How to research and date a vintage find

Step by step

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   Step 1: Look for marks

   Check bases, backs, inside drawers and under lids for maker's marks, labels, patent numbers and stamps. Photograph them clearly.

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   Step 2: Read the clues

   Prices in pounds, shillings and pence mean before decimal currency in 1967. Imperial measurements usually mean before metrication in the 1970s. Phillips head screws, staples and plastics help date furniture.

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   Step 3: Search New Zealand collections

   Search the maker or item on Papers Past for old advertisements, DigitalNZ, Te Papa Collections Online and the Auckland Museum online collection. Adverts often show the price and year.

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   Step 4: Check the construction

   Hand cut dovetails, solid timber versus particle board, and how things are joined all tell you about age and quality.

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   Step 5: Compare sold prices

   Look at completed sales, not asking prices. Use the Junkie price guide and recent sales of similar items in the same condition.

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   Step 6: Ask the community

   Post photos in the identification forum. Junkie members love a mystery.