On cast iron, the number 8 indicates the mold size, originally corresponding to the size of the eye (hole) in a wood-burning stove. It does not mean the pan is 8 inches wide.
A #8 cast iron skillet is the most popular, versatile, and common size for everyday cooking. Despite its name, a modern #8 skillet measures approximately 10.25 inches (26 cm) in top diameter, with a cooking surface of about 9 inches.
Here's a quick reminder of what each size is best for: 8-inch pans are perfect for cooking small, single portions, or foods such as eggs and small batches of vegetables. 8-Inch Pan: Ideal for single servings, frying eggs, or sautéing small batches of vegetables.
Yes, old cast iron can be highly valuable, particularly as collectible cookware. While raw scrap iron is only worth about $0.06 to $0.08 per pound, well-maintained antique and vintage pieces—especially those made by sought-after makers—routinely sell to collectors for anywhere from $𝟓𝟎 to over $𝟏,𝟎𝟎𝟎.
8 cast iron skillet is made in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Lancaster No. 8 features a smooth, pre-seasoned cooking surface, a traditional stout handle, large pour spouts, a helper handle, and a lightweight yet strong construction that feels natural in any chef's hands.
"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." "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'."
The most sought-after cast iron skillets fall into three distinct categories: premium modern artisan pans, luxurious enameled options, and elusive vintage "holy grail" collectibles.
Lodge Cast Iron is the oldest and longest-running cast iron skillet manufacturer in the United States. Founded in 1896 by Joseph Lodge in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, the company has remained in continuous operation at its original Tennessee foundries for over 130 years.
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.
15 Cast-Iron Skillet Recipes
On cast iron, the number 8 indicates the mold size, originally corresponding to the size of the eye (hole) in a wood-burning stove. It does not mean the pan is 8 inches wide.
Yes, you should wash your cast iron pan after every use to remove food debris, fats, and bacteria. Contrary to popular myth, a well-seasoned pan is highly resilient, and washing it correctly won't strip away its protective, non-stick coating.
8-inch pans are perfect for cooking small, single portions, or foods such as eggs and small batches of vegetables. 10-inch pans are versatile and ideal for one to two people, useful for sautéing vegetables or cooking fish fillets.
Enjoy cooking with this vintage Griswold #8 Dutch oven and add a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen decor. This vintage cast iron Dutch oven by Griswold is a two-piece set that includes a lid and has a 4.5 Qts capacity.
The Lancaster No. 8 cast iron skillet is made in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The Lancaster No. 8 features a smooth, pre-seasoned cooking surface, a traditional stout handle, large pour spouts and a lightweight yet strong construction that feels natural in any chef's hands.
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.
Avoid cooking highly acidic foods, delicate fish, strong-smelling dishes, and sticky foods (like eggs) in cast iron. These can strip your pan’s seasoning, leach metallic flavors into your food, or leave behind lingering odors.
How can you tell if a pan is cast iron or a fake?
Valuable cast iron is typically vintage cookware produced by renowned early 20th-century manufacturers. High-demand pieces from brands like Griswold, Wapak, and Wagner feature specific logos, rare sizing (like sizes 2 or 13), or unique artistic branding. Authentic rarities routinely resell for hundreds or thousands of dollars.
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.
To make $100 from scrap aluminum, you need anywhere from 55 to 200 pounds, depending on your local scrap yard’s payout rate.
The "best" vintage cast iron brands (predating the 1960s) are prized for their ultra-smooth, polished cooking surfaces, which are noticeably lighter and less porous than modern cast iron.
The first forms of cookware were made of clay or stone and were used to cook food on fire.
The best oil for seasoning cast iron is one that is refined, neutral, and has a high smoke point (above 400∘F400 raised to the composed with power F400∘F / 204∘C204 raised to the composed with power C204∘C). Top choices include grapeseed oil, avocado oil, and canola oil. These oils polymerize effectively into a durable, non-stick layer without leaving a sticky residue.