Mid-Century Modern Standing Ashtray Value Guide

This Mid-Century Modern standing ashtray is a quintessential example of 1950s-1970s American functional decor, blending brass, wood, and amber glass. Its popularity stems from an era when smoking accessories were central to social interior design, reflecting the period's signature focus on mixed materials and clean lines.

What Is Mid-Century Modern Standing Ashtray Worth?

The typical price range for Mid-Century Modern Standing Ashtray is $95 - $95 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the amber glass insert, as chips or cracks significantly reduce the $95 market value.
• The integrity of the brass-tone finish, specifically looking for signs of pitting, corrosion, or heavy oxidation.
• The preservation of the wooden pedestal, including the presence of original varnish and lack of water damage or warping.
• Completeness of the assembly, ensuring the top mechanism and base weight are original and functional.

How to Identify Mid-Century Modern Standing Ashtray?

• Look for the characteristic thick-walled amber glass insert designed to withstand heat and minimize ash visibility.
• Examine the pedestal for a genuine wood grain finish paired with a weighted brass-tone base for stability.
• Check the top assembly for a mechanical lever or specific brass-tone cigarette rests typical of mid-century US manufacturing.
• Verify the height and silhouette, which should align with standard 1950-1970 floor-standing furniture proportions.

History of Mid-Century Modern Standing Ashtray

Standing ashtrays became popular in the early to mid-20th century, particularly during the Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern eras, when smoking was a widespread social activity. They were common fixtures in homes, offices, and public spaces, often designed to be both functional and decorative. This specific style, with its combination of materials, reflects the aesthetic trends of the Mid-Century Modern period, emphasizing clean lines and mixed materials.