Underwriters Laboratories Bankers Lamp Value Guide

This mid-century Underwriters Laboratories Bankers Lamp is a quintessential example of 1950s office decor, distinguished by its warm amber cased glass shade rather than the traditional emerald green. These lamps are highly collectible for their blend of industrial utility and residential warmth, representing a specific era of American clerical design.

What affects the value of Underwriters Laboratories Bankers Lamp?

• Condition of the amber glass shade, as chips or cracks significantly reduce the $125-$135 market value.
• The patina of the brass pedestal, with original, unpolished finishes often commanding higher prices from collectors.
• Functionality of the original electrical components and the integrity of the internal wiring.
• Rarity of the amber color variation compared to the more common green Emeralite-style shades.

How to Identify Underwriters Laboratories Bankers Lamp?

• Check for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) metallic sticker or embossed mark on the underside of the brass pedestal base.
• Verify the shade is authentic cased glass, which should show a white interior layer fused to the amber exterior.
• Examine the brass base for the specific mid-century weighted design characteristic of 1950-1960 production.
• Look for the pull-chain switch mechanism, which was the standard functional component for this era's task lighting.

History of Underwriters Laboratories Bankers Lamp

Commonly known as a 'Banker's Lamp,' this style of lighting originated in the early 20th century with the Emeralite brand. The rectangular glass shade was designed to reduce eye strain for those performing meticulous clerical work, such as accounting or banking. While the classic version used green glass, the amber variations became popular in the mid-century as a warmer alternative for residential home offices.