Griswold skillets are incredibly valuable collectibles to many skillet and cookware enthusiasts. Griswold Manufacturing Company produced cast iron cookware for over 130 years and is highly sought-after by antique collectors.
Some pieces in good condition can fetch surprisingly high prices from antique dealers and online vendors. The most popular and valuable pieces are those made before the 1950s and they are usually identifiable by the Griswold logo and “ERIE” inscribed in the bottom, which is short for the town of Erie, Pennsylvania, where the company was based.
The production of Griswold skillets ceased in the late 1950s but the legacy and fandom of the beloved skillets live on to this day. Because production was halted so long ago, only a limited number of pieces remain available making each piece a one-of-a-kind treasure.
This further increases the value of the skillet, as people often seek out rare, unique products to ‘invest’ in or collect.
Although prices and values may vary from piece to piece, due to their scarcity and historical significance, Griswold skillets are quite valuable.
What is the most valuable cast iron skillet?
The most valuable cast iron skillet would vary depending on the skillet’s brand, age, condition, and current market for similar skillets. Generally speaking, vintage skillets from reputable brands such as Wagner, Griswold, or Lodge are often the most valuable, with some rare examples selling for hundreds of dollars.
Many online resources exist to help researching the current market values of specific skillets, such as Cast Iron Collectors and antique malls with knowledgeable staff members who can offer advice. Collectors should always be prepared to pay a premium for mint condition skillets, especially rare examples.
Even newer skillets produced by established companies such as Le Creuset can be well worth the investment, depending on the construction and qualities of the skillet. Ultimately, the most valuable cast iron skillet is subjective and dependent on the collector’s interests and budget.
What year did Griswold go out of business?
Griswold Manufacturing Company went out of business in 1957. The company had been producing cast iron cookware since 1865, and its products were considered to be of the highest quality. The company’s products, specifically the famous Griswold cast iron skillet, were highly sought after and remain popular among collectors today.
Unfortunately, the Griswold family could not keep pace with increased competition and shrinking profits, and the company was sold to the Global Industries Corporation in 1957. Global Industries continued to produce Griswold cookware until 1968, when the company was sold again, this time to Wagner Manufacturing.
Wagner eventually sold the Griswold name to General Housewares Corporation in 1971, and that company continued to produce cast iron cookware under the Griswold brand until 1999.
How old is my Griswold pan?
That depends on what type of Griswold pan you’re asking about. If it is a cast iron pan, these are known for their durability, so it could be anywhere from a few decades to over a hundred years old. If it’s a vintage skillet or some other type of cookware, the age of a particular model will vary by the manufacturer and even by the type of the pan.
You can generally narrow down the age of a Griswold pan by looking at its style, or by checking its serial number. If the serial number is hard to locate, or if there’s no serial number at all, it’s likely to be quite old.
What do the letters mean on a Griswold skillet?
The letters found on a Griswold skillet indicate the size and/or model number of the skillet. The first letter typically indicates the series, followed by one or more numbers, which indicate the size.
For example, a “G10” skillet would be a Griswold Model 10 skillet. The “G” designation is typically followed by a “6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18, 20, 24 or 30,” with larger numbers indicating a larger skillet size.
The number that follows the series letter can also be followed by a letter, such as “G10C. ” This indicates that the skillet is a model 10 skillet with a cover, as opposed to a G10 skillet, which indicates a model 10 skillet without a lid.
In addition to the size letter code, Griswold skillets may also contain additional words, letters and/or numbers that describe various attributes about the skillet. For example, the word “ERIE” indicates that the skillet was made in the Griswold manufacturing plant located in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Similarly, the word “#2” indicates that the skillet is a second-series product, while the word “No. 8” indicates that the skillet is the eighth model in the series. In addition to these identifiers, there may also be other words and numbers that indicate the manufacturing process, the type of metal used or the type of handle.
When trying to identify a Griswold skillet, it is important to keep in mind that not all skillets have the same markings or codes. However, all Griswold skillets will have a series letter followed by one or more numbers, indicating the size.
Any other letters and/or numbers that accompany this code are just additional details that provide more information about the skillet.
What is the rarest Griswold?
The rarest Griswold skillet is the Griswold #12. It is circular with a large heat ring in the center. It is basically a larger version of their #8 skillet. It was made in only very small quantities and is the hardest of all the Griswold skillets to find.
Unlike most other Griswold skillets which were made over many decades, this one was only produced for a few years in the late 19th century. It is a sought-after collectible item and can often fetch a high price in antique auctions.
However, some of the more common Griswold skillets, such as the #8, can also fetch a good price due to their quality craftsmanship and popularity.
How can you tell a fake Griswold skillet?
When attempting to determine if a Griswold skillet is authentic or fake, a few key points should be carefully examined. First, inspect the handle to determine the presence of the Griswold logo. If the skillet has been well cared for, it should be easy to read the hallmark that identifies it as a genuine Griswold product.
If the handle is faded or difficult to read, it may be fake.
Next, examine the bottom of the skillet. On pieces produced since 1893, you should see the Griswold mark and the words “Erie, PA” stamped in the center. If these are missing, the skillet is most likely a fake.
Generally, the older the skillet, the more worn down the stamp and the more prevalent the staining from the hot metal. For example, the bottom of a Griswold cast-iron skillet produced before 1960 will often appear to be a smooth, dark grey color if left unpolished.
