Cast iron bathtubs are valued for their durability, heat retention, and timeless appearance. They are a long-lasting option for homeowners seeking a classic bathroom design.
For example, clawfoot and cast iron tubs are great sources of scrap metal and companies will potentially pay you more for your bathtub depending on the materials you have on hand.
The value of a cast iron bathtub for scrap depends on its condition, weight, and the presence of intact porcelain or claw feet, with prices ranging from $20 for scrap to over $1,000 for refurbished or antique pieces.
The value of antique cast iron skillets can start at similar to new prices, but a super rare Wagner or Griswold can fetch up to $1,500 apiece. A mint condition, super rare "spider skillet" made in the 1890s by Griswold is worth up to $8,000.
SELLING A CLAWFOOT TUB
Conditions and styles vary. Pricing starts at $250 per tub up to $475 and up.
Disposal and Recycling Options
Cast iron is highly recyclable. Contact local scrap metal recycling centers or recycling facilities to inquire about their acceptance of cast iron tubs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides resources for finding recycling centers in your area.
Wapak cast iron might be lesser known compared to the Griswold and Wagner brands, but it is just as collectible. The most sought after Wapak cast iron are the pans with the “Indian head" medallion on them, which was produced from 1903-1926. The rarest and most collectible is the #4 skillet--until recently.
Scrap metal recycling offers a great way to earn money for things like old microwaves, washers, dryers, stoves, and cast iron bathtubs while contributing to sustainability by reducing waste.
Cast iron can be worth a decent amount when scrapped with a reputable metal dealer. Whilst there's no set scrap value for this metal, scrap yards tend to use the following points to calculate prices which are accurate and up to date: Weight of your cast iron. Condition and signs of corrosion.
Antique Clawfoot Tub Values
Since these tubs were originally designed to adorn the lavish bathrooms of the social elite, on average they're worth a few thousand dollars (in good condition). Tubs that bear the manufacturers' markings of historic companies like Crane, Mott, Kohler, Standard Sanitary Manufacturing, and L.
Scrap iron prices per pound vary significantly based on material grade and market conditions. Currently, light iron (often called “shred”) trades at approximately $0.03 to $0.04 per pound, while heavy cast iron ranges from $0.06 to $0.08 per pound.
Look for a heat ring: A circular ridge on the bottom of a skillet helped it sit on wood-burning stoves and is a sign of a piece made before 1940. 2. Find a gate mark: A protrusion or scar on the bottom of a skillet is a remnant from the older casting process where molten iron was poured through a "gate".
An old clawfoot bathtub can get a new life as a quirky and beautiful planter, especially for plants with deep roots. Here's how I repurposed a vintage cast-iron tub in my garden to grow vegetables and herbs.
Cast iron baths typically weigh under 200kg, but when they first rose to popularity in the early 1900s, you could expect an average weight of around 500kg.
Cast Iron BathtubsFree Standing Cast Iron Bathtubs are very popular due to their old world charm and feel. These heavy tubs are durable and have a beautiful glossy finish. Cast iron tubs were introduced in 1880 and are still considered as a preferred material for bathtubs.
Scrap Metals We Purchase
Ferrous Scrap Metal – Common ferrous metals we purchase include cast iron, wrought iron, carbon steel and stainless steel. More tensile than their non-ferrous cousins, they are also known for being easy to work into shape, and for both their thermo-conductivity and electro-conductivity.
Copper is the leading choice in scrap metal values today. In early 2026, current prices for premium grades have surged well past $4 per pound, making it highly lucrative for waste management operations.
Cast iron is totally recyclable. Since iron is the main component of steel, you should refrain from throwing it away. Your used cast iron appliances can be melted down and crafted into something brand new, and you can even get money for it!
Sometimes you get lucky while strolling through a thrift store and find a treasured vintage cast iron pan. If you notice either an Erie or Griswold logo on the base of the pan, consider it your lucky day.
Lodge Cast Iron is the oldest and longest-running cast iron manufacturer in the United States. Originally called Blacklock, founder Joseph Lodge fired up a long-dormant railroad foundry in South Pittsburg, Tennessee in 1896.
A Favorite Piqua Ware skillet made by Favorite Stove and Range.