Home >> Hobbies >> Antiquing

What Is the Value of My Antique Veneer Vanity?

Antique vanities, small dressing tables where a woman sits to do her hair and makeup, were made during the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. Many of the veneered models seen today in antique stores and at local auctions are from the early 20th century. The value of antique veneered vanities depends on the age, condition, and type of wood.

Value
- Antique veneer vanities are generally valued from $250 to $1,500. Many variables impact the value. In a yard sale, you might find a veneer vanity for $20 but at Sotheby's, a high-end auction company, a rare or highly decorative antique vanity might sell for thousands, or occasionally, even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Date and Country Factors
- The older an antique veneer vanity, the higher the value. Additionally, antique vanities from England, France, and Germany are generally worth more than American pieces.
Condition Factors
- If the antique vanity has been stored and used gently, the value increases. However, veneer damages easily. If pieces or strips of veneer are missing, the value decreases significantly. Other damage such as repaired or replaced legs, feet, or drawer pulls also impacts the value.
Material Considerations
- Certain woods used in the construction of an antique veneer vanity increase the value. Tiger eye maple or burl wood, for example, would make the antique worth more than walnut or plain maple.
Related Items
- If the antique vanity has its original mirror or stool, the value increases. These items are often lost over the years so a vanity accompanied by a mirror or stool is considered less common, more unique, and therefore more valuable.

Antiquing