If you still have doubts about the skillet’s authenticity, you can check for other marks, such as “Gris&Co,” “Wapwallopen,” “Cleveland,” or “M #___,” imprinted into the skillet on the underside. These marks will be small and hard to make out, but usually either indicate that the skillet is a vintage piece or reveal the maker’s identity.
If a piece bears no markings at all, it is almost certainly a fake.
Finally, inspect the size, thickness and color of the skillet carefully. Genuine Griswold skillets are heavier and thicker than most other brands, and if the color of the metal is inconsistent with the maker’s known standards, it may be a fake.
Overall, the best way to tell if a Griswold skillet is fake is to educate yourself on the details of the brand’s skillets and be able to recognize a fake product. If you are unable to verify its authenticity, it is best to avoid the purchase.
How many Rusty Griswolds are there?
There is only one Rusty Griswold, who is the main character of the National Lampoon’s Vacation franchise. He is portrayed by actor Anthony Michael Hall in the first two films, with the adult version being played by actor Ed Helms in the fourth film.
Rusty is the son of Clark and Ellen Griswold, and has four siblings – an older sister, Audrey, and three younger brothers, James, Jack and the youngest, Dana. Rusty is usually portrayed as a good-natured, but clumsy and often naive teen or adult.
Throughout the Vacation series, Rusty gets into a variety of scrapes and adventures, often with disastrous outcomes, but always clearly demonstrating to viewers the importance of family.
Why do the Griswolds go to Vegas?
The Griswolds go to Vegas for the ultimate family vacation. It is the perfect getaway for the family to have a good time and bond together. They can explore the amazing casinos, exciting attractions, and incredible restaurants that Las Vegas is known for.
Additionally, it is a great chance for them to have experiences that they may never have had otherwise. From slot machines and live shows to incredible pool parties, there is plenty for the Griswolds to do and see.
It also gives them an opportunity to re-connect with each other after a hectic year. Vegas is the perfect place for them to have fun and forget the troubles of everyday life.
How do you identify cast iron markings?
Identifying cast iron markings can be a bit tricky, but with some detective work, it can be done. Depending on the age and origin of the item, identifying cast iron markings can involve deciphering letters, numbers, and symbols.
Typically, cast iron markings can be found on the bottom or backside of the item. Cast iron markings can help you to determine the age, manufacturer, and origin if the item.
When trying to identify cast iron markings, a magnifying glass can be very helpful. The markings may be small, so a magnifying glass can help to definitively decipher them. Additionally, try using a flashlight when looking at the markings.
Shifting the light around may help highlight the details of the markings and make them easier to identify.
It’s also important to look for any trademarks or logos that may be associated with a certain manufacturer. Pay special attention to any other symbols, letters, or numbers that may be associated with the item as these can help you to identify the age and origin of the cast iron item.
Once the markings are deciphered, the next step is to do some research to learn more about the item. There are numerous resources available online to help you to identify cast iron markings, such as websites and forums dedicated to antique collectors and researchers.
Additionally, antique experts or appraisers may also be able to help with identifying the item.
How big is a #5 cast iron skillet?
A #5 cast iron skillet is typically about 10. 5 inches in diameter, with a total cooking surface of about 8. 5 inches. The skillet is about 2. 5 inches deep, with a total weight of about 4. 5 pounds.
The #5 cast iron skillet is one of the larger sizes available, and is great for cooking larger amounts of food, or for spreading the heat evenly within food.
What does warp pan mean?
Warp pan is a type of camera shot used in filmmaking or videography. It is used to provide an exaggerated sense of movement and to create a sense of increase speed. It is achieved by quickly zooming a camera to a wide angle or zoom out of a shot while panning across the frame at the same time.
This gives the impression that the camera is moving through objects or at a strange speed. Warp pan is often used to show the passage of time, create a frenetic mood, or to add a dramatic effect. It can also be used to add excitement to a scene.
When did they stop making Griswold cast iron?
Griswold Manufacturing Company officially ceased operations in 1957, ending its production of cast iron cookware. However, its legacy and products live on, with a dedicated collector market for vintage pieces, and modern collectable reproductions made by Wagner, Lodge and other companies remaking many of its classic designs.
The Griswold name has become synonymous with all cast iron cookware, and is held in high regard by dedicated cooks, chefs, and collectors alike.
Why is Griswold cast iron better?
Griswold cast iron is widely regarded as the gold standard of cast iron cookware. This is because of the superior quality and craftsmanship that go into each piece of cookware. The cast iron is heated at a very high temperature and then quickly cooled with air instead of cool water.
This process, called Vitreous Enamel, creates a very dense, homogenous material that is extremely durable. Additionally, the pieces of cast iron are highly polished to ensure a perfectly non-stick surface.
These high standards and quality control processes have made Griswold cast iron some of the most beloved and cherished pieces of cookware available on the market today. Its superior heat retention and ability to crisply sear steak, poultry and whatever you may desire make it the choice of professional chefs and home cooks alike.
Does Griswold still make cast iron pans?
Yes, Griswold is still making cast iron pans today. They are well known for their durability and affordability, and are one of the most popular brands of cast iron cookware on the market. They offer a wide range of pans to fit every need, from skillets and Dutch ovens to crepe makers and griddles.
Their cast iron pans are made from simple, high-quality materials and feature durable porcelain enamel surfaces that are easy to clean and maintain. Their cookware can also be used on any type of stove, from electric to gas, making them a versatile and reliable choice for all types of cooking.