with lots of fogging/peeling and the gap between my finger and the reflection is about 1/2 inch! really need to get this beauty valued.
I came to ur post after some googling about older mirrors due to being curious about an old mirror my parents have had as long as I can remember and is going to be past down to me. It is huge! It is all mirror, no wood frame or anything of that sort. It is bordered with more mirror that has a curvy edge that comes to a point in the center of the frame, kind of like the shape of craft tags I've seen. Also has some etched floral design on the mirrored border part and the border bends outward towards you. I can't wait to get this in my hands but at the same time, it's hard to say that, knowing that if I have it, it will be a sad time as my parents would have to have pasted for me to have it. I, in no way, would ever want to sell it. But absolutely would want to know more about it and know it's worth. To me, it's priceless! I don't remember what the back looks like. It's so big that it takes a few people to lift. I figured I'd comment and see if you ever heard of such a mirror like this one or know anything else about it. One day I will be able to look at the back when it's down again and can take more notice to it. If we could post pictures I would have but I don't see an attachment button. Well, thanks for your post. It was so helpful!!
Anyone know what a 'COPPER MARK" stamped on back of a Victorian mirror (age 1864) heavy ornate plaster of paris gold gilded design, means?
Joy
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Sounds like a beautiful find Bobbie. Good luck with your search. Hopefully it is worth a lot!
well I just bought a beautiful old mirror. It must have had good vibes and wanted me cause I was mesmerized by it. I have a feeling it is very old and hope to find out the worth.
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Lorri, I've not heard of the lit match to determine a mirror's age. I did a cursory Google search and didn't find anything definitive. And yes, an antique mirror could have been used for a totally different purpose before being framed and used in a residence.
I'd heard along time ago. If you hold a lit match close to the surface of the mirror, the reflection 'before' and 'after' the direct reflection was supposed to be a way to tell how old a mirror is. I don't know the specifics though. I do however remember that the mirror could have been in a warehouse, or on a shelf etc... Before being mounted in the frame or whatever the case may be.
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reflexshawn, sounds like a lovely mirror and great find! If I were you I would take to a local antiques dealer to see if they can shed any light on its age and origin--they may even be able to give you a ballpark estimate on value. Hopefully the evaluation won't cost you anything.
I have had an old mirror that I bought in a jumble sale many years ago, its oval and about 30' at the widest point, its constructed of brass that was once silver plated, there is a small scrolled bit at the top and weirdest of all, the mirror is backed with paper thin lead. I'd welcome any light that could be shed as regards to age and stuff..
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aesta1, yes if you have the time and resources to devote to the research, it may be well worth it. You never know what you'll find out! Good luck!
I have several old mirrors but I really have no idea of their age or value. Maybe it is time to do some research.
My dear (elderly) friend paid about $100.00 for a large/framed & matted/heavy/beveled mirror more than 50 years ago. There are no markings that I can find, but I'm very curious to know if it's worth anything (to go for her long-term care). I have picked of it if anyone (in the NYC area!) is interested.
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mac, I would suggest taking several photos of your mirror and take them to a local antiques dealer to see if they can help you determine its age and relevant history. Also take photos of any marks that would indicate the maker. You can also look on websites that deal with antiques--maybe you'll find a similar mirror that will provide some clues. Good luck with your search!
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