Chair

Item Description:

This is an early 20th-century American swivel office or banker’s chair, most likely manufactured between 1900 and 1930. It is made of solid oak, with a curved seat, slatted back, and four splayed legs ending in brass-colored casters (replacements). The chair uses a steel or cast iron swivel mechanism beneath the seat and is assembled with slotted screws, indicative of early machine-made furniture prior to the widespread use of Phillips screws (which became common post-1935).

Historical Context:

This type of chair was commonly used in banks, libraries, post offices, and commercial offices during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods into the early 20th century. Often referred to as a "banker’s chair" or typist’s chair, it was designed to swivel and provide ergonomic support for clerical or writing tasks. The numbered metal inlay on the backrest (label “78”) suggests it may have been part of an institutional or municipal inventory (e.g., courtroom, school, or government office).

Construction Details:

• Wood: Solid oak (visible grain and age patina)
• Joinery: Assembled with slotted screws, no mortise and tenon or dowel joinery visible
• Base: Four curved legs with caster wheels (not original)
• Mechanism: Swivel-only (not a tilt/swivel), likely cast iron hardware
• Finish: Appears to be worn or partially stripped; could be original shellac or early lacquer

Condition:

• Overall: Fair, structurally intact
• Seat: Worn with some discoloration and surface scratching
• Finish: Uneven wear, consistent with age
• Hardware: Functional but with replacement casters (Phillips screws indicate modern replacements)

Estimated Value (as-is):

• Retail/Decorative Market: $75–$150 USD
• Restored Condition: $175–$300 USD
• Auction/Flea Market: $50–$100 USD
• Institutional Provenance or Matching Set: Higher value possible if linked to a known location

Recommendations:

• Preservation: Clean gently with wood-safe cleaner. Avoid harsh refinishing unless necessary.
• Restoration: Consider professional reconditioning of the finish and replacing casters with reproduction antique casters to enhance value.
• Professional Appraisal: If provenance can be established (e.g., courthouse or school records), a formal appraisal may yield a higher valuation.

Collector Appeal:

This chair has appeal to:

• Office furniture collectors
• Industrial/steampunk interior designers
• Restoration hobbyists
• Americana and institutional history collectors