Aluminum: Hand-Wrought & Hammered Decorative Metalware
What Is Collectible Aluminum?
Collectible aluminum refers primarily to hand-wrought and hammered decorative aluminum giftware produced in the United States from the 1930s through the 1960s. While aluminum was once rarer and more precious than gold in the 19th century, the development of the Hall-Heroult electrolytic process in 1886 made it affordable. By the 1930s, dozens of American companies were producing elegant serving trays, bowls, pitchers, and decorative items in hand-finished aluminum that combined beauty with lightweight durability.
The major producers included Wendell August Forge (Grove City, Pennsylvania), Arthur Armour, Everlast, Continental, Rodney Kent, Buenilum, Cromwell, and Farberware. Each company developed distinctive styles, from Wendell August's detailed hammered designs to the sleek modern forms of mid-century producers.
Identifying Makers and Styles
Major Manufacturers
- Wendell August Forge (1923-present) - Hand-hammered with detailed repoussework; dogwood, pine, and acorn motifs. Still in production; vintage pieces are most collectible
- Arthur Armour (1930s-1950s) - Hand-wrought with applied decorative elements
- Everlast (1930s-1960s) - Forged aluminum with floral and fruit designs; "Everlast" mark impressed
- Continental Hand-Wrought - Chrysanthemum and bamboo patterns popular
- Rodney Kent - Tulip pattern is the signature design
- Buenilum - Smooth, polished pieces with minimal decoration; mid-century modern aesthetic
- Cromwell - Hand-wrought with cast handles and finials
Marks
Most pieces are marked on the bottom with the manufacturer name, often stamped or impressed. Wendell August pieces carry a distinctive keystone-shaped mark. Unmarked pieces are common and valued based on quality and design.
Auction Prices and Market Values
| Type | Typical Range | Exceptional Pieces |
|---|---|---|
| Common tray (Everlast, Continental) | $10-$30 | $60+ |
| Wendell August tray or plate | $25-$75 | $200+ |
| Casserole holder or chafing dish | $15-$40 | $80+ |
| Ice bucket | $15-$45 | $100+ |
| Pitcher or water set | $20-$60 | $150+ |
| Silent butler | $10-$25 | $50+ |
| Large serving piece or punch bowl | $30-$80 | $200+ |
| Rare or unusual form | $40-$150 | $400+ |
Wendell August Forge consistently commands the highest prices. Complete sets (e.g., a matching tray, pitcher, and tumblers) bring premiums over individual pieces.
Condition Factors That Affect Value
- Dents and dings are common and reduce value modestly (10-20%) unless severe
- Pitting from corrosion reduces value significantly
- Dark oxidation can usually be cleaned but heavy corrosion cannot
- Bent or warped trays from heat or stacking lose value
- Missing handles or finials on covered dishes are problematic
- Scratches from utensils or cleaning are common; deep scratches reduce value
Collecting Tips
Entry Points
Common Everlast and Continental trays are plentiful at $10-$30 at estate sales and thrift stores. This is one of the most affordable decorative arts categories.
Building a Collection
- By maker - Wendell August Forge is the premier collecting focus
- By pattern - Many companies produced signature patterns (Rodney Kent tulips, Continental chrysanthemums)
- By form - Trays, barware, or serving pieces make cohesive displays
- Mid-century modern - Buenilum and similar sleek designs appeal to modernist collectors
Care
- Clean with mild soap and water; dry thoroughly
- Commercial aluminum polish restores shine but removes patina some collectors prefer
- Never put collectible aluminum in the dishwasher
- Store with felt or cloth between stacked pieces to prevent scratching