Humpty Dumpty Egg Crate Value Guide

The Humpty Dumpty Egg Crate is a significant piece of American agricultural history, patented in 1901 by the Cummer Manufacturing Company. These slatted wooden crates were highly innovative for their collapsible design, which allowed farmers to save space during the return trip from market.

What Is Humpty Dumpty Egg Crate Worth?

The typical price range for Humpty Dumpty Egg Crate is $75 - $85 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Presence and legibility of the original 'Humpty Dumpty' stenciling or graphics.
• Overall structural integrity of the wood slats and the functionality of the folding wire hinges.
• Inclusion of original interior cardboard dividers, which are often missing or damaged.
• The condition of the steel handle and lack of excessive rust or wood rot.

How to Identify Humpty Dumpty Egg Crate?

• Look for the 'Humpty Dumpty' brand name stenciled or stamped directly onto the wooden slats.
• Verify the collapsible mechanism consisting of wire hinges and a sturdy steel carrying handle.
• Check for the manufacturer's mark indicating the Cummer Manufacturing Company of Cadillac, Michigan.
• Examine the wood for the specific slatted construction designed to hold 12 dozen eggs.

History of Humpty Dumpty Egg Crate

Patented in 1901 by the Cummer Manufacturing Company in Cadillac, Michigan, the Humpty Dumpty Egg Crate revolutionized farm-to-table logistics. These crates featured a collapsible design to save space when empty and often contained cardboard dividers. They were manufactured in various sizes, most commonly holding 12 dozen eggs, and were a staple of rural American commerce throughout the early 20th century.