Identifying old pans

[Charles Boyle]

I found an old skillet at an estate sale. It doesn't have a brand name or any markings, it was just a smooth bottom and a nice old look. I think it might be from before the 1950s, but I'm not sure how to tell for sure.

The handle looks a bit different from others I've seen though. it has a small ridge, and the pour spouts are more rounded than usual. Has anyone seen one like this or know how to figure out the age of unmarked pans? Thanks!

 

[crispycrustking]

Those old skillets with the smooth bottoms and round spouts? They're probably from before the 1950s and might be from a small shop or a store brand. Take a look for any marks from where they were made, the shape of the handle, and how well it's made. The Pan Mastery guide and other sites can be useful to identify them.

 

[fafaithee20]

Look at the bottom for a raised gate mark, that means it's likely from before the 1890s. If there's a raised ring around the edge, it's probably from the 1900s-1930s.

 

[grokman]

Pre 1950 pans usually have a super smooth cooking surface and no heat ring (or a very thin one). If you post a picture of the handle and bottom, folks here could probably narrow it down fast