Lane Cedar Hope Chest Value Guide

The Lane Cedar Hope Chest is a quintessential piece of mid-20th century Americana, prized for its ability to preserve linens and clothing using moth-repellent cedar lining. These chests became iconic as 'marriage chests,' featuring distinctive decorative carved front panels and sturdy turned bun feet that define the 1940-1970 era.

What affects the value of Lane Cedar Hope Chest?

• Overall condition of the exterior wood finish and the aromatic potency of the interior cedar lining.
• Presence of original hardware and the safety status of the lock, as older models often require latch replacements for safety compliance.
• The complexity and preservation of the decorative carved front panel and the structural integrity of the bun feet.
• Market demand for specific 1940-1970 styles, with well-maintained units typically fetching between $60 and $150.

How to Identify Lane Cedar Hope Chest?

• Look for the 'Lane' brand mark usually stamped inside the lid or on the interior base.
• Verify the presence of a genuine aromatic cedar wood lining and original metal hardware.
• Check for the signature mid-century design elements including the decorative carved front panel and turned bun feet.
• Locate the serial number often stamped on the back or bottom, which can be read backward to determine the production date.

History of Lane Cedar Hope Chest

Cedar chests became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as storage for linens and clothing; manufacturers like Lane began mass-producing them mid-20th century. Lane Furniture introduced the iconic cedar hope chest with stamped or carved fronts and turned bun feet, marketed as a marriage or blanket chest and prized for its cedar-lined interior which repels moths and preserves fabrics.