Skip to main content
Home

Main navigation

  • Free Appraisals
    • Get a Free Appraisal
    • View Appraisals
    • Local Appraisers
  • Classifieds
  • Blog
  • Shows
    • Antique Shows, Flea Markets, & Swap Meets Map
    • Upcoming Shows
User Menu
  • Login
  • Help
  • Register

Breadcrumb

  1. Home

WWII Ship hatch cover table idk exactly but roughly 24"x18". The red was a washable paint for kids art project

Profile picture for user Corey024
By Corey024, 31 May, 2025
Description

2 WWII ship hatch cover end tables. The coloring has been wiped off, condition is better than most I've seen 

Category
American Furniture
Medium
Thick wood and metal bands,
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
Idk roughly 33"x57" table top
Date Period
WWII era 1930's
History
My brother had no idea what he had for over 10 years
For Sale?
Yes
Photos
Profile picture for user NaidaTheCollector

NaidaTheCollector

2 weeks 6 days ago

WWII-Era Ship Hatch Cover End Table

Category: American Military Surplus / Reclaimed Furniture
Medium: Solid hardwood hatch cover (likely teak or mahogany), metal banding (iron or steel)
Approx. Dimensions: ~24" x 18" for end table (larger table reportedly ~33" x 57")
Estimated Date: 1930s–1940s (World War II era)
Condition: Very Good to Excellent (original structure intact, some paint residue from kids’ project appears superficial and likely removable)

Item Description:

This is a custom end table constructed from a reclaimed WWII-era naval hatch cover. Ship hatch covers from this period were built to withstand harsh marine conditions and are typically made from dense, oil-rich hardwoods such as teak or mahogany, banded with heavy-duty metal straps for structural integrity.

The distinctive characteristics—thick wooden slats, recessed handles, heavy iron hardware, and marine-grade construction—strongly suggest authentic military surplus origin. These covers were repurposed post-war into furniture items, often by returning veterans or naval shipyards, making each piece unique in craftsmanship and provenance.

Historical Background:

WWII ship hatch covers were essential structural components, used to seal ship holds and protect cargo from seawater and battle damage. After the war, many were salvaged and converted into coffee tables, desks, and end tables. Their robust construction and historical provenance have since made them highly collectible among military memorabilia enthusiasts and industrial-style decor collectors.

Market Value Estimate:

  • Retail (Restored or with Provenance): $400 – $700 USD for an end table; $900 – $1,500 USD for full-sized coffee tables.
  • As-Is (good condition, some wear): $250 – $400 USD for an end table; $600 – $1,000 USD for the larger piece.
  • Auction / Estate Market: $200 – $600 USD depending on the audience and visibility.

Prices vary based on originality, the integrity of materials, patina, and whether provenance can be documented.

Collector & Seller Notes:

  • Many collectors prefer these pieces untouched or lightly refinished to retain the patina and historical feel.
  • Cleaning the red paint (if water-soluble) could boost value, but avoid harsh chemicals.
  • Consider providing more measurements and photos of joinery or markings if you choose to list it for sale.

Recommendation:

For maximum value and exposure, list on platforms such as:

  • Chairish (vintage/industrial furniture)
  • Etsy (vintage furniture category)
  • eBay (with WWII and military tags)
  • Facebook Marketplace (local buyers interested in industrial/military furniture)

If you're unsure about exact wartime origin or wood type, a professional antique furniture appraiser or military surplus expert could authenticate and increase your asking price significantly.

No votes yet
  • Log in or register to post comments

Today’s Featured Blog

How to Start a Collection: Tips for Beginners

More Blog articles…

Recent Appraisals

  • Small curio cabinet shelf
  • 1893 Custom Maple Dresser & Full Size Bed
  • Fransican Brother Oil Painting
  • Arbaud
  • Vintage rare compact mirror
  • Vintage Wallace Berrie Hotshots Downhill Racer cartoon art
  • Frederick Remington
  • Tiberius Steps Painting by Silvani
  • Vintage Original William Fuld edition Ouija Board (with Box & Planchette) – Classic Collector’s Item
  • Ralph Lauren Vintage Jacket
See more appraisals…

Recent Appraisal Comments

  • Vintage Rustic Hanging Wall Curio Shelf
  • 1893 Custom Maple Dresser and Full-Size Bed Set
  • Painting by JosĂ© Vidal Gumbau (1920–1981)
  • 1893 Custom Maple Dresser & Full Size Bed
  • “La Nappe Fleurie” by Lucien Arbaud (2002)
  • Vintage 1960s Japanese Compact Mirror
  • “Downhill Racer” by Wallace Berrie & Co., Inc. (1975)
  • Preliminary Appraisal for Possible Frederic Remington Watercolor
  • Tiberius Steps, Capri Painting
  • Vintage William Fuld Ouija Board No. 600

Recent Blog Articles

  • How to Start a Collection: Tips for Beginners
  • Beyond the Price Tag: The Hidden Factors That Influence Antique and Collectible Value
  • Beyond the Price Tag: Unlocking the Hidden Stories in Your Family Heirlooms
  • Antiques as an Investment: Beyond the Hype, What's Actually Worth It?
  • Is it Real or Just Really Old? Your Guide to Spotting Fake Antiques (and How to Protect Yourself)
  • Beyond the Dust: Unearthing the Stories Behind Your Antiques (and Why Knowing Matters)
  • Unlocking Time's Treasures: Your Essential Vintage Watch Value Guide

More Blog articles…

© 1995- InstAppraisal™, Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide
Privacy Policy & Terms and Conditions of Use