How do you find the value of old Lane cedar chests?

To find the value of Lane cedar chests, have the chest appraised by a local antique dealer, or compare the chest to similar chests on an auction website such as eBay.com. Appraisers determine the value based on the rarity, age and condition of the chest.

Determine the age of the chest by looking at the serial number, which is also the manufacturing date. The serial number consists of a one- or two-digit month, a one- or two-digit day, and a two-digit year. Older chests in good condition, without aftermarket paint or additions, fetch the highest prices. Lane issued a safety recall for original latches on chests made before 1987, so replacing the latches on those chests actually increases the value.