How to Determine the Value of an Old Mirror
The ornately carved mirror hangs above the fireplace, silently guarding its 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 antique 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. A 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 an 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 23I bought a small hand mirror about fifteen years ago from a charity shop, it is beautiful, however, a friend told me it looks like it could be Victorian, Georgian or maybe a child's hand mirror. It has what seems to be a real moth/butterfly set under a domed casing resting on pink corn and very delicate angel hair. The handle is brass with flowers set in the handle. Do you know where I can find out its history?
The best bet is to take to an antique dealer that might be able to help you determine its history and value. If you can't find a reputable dealer, go online to an appraisal website and upload a few photos of the mirror. You may have to pay a small fee. However, there are a number of free appraisal sites.
Helpful 5Does a mirror from the 1970s have any potential value?
It could possibly have a decent value depending on its size, the manufacturer and the materials it's made from.
Helpful 5I 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 16I have a Galax authentic 1957 electro copper plated mirror it's approx 3' x 4'. Stamped made at 11 am, 1957, what is the value?
Its value could be well over $100.
Helpful 5
© 2014 Linda Chechar
Related
Start a Conversation!
AUTHORAnn Jennings -- Some of the smaller versions are around $90 to $150. If your large rectangular art deco mirror with beveled edges might be worth at least $250 or more if it is in good shape without damage.
I have a large (54"x36") it has no frame and beveled edges. It is from he early 1930's. Does it have any alue?
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I researched a swivel sterling plate vanity mirror from the late 20th century made in Italy. It has decorative scrollwork around the frame. The price is offered for $300. There are other vintage swivel mirrors but they don't have a marked date or where they are made. I've seen several online that are around $50 to $200.
I have a sterling silver round vanity mirror on a round stand with flowers and leaves vine on it and it is has a little weight.can you tell me anything about it ? And if its worth anything of value?
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Robert Brown, I have quite a bit of research but I haven't been able to find anything information regarding the maker's stamp on the back of the mirrors you found. Since they don't have frames they could possibly be an Art Deco style made in 1930.
I found 2 mirrors that have HORRS BR 3.19.30 on the backs of them. just the mirrors with no framing. was wondering if they are worth anything. found them while cutting a 18th century farm house attic. thank you Robert
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Amber Shelley, it may be from the 1920s or 1930s. Since it doesn't have any indication of a date it could be even older or later. You should check out some of these online antique appraisal sites and upload your photos. Several are for free but some do charge a fee. There are appraisal websites mentioned in these previous comments.
This mirror has no identifying makers marks, any idea of how old it is?
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Bonnie B -- The Nurre Companies were located in Bloomington, Indiana, Burlington, Iowa, St. Louis and Kansas City, Missouri, Memphis, Tennessee. I've seen one of their mirrors online that is Hollywood Regency style number 1166 made between 1937-1942. They often have a stamp on the back of the mirror that shows the year and manufacture location. Unfortunately, I'm not sure what year or style the number 1029 indicates.
I have a Nurre Maestro number 1029. Can you tell me anything about it
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Hi Bette,
I have not been able to find a similar one with the mirror's maker's mark. You can take photos and upload them to online appraisal sites. I've listed some appraisers down in the comments below. These websites might be able to provide information for free or a minimal fee.
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Have an old looking wall mirror appears to be wood. It is dark with golden color center shell carved in with scroll on each side . mirror is beveled letters on back partially ledgeable G a backwardL J can you tell me anything?
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Tgosney, if the mirror is made in China it is probably not worth much. It is doubtful that it is an antique if the frame is made of brushed metal. I've also looked up the numbers and barcode--no information comes up.
Can you help me find information on a Large Brushed Metal 36"x 23" Rectangle Beveled Frame Mirror, it has a vendor # 57895 and date code 211 on the back. As well as a gold sticker that says made in China and a barcode #050276686576. I have searched and searched and came up with nothing.
Thank you,
Tami
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Liz Resen -- I'm unfortunately not an appraiser. Since it doesn't have any manufacturer marks it might difficult to determine its date and value. You can upload photos to several of the online appraisal websites that are mentioned in the comments below. It would be best to find a local antiques expert to show them the photos or bring in the actual mirror. Good luck with your investigation!
Just found you while researching, very excited. I have been researching a mirror and have found nothing resembling it anywhere online. I can't tell if it's Victorian or Early American. The glass has started to oxidize, the wood is carved, and the back is wood and looks old. I can't find any markings. There's a piece of tape of the back but whatever was on there has completely worn off. I've read through comments below but I'm not sure who would be the best for this particular item. Do you accept pictures? Thank you in advance. Liz
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Brends williams -- There are a number of older mirrors that have painted or etched images on the front. I haven't found anything that looks like your grandmother's mirror. It could be an antique if it is at least 100 years old.
I have a mirror of my grandmothers it frameless with a wooden back and hanging chane with a picture of a cottage with a wheel infront of it do you think it could be antique please
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Britney Savoy, I've done some online research and couldn't find antique mirrors with that manufacturer stamp. All I could find was a Swedish company GBW that made a deco table lamp with a glass shade from the 1950s. No mirrors unfortunately.
Old mirror with G.B.W stamp on the back
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Connie Boles -- Unfortunately there's not enough information to determine the maker's mark, date and manufacturer's location. You might want to take several photos and upload them to an online antique appraisal site.
I have a antique wall mirror which I believe is Georgian with a signature on the back Gustaf something i can't make out the last name it's written in white it's rectangular with a round top it had at one time vaneer decals on it too and bottom
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Tuttie, I've done some research and can't find the mirror you described. You might want to take a photo and show it to an antique shop or upload it to online appraisal site.
I have a old mirror about 20+ years old. It is a wall mirror and the length of a sofa. It has 3 connecting circles surrounding each circle with a gold frame. Any possible information would be very appreciated.
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Garris Dean, that's not enough information for researching the mirror.
We have a 1918 mirror, J.R or RJ company any thang you could tell use
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Al Giacchi, I've done some research and can't find any information on this mirror. Try to upload a photo of it to an online appraisal site. They should be able to give you an estimate of value, date and the manufacturer. Look below the comments--I have included a number of online appraisal links. Hope this helps!
Trying to identify an early 1900 (I believe) round mirror with the bottom 1/3 being blue glass and the top 2/3 clear with a sailboat etched on it. Would like to know the origin, and value. Also whether rt not the backing should be repaired to clear up the spots on it.
Wondering the value of an older maybe 1930 or 40 mirror with the bottom 1/3 being blue glass and a sailboat etched into it.
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Fermin LeBlanc, I saw a pair on eBay. The bid was $149. The price was that's all I could find.
Ornate Antique Carved Wood Gilt 12 3/8” Round Bevelled Mirrors how much can worth?
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Anonymous, 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.
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