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.
Condition. When considering the value of vintage iron, the condition is key. Mint, like-new condition is ideal and is the most valuable. Rusted pans may be less valuable, but they can still be restored to their former glory and retain some value.
You might want to argue with me, but the best was the Griswold cast iron. These were manufactured in Erie, PA from 1865--1957. Many people collect them. I don't collect them but use them. Mine have been handed down from my family who originally purchased them in the last century.
V-2 (class 40) Gray Iron, ASTM B48:
V-2 is ideally suited for straight wear applications and possesses the highest strength, hardness, resistance to wear and heat treat response for an unalloyed gray iron.
ASTM A48 Class 20 (Related Standards – ISO 185/JL/150, SAE J431, EN-GJL-150) is a gray cast iron. Gray iron has a long history, and is one of the most widely used metallic materials. This is due to its low cost, ease of production, and unique, beneficial characteristics.
Lodge Cast Iron is the oldest and longest-running cast iron manufacturer in the United States.
Common cast iron: Common cast iron pieces, like every day skillets, waffle irons, dutch ovens, etc... are usually more expensive for three reasons: 1. Age 2. Look 3. Availability.
As a customer and avid vintage cookware enthusiast, I can confirm there's definitely a market for vintage cast-iron skillets and pots. Several reasons underlie the recent surge in their demand and subsequently their selling. First, there's a profound appreciation for the superior quality of vintage cast iron.
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.
Griswold pans, like many other vintage cast iron brands, were made with quality craftsmanship. After casting, they went through an additional step called polish-grinding, resulting in a silky-smooth surface. This not only allows for easier seasoning but also ensures an even cooking experience.
With proper care, a good cast iron pan can last for generations, becoming even better with age. Whether you're new to cast iron or just need a refresher, this care guide will help you keep your pan in top shape.
Field sizing is based on vintage cast iron conventions, so our No. 8 size means a 10 ¼" width, edge-to-edge. Dimensions: 10 ¼" diameter.
One of the most surprising valuables around your home may be cast-iron cookware. Worth from $15 to $1,500, this is stuff you rarely want to sell at a yard sale. Fortunately, cookware is usually marked on the bottom with the name of the maker and the catalog or size number.
Myth 6: Vintage is Better Than New
The Reality: The material may be the same, but the production methods have changed. In the old days, cast iron pans were produced by casting in sand-based molds, and then polishing the resulting pebbly surfaces until smooth. Vintage cast iron tends to have a satiny smooth finish.
Every Heirloom is crafted with the same care and precision found in pre-industrial cast iron. Back then, cookware was made by hand, resulting in smoother surfaces and exceptional durability. Unlike modern pans, caked in an alphabet of poisons, these objects were designed to improve with age.
Lots containing vintage cast iron can often be found at estate or antique auctions. Large cast iron collections are often sold at auction, either by the owner's heirs or by a collector who has decided to "cash out".
Cast iron fell out of favor in the 1960s and 1970s, as teflon-coated aluminum non-stick cookware was introduced and quickly became the item of choice in many kitchens.
Grey cast iron is characterised by its graphitic microstructure, which causes fractures of the material to have a grey appearance. It is the most commonly used cast iron and the most widely used cast material based on weight.
Oftentimes, the letters and numbers you'll find on the bottom of a vintage pan denote a pattern number or correspond to a particular cooking surface on a stove the pan might've been sold with, and unusual notches could be a maker's mark incorporated into the piece to identify the actual person who crafted it.