What do numbers on cast iron mean?
The number actually refers to the diameter of the pan in inches across the bottom of the pan, not across its flared top, which is the industry standard way to measure skillet size. According to Lodge: “The 10 comes the days from when cast-iron pots and pans were sized to fit on the numbered eyes of a woodstove.
What are gate marks on cast iron?
A gate mark appears as a raised scar or slash across the bottom of pans. Gate marked pans typically do not have the manufacturer’s name on them. Gate marked pans are the oldest of the old cast iron cookware; almost certainly antique. The gate mark is a remnant of the casting process that was used in the 1800’s.
Can you use PAM on cast-iron?
Do not try to use nonstick sprays like Pam to season your cast iron skillet, as they contain other ingredients that aren’t good for your pan. No more trying to pour oil into the pan and pouring too much. And goodbye to excess oil that gets sticky if stored too long on the pan.
Is cast iron worth anything?
The value of antique cast iron skillets can start at similar to new prices, but a super rare Wagner or Griswold can fetch up to $1,500 apiece. A mint condition, super rare “spider skillet” made in the 1890s by Griswold is worth up to $8,000. If your pan was made before 1957, it’s considered vintage cast iron.
How can you tell if cast iron is good?
And you can immediately tell the difference. A newish cast iron pan feels rough to the touch. A well-seasoned one is so slick that eggs will slide around on it just like in a nonstick pan. Though most new cast iron comes pre-seasoned, there are typically only one or two layers of seasoning on there.
What cast-iron is worth the most?
With antique cast iron, there are certain numbers that are very common and some that are very rare.
- Numbers #3, 6, and 8 are not considered collectible.
- The most desirable pan is #1 – they’re super rare and worth $1,000 each, despite their small size.
Is cast-iron worth money?
One of the most surprising valuables around your home may be cast-iron cookware. Worth from $15 to $1,500, this is stuff you rarely want to sell at a yard sale. Fortunately, cookware is usually marked on the bottom with the name of the maker and the catalog or size number.
Why did they put numbers on cast iron pans?
As cast iron manufacture became a national (and subsequently international) enterprise, systems were necessary to insure all parties involved knew exactly what was being bought and sold. In the case of Griswold, in addition to model or item numbers, “pattern numbers” were devised, ostensibly unique to each model, size, and type of pan produced.
Who are the manufacturers of cast iron skillets?
Smithey Ironware Company. Founded: 2015; The Smithey Ironware Company manufactures cast-iron skillets (10-inch and 12-inch) in Charleston, South Carolina. Smithey skillets are carried in specialty shops across the United States and may also be purchased online. Butter Pat Industries. Founded: 2013
Which is the best brand of cast iron cookware?
Pieces bearing this “Indian logo” are the most prized by collectors of Wapak Hollow Ware today. Le Creuset is a French cookware manufacturer best known for its colorful enameled cast-iron casseroles and dutch ovens, which the company calls “French Ovens.”
Where are the cast iron stoves and ranges made?
The company continues to promote and produce Wagner products, under the Wagner and Griswold brands; however, new Wagner cast iron has not been produced since the Sidney foundry was closed in 1999. In 1887 the Favorite Stove & Range Company moved to Piqua, Ohio, from Cincinnati, Ohio.
