COLLECTING & IDENTIFICATION
Wondering what you have? A name or number on the bottom can be a useful clue, but identifying vintage cookware often means looking at the whole piece. GCICA welcomes first-time collectors and longtime researchers alike.
START WITH YOUR PIECE
- Photograph it clearly. Include the cooking surface, underside, handle, lid, and any markings.
- Write down what you see. Note names, logos, letters, numbers, and measurements.
- Look at its shape. The handle, heat ring, pour spouts, lid, and overall form can help narrow an identification.
- Compare more than one clue. A single feature may not establish a maker or date.
COMMON IDENTIFICATION QUESTIONS
A size number and a pattern number serve different purposes. A size number such as 8 does not automatically mean an 8-inch pan. Compare the complete markings, shape, and measurements with a documented reference.
A patent date can refer to a protected design or feature. It does not necessarily give the manufacturing year. Compare the markings and form with dated catalogs and other documented examples.
Sometimes. Compare its dimensions, handle, base, and overall form with documented catalog illustrations. Keep an identification tentative when the evidence is limited, and ask fellow collectors for help.
Adapted from the 2006 GCICA Handbook, historical reading copy.
ROY MEADOWS SKILLET IDENTIFICATION CHARTS
Compare ERIE characteristics and pattern-maker marks, the ERIE–Griswold–Victor timeline, and Griswold skillet sizes and pattern numbers.
View or download the enhanced charts (PDF · 5 pages)
Member sign-in required. Created by Roy Meadows and shared with his permission.
Search the archive for individual chart topics and related research.
EXPLORE THE REFERENCES
- Google Patents — Have a patent number or date? Look up the original patent and compare the drawings and description with your piece.
- Griswold Cookware identification articles — Illustrated discussions of marks, patterns, and other clues.
- ERIE Skillets by Roy Meadows — A study of ERIE skillet variations published by the Wagner and Griswold Society.
- Griswold Pattern Number Reference — Search 1,768 entries compiled by Lee Lasher (April 22, 2022), or download the PDF. Member sign-in is required.
- GCICA newsletter archive — Past research and collecting articles. Member sign-in is required.
REPRODUCTIONS AND FAKES
GCICA’s Appraisals and Reproduction Committee has posted lists from the 1998 and 2008 GCICA handbooks documenting reproductions and related concerns identified at those times. This is a starting point; more pieces and research may be identified. A piece’s absence from an older list does not establish authenticity. The committee page requires member sign-in.
For a reproduction question, concern, or new finding, post in the GCICA Members and Friends Facebook group rather than emailing the committee or chair. Include clear photographs of the piece and its markings, dimensions, and any supporting history or sources. Facebook sign-in and group approval may be required.
You can also browse Griswold Cookware’s reproduction articles for additional examples.
APPRAISALS AND VALUE QUESTIONS
GCICA does not provide appraisals, estimated values, price quotes, or valuation letters, including by email. Our committee focuses on research and education.
For informal collector discussion of market value, visit the independent How Much Is My Cast Iron Worth? Facebook group. Group opinions are not GCICA appraisals or verified values. Facebook sign-in and group approval may be required; follow the group’s rules.
For insurance, estate, probate, tax, donation, legal, or other documentation needs, engage an independent qualified appraiser and confirm the requirements with the requesting organization.
ASK FELLOW COLLECTORS
Share photographs and questions with the GCICA Members and Friends group (Facebook sign-in and group approval may be required), or meet collectors at GCICA events.