Picnic Basket Value & Price Guide

Vintage picnic baskets are more than just storage; they are nostalgic symbols of mid-century leisure and outdoor Americana. From classic woven wood to specialized metal refrigerator models, these collectibles offer both functional use and charming rustic decor for enthusiasts.

Price Range: $75 - $85 based on recent sales

History of Picnic Basket

The evolution of the picnic basket mirrors the rise of American car culture and the middle-class pursuit of weekend getaways during the early to mid-20th century. Companies like the Burlington Basket Company, famous for their Hawkeye line, revolutionized the market by introducing 'refrigerator' baskets lined with metal to keep food cold, catering to the needs of long-distance travelers. By the 1950s and 60s, brands like Redmon and Shelton dominated the market with colorful woven wood designs that became staples of family outings. While early 1900s models focused on heavy-duty utility, the later mid-century era shifted toward aesthetic appeal, utilizing materials like bamboo, wicker, and even lithographed metal. Today, these pieces are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate the craftsmanship of heritage brands like Peterboro and the timeless appeal of the classic American picnic.

Value Factors for Picnic Basket

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

• Brand Recognition: Established names like Hawkeye, Redmon, and Basketville typically command higher prices than generic vintage wicker.
• Material and Construction: Rare metal-lined 'refrigerator' baskets or sturdy woven-wood designs generally hold more value than mass-produced 1980s plastic-accented versions.
• Condition and Age: Baskets from the 1910s-1930s in excellent condition are rare and fetch a premium compared to more common 1970s and 80s models.
• Completeness: The presence of original fitted compartments, leather straps, and period-correct dining accessories can double the market price of a standard basket.

Tips for Buying Picnic Basket

• Check for structural integrity in the handles and hinges, as these are the most common points of failure in vintage woven wood and wicker models.
• Look for original interior liners or complete accessory sets, such as matching plates and cutlery, which significantly increase the desirability of brands like Hawkeye or Redmon.
• Inspect the bottom of the basket for moisture damage or rot, especially in older bamboo or thin-slat wood baskets from the 1940s and 50s.
• Prioritize baskets with original manufacturer tags or stamps, such as the 'Basketville Putney Vermont' mark, to ensure authenticity and higher resale value.

Items in This Collection

• Wicker Picnic Basket Value & Price Guide
• Vintage Wicker Picnic Basket
• Basketville Picnic Basket
• Vintage Woven Wood Picnic Basket
• Hawkeye Refrigerator Picnic Basket
• Shelton Picnic Basket
• Hawkeye Picnic Basket Value & Price Guide
• Redmon Picnic Basket
• Red-man Picnic Basket Value & Price Guide
• Vintage Metal Picnic Basket
• Vintage Picnic Basket
• Basketville Putney Vermont Picnic Basket
• Vintage Bamboo Picnic Basket
• Eddie Bauer Picnic Basket
• Peterboro Picnic Basket
• Wov-N-Wood Picnic Basket
• Peterboro Basket Company Picnic Basket
• Picnic Time Catalina Picnic Basket
• Woven Wood Picnic Basket