Here are several venues where you can consider selling your antique desk: While I have not personally used any of these companies before, these are only suggestions, so please do your own research and due diligence.
1. Gates Antiques Ltd.
Specializes in 17th to early 20th-century American and English furniture. They offer appraisal, repair, and conservation services.
Description: This is a beautiful early- to mid-20th century American spinet-style writing desk, crafted in solid wood, likely mahogany or walnut. It features a flip-top lid that opens to reveal a concealed writing surface and inner compartmentalized storage with small drawers and cubbies, mimicking the look of a spinet piano. The piece includes three external drawers—two on each side and a central drawer beneath the desk surface—along with finely turned legs, a hallmark of Colonial Revival style.
Category: Antique American Furniture
Origin & Maker: Although no maker's label is visible, stamped numbers such as “23” and “C22” (seen underneath the drawer and base) suggest a factory or batch manufacturing process, typical of reputable Colonial Revival furniture makers between the 1920s and 1950s. Possible manufacturers include companies like Colonial Manufacturing Co., Drexel, or Hickory Manufacturing, known for quality reproduction furniture during this era. If confirmed, this would place the desk in the Colonial Revival period (c. 1930–1950).
Condition: The desk appears to be in excellent original condition, with minor wear consistent with age. The wood finish looks well-preserved. All mechanical elements (sliding drawers, hinged writing lid) appear intact and functional. There is some minor internal surface wear but nothing that detracts from value.
Dimensions: Estimated from image scale (please confirm for precision):
Width: ~40–45 inches
Height: ~30–32 inches
Depth: ~18–22 inches
Distinguishing Features:
Flip-top concealed writing compartment
Hidden inner cubbies and drawer
Colonial turned legs
Period-correct knobs
Stamped numbers underneath
Historical Context: Spinet desks were popular in early America and saw a revival during the Colonial Revival movement. The design appealed to mid-century homeowners who valued traditional aesthetics paired with modern functionality.
Fair Market Value (Retail):
Estimated Range: $250 – $500 USD (based on condition, age, and comparables from online antique dealers, Etsy, and LiveAuctioneers)
Auction Value: $150 – $300 USD
Insurance Replacement: $600 – $750 USD
Recommendations:
Professional Appraisal: If you plan to sell at a higher-end antique venue, or insure it, a formal appraisal from an accredited antique furniture expert is recommended.
Preservation Tip: Keep out of direct sunlight to avoid fading, and use beeswax polish occasionally to preserve the finish.
Would like to know the value…
Would like to know the value of this Spinet Writing Desk. Thank you for any help. The item is for sale in the Richmond Virginia area.
Selling Options in Richmond, VA
Selling Options in Richmond, VA
Here are several venues where you can consider selling your antique desk: While I have not personally used any of these companies before, these are only suggestions, so please do your own research and due diligence.
1. Gates Antiques Ltd.
Specializes in 17th to early 20th-century American and English furniture. They offer appraisal, repair, and conservation services.
2. West End Antiques Mall
One of Richmond's largest antique malls with over 250 booths, offering a wide range of antiques and collectibles.
3. Izzie's Consigning with Grace
A consignment store that carries a variety of furniture, including antique pieces.
4. Revival Consignment
Offers a curated selection of vintage and consigned furniture.
5. Goodstuff Consignments
An eclectic antique store with a large inventory, including furniture.
6. Cannon's Auctions
Specializes in online estate auctions and personal property sales, including antiques.
💡 Selling Tips
Antique American Spinet Writing Desk
Description:
This is a beautiful early- to mid-20th century American spinet-style writing desk, crafted in solid wood, likely mahogany or walnut. It features a flip-top lid that opens to reveal a concealed writing surface and inner compartmentalized storage with small drawers and cubbies, mimicking the look of a spinet piano. The piece includes three external drawers—two on each side and a central drawer beneath the desk surface—along with finely turned legs, a hallmark of Colonial Revival style.
Category:
Antique American Furniture
Origin & Maker:
Although no maker's label is visible, stamped numbers such as “23” and “C22” (seen underneath the drawer and base) suggest a factory or batch manufacturing process, typical of reputable Colonial Revival furniture makers between the 1920s and 1950s. Possible manufacturers include companies like Colonial Manufacturing Co., Drexel, or Hickory Manufacturing, known for quality reproduction furniture during this era. If confirmed, this would place the desk in the Colonial Revival period (c. 1930–1950).
Condition:
The desk appears to be in excellent original condition, with minor wear consistent with age. The wood finish looks well-preserved. All mechanical elements (sliding drawers, hinged writing lid) appear intact and functional. There is some minor internal surface wear but nothing that detracts from value.
Dimensions:
Estimated from image scale (please confirm for precision):
Distinguishing Features:
Historical Context:
Spinet desks were popular in early America and saw a revival during the Colonial Revival movement. The design appealed to mid-century homeowners who valued traditional aesthetics paired with modern functionality.
Fair Market Value (Retail):
Recommendations: