6 Valuable 1900s Interior Antiques (Plus 4 Hidden Gems That Are Worth A Fortune)
A dusty lamp on a side table. A faded mirror with intricate trim. Could these be worth more than they seem? Antiques from the early 1900s aren’t just relics of another time – they often carry real monetary value.
As tastes shift and craftsmanship from the turn of the century becomes harder to find, certain pieces quietly climb in demand.
What should you be looking for? And which overlooked objects could actually be worth thousands? This list breaks down the standouts and a few surprises from the interiors of the past that still hold strong appeal – and serious value – today.
1. Victorian Parlor Chairs
Elegant curved backs and intricately carved details make these chairs instantly recognizable. Victorian parlor chairs often feature velvet or silk upholstery in rich jewel tones.
Authentic pieces from reputable makers like Belter or Meeks can command prices between $2,000-$5,000 per chair. Look for original upholstery and intact woodwork when evaluating value.
2. Tiffany Lamps
Colorful stained glass masterpieces that transform any room with their warm, magical glow. Louis Comfort Tiffany revolutionized lighting with his nature-inspired designs.
Tiffany lamps regularly sell for $20,000 to over $1 million at auction. Even reproduction pieces from the early 1900s can fetch thousands. The most valuable feature dragonfly or wisteria patterns.
3. Eastlake Dressers
Square corners and geometric patterns distinguish these sturdy bedroom pieces. Charles Eastlake’s furniture movement rejected overly ornate Victorian styles for simpler, more functional designs.
Original hardware and intact mirror frames significantly boost value. Well-preserved Eastlake dressers typically sell between $800-$3,000, with walnut pieces commanding higher prices than oak or pine versions.
4. Oak Roll-Top Desks
Functional masterpieces with dozens of cubbyholes hiding behind that signature rolling tambour cover. These substantial office pieces symbolized success and prosperity in early 20th-century businesses and homes.
Quality examples from manufacturers like Cutler or Derby typically sell between $2,500-$8,000. The most valuable feature original finish, working locks with keys, and all interior compartments intact.
5. Hand-Knotted Persian Rugs
Exquisite floor coverings that took skilled artisans months or even years to complete. Each region produced distinctive patterns – from geometric Heriz designs to floral Isfahans.
Early 1900s Persian rugs in good condition regularly sell for $5,000-$25,000 depending on size, knot count, and rarity. Natural dyes, tight weaving, and minimal wear significantly increase value.
6. Cast Iron Doorstops
Charming figurines that served a practical purpose while adding personality to early 20th-century homes. Animals, flowers, and fictional characters were popular themes for these heavy household helpers.
Rare designs or those with original paint can surprise collectors with values of $500-$2,000. The most sought-after include full-figure dogs, Uncle Sam, and certain flower baskets. Condition and paint integrity dramatically affect price.
7. Art Nouveau Mirrors
Flowing, organic lines inspired by nature make these mirrors true artistic statements. Whiplash curves and asymmetrical designs characterize this distinctive style that flourished between 1890-1910.
Bronze or brass frames with floral motifs are especially desirable. Signed pieces by designers like Gaillard or Majorelle can sell for $5,000-$15,000, while even unsigned quality examples regularly fetch $1,000-$3,000.
8. Bakelite Light Switches And Hardware
Revolutionary early plastic that transformed home fixtures with its durability and versatility. Bakelite hardware came in rich brown, black, and occasionally ivory colors that develop a distinctive patina over time.
Original switch plates, doorknobs, and electrical fixtures from the early 1900s command surprising prices from restoration enthusiasts. Complete sets in working condition can sell for $200-$500 per piece.
9. Antique Mantel Clocks
Stately timekeepers that once served as the proud centerpiece of parlor fireplace displays. Materials ranged from carved wood to marble, brass, and porcelain with movements from respected makers like Seth Thomas and Ansonia.
Working clocks with original movements typically sell between $300-$3,000 depending on maker and condition. Those with Westminster chimes or unusual case designs command premium prices among serious collectors.
10. Early 20th-Century Wallpaper Rolls
Preserved decorative treasures that capture the artistic styles of a bygone era. Unused vintage wallpaper rolls from companies like Zuber or Morris & Co. have become surprisingly valuable collectibles.
Art Nouveau and Arts & Crafts patterns are especially prized, often selling for $300-$1,000 per roll. The most valuable feature hand-printed designs, metallic accents, or rare colorways that can’t be reproduced with modern techniques.
