When people ask, “How much is Pennsylvania House furniture worth?” they’re often hoping to discover whether that vintage dresser in the attic or the dining set in grandma’s house holds real value. The answer? It depends—but you might be pleasantly surprised.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about valuing this iconic American furniture brand, from history to resale trends and practical valuation tips.
Understanding Pennsylvania House Furniture Legacy
Pennsylvania House Furniture was established in the early 20th century and quickly became synonymous with quality American craftsmanship. Known for their use of solid hardwoods like cherry, maple, and oak, the company produced elegant, durable furniture with timeless appeal.
Until the early 2000s, the Pennsylvania House was considered a premium brand, often passed down through generations. In 2005, it was acquired by La-Z-Boy, which eventually phased out the brand name. That means no new pieces are being produced, making existing ones more valuable to collectors and vintage lovers.
Key Factors That Influence the Value
Valuing Pennsylvania House furniture involves understanding multiple factors, not just age. Here’s what matters:
Age and Manufacturing Date
Older pieces, especially those made before the 1980s, are typically more valuable, especially if well-maintained. Mid-century styles and pieces with original labels or paperwork fetch a higher price.
Original Craftsmanship and Materials
Pennsylvania House used solid wood construction, dovetail joints, and hand-finished details. Furniture made from cherry wood or rare oak tends to command a premium in the resale market.
Design Style (Colonial, Traditional, etc.)
Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, and Early American styles are particularly popular. A well-kept cherry wood Queen Anne highboy, for example, can be worth over $1,000.
Popular Pennsylvania House Collections and Their Current Value
Dining Room Sets
A full cherry dining set with table, six chairs, and a hutch can range from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the condition and location.
Bedroom Furniture
Four-poster beds, dressers, and armoires typically sell between $800 and $2,500. The cherry wood sets with ornate detailing are the most sought-after.
Living Room Pieces
Sofas, coffee tables, and cabinets generally bring in lower values—around $300 to $900—but matching sets or rare designs can bump that figure up.
How to Determine the Value of Your Furniture
Identifying Original Labels and Markings
Look for the Pennsylvania House brand stamp or brass plaque, usually found inside drawers or underneath chairs and tables. These original markings help authenticate and boost value.
Using Antique Appraisal Services
Sites like LiveAuctioneers or hiring a local certified appraiser can provide accurate valuations. It’s especially useful for rare or full sets.
Real-World Examples of Resale and Auction Prices
Here are a few actual listings and auction results to give you an idea:
| Item Description | Condition | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry Dining Table with 6 Chairs | Excellent | $2,100 |
| Colonial Style Bedroom Set | Good | $1,600 |
| Tallboy Chest (Queen Anne) | Fair | $950 |
| Maple Sideboard | Excellent | $875 |
These examples show that how much Pennsylvania House furniture is worth can vary, but well-maintained pieces fetch strong resale prices.
Where to Sell Pennsylvania House Furniture
Online Marketplaces (eBay, Etsy, etc.)
eBay and Facebook Marketplace are great for national and local sales. Be sure to use clear images and mention original tags and condition.
Local Antique Shops and Consignment Stores
These venues often attract buyers specifically looking for vintage American-made furniture. Consignment stores may take a commission but provide wider exposure.
Restoration vs. Original Condition: What Adds More Value?
In most cases, an original finish in good condition is more valuable than a poorly done restoration. Minor scratches? Leave them. Major damage? Consider professional refinishing only.
Tips to Maximize the Value Before Selling
- Clean and polish with appropriate wood care products.
- Take high-resolution photos from all angles.
- Document provenance (purchase date, original location).
- Sell matching sets together for a higher combined value.
Red Flags: When Pennsylvania House Furniture Might Not Be Worth Much
- Heavy damage or mold
- Pieces that have been repainted or modified
- Missing parts (drawers, legs, etc.)
- No identifiable markings
Comparison with Other Traditional American Furniture Brands
Ethan Allen vs. Pennsylvania House
Both are high-quality brands, but Pennsylvania House often used thicker solid wood and more intricate joinery. Ethan Allen may fetch slightly higher prices in urban markets.
Drexel Heritage vs. Pennsylvania House
Drexel Heritage has a more modern aesthetic in later pieces. Pennsylvania House remains more collectible for traditional lovers.
The Future Value: Is It a Good Investment?
Because production has stopped and demand for quality vintage furniture is growing, Pennsylvania House pieces may appreciate over time. Their classic styles make them appealing in both traditional and modern homes, especially with the ongoing sustainability trend.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my furniture is real Pennsylvania House?
Look for the engraved logo or brass plaque, often inside drawers or underneath pieces.
2. Is Pennsylvania House furniture considered antique?
If the item is over 100 years old, it’s technically an antique. Most pieces are vintage (20–80 years old), which still holds value.
3. Does refinishing reduce the value?
Usually, yes—unless done by a professional and the piece was in very poor condition beforehand.
4. Where can I appraise my furniture for free?
You can start with online appraisal tools or forums like Reddit’s r/whatsthisworth or antiques appraisers on eBay.
5. Can I sell Pennsylvania House furniture locally?
Absolutely. Facebook Marketplace and local consignment shops are great places to start.
6. Is it worth holding onto for future resale?
If you’re not in a rush, yes—especially for matching sets or cherry wood pieces, which may grow in value.
Conclusion: Knowing the Worth of What You Own
Pennsylvania House furniture isn’t just wood and polish—it’s a piece of American heritage. Whether you’re evaluating an old family heirloom or looking to invest in quality furniture, understanding the worth of these timeless pieces empowers you to make informed decisions.
So, the next time someone asks you, “How much is Pennsylvania House furniture worth?” you’ll know exactly where to start—and maybe even help someone else rediscover the charm of vintage American craftsmanship.
