Lincoln Style Rocking Chair Value Guide

The Lincoln Style Rocking Chair is a quintessential piece of American Victorian furniture, gaining its name from the walnut rocker Abraham Lincoln occupied at Ford's Theatre. These chairs are highly collectible for their historical association and the elegant craftsmanship of the late 19th century.

What Is Lincoln Style Rocking Chair Worth?

The typical price range for Lincoln Style Rocking Chair is $250 - $275 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The condition of the carved walnut frame, specifically looking for original finish and lack of structural repairs.
• The quality and age of the velvet upholstery, with original fabric or period-appropriate restorations commanding higher prices.
• Presence of original internal materials like horsehair padding versus modern foam replacements.
• Overall stability and the integrity of the rocking mechanism and joints.

How to Identify Lincoln Style Rocking Chair?

• Look for a high oval back frame crafted from solid walnut with delicate Victorian-era carvings.
• Authentic period examples typically feature original horsehair padding beneath the upholstery.
• Examine the rocker rails and frame for construction techniques consistent with the 1860-1890 era.
• Identify the specific 'Lincoln' silhouette characterized by the upholstered seat, back, and armrests set within an exposed wood frame.

History of Lincoln Style Rocking Chair

Commonly known as the Lincoln Rocker, this style gained enduring fame after President Abraham Lincoln was seated in a similar walnut upholstered rocker during his assassination at Ford's Theatre in 1865. The style features delicate Victorian carvings and an ergonomic design for the mid-19th century.