Perko Ships Lantern Value Guide

Manufactured by the Perkins Marine Lamp and Hardware Corp., these brass lanterns represent a pinnacle of early 20th-century American maritime safety. They are highly collectible due to their robust construction and their historical role as essential port or starboard navigation tools for mid-century vessels.

What Is Perko Ships Lantern Worth?

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

• The presence of original, undamaged colored glass lenses significantly increases the market value.
• The condition of the brass patina, where original unpolished surfaces are often preferred by serious maritime collectors.
• Completeness of the internal components, such as the original oil burner or early electrical conversion fittings.
• The clarity and legibility of the Perkins Marine Lamp and Hardware Corp. identification marks.

How to Identify Perko Ships Lantern?

• Look for the 'PERKO' brand name stamped directly into the brass housing or on a riveted manufacturer's plate.
• Check for original red (port) or green (starboard) Fresnel glass lenses, which are thicker and designed to magnify light.
• Examine the base and font for authentic 1920-1950 era construction, often featuring heavy brass casting rather than thin stamped metal.
• Verify the presence of original mounting brackets or a heavy wire handle used for securing the lantern to the ship's rigging.

History of Perko Ships Lantern

Perkins Marine Lamp and Hardware Corp., known as Perko, has been a leading manufacturer of marine hardware and lighting since 1907. Their lanterns were essential for safe navigation, ensuring vessels could be seen and identified at sea. These robust brass lanterns were built to withstand harsh marine environments and are now highly sought after by collectors for their historical significance and decorative appeal.