Purchase VINTAGE PIE SAFE

Look for these elements when purchasing a vintage pie safe.

• HAND OR FACTORY PUNCHED. One element that can impact the value of a pie safe is whether the tin holes were punched by machine or by hand.

• PATTERNS. When the tin is punched into an image like

an eagle or star, this can also impact its value.

• CONDITION. Even if the tin is rusted or has been

painted, there is an excellent chance it can still be restored with a bit of work. Carefully clean the tin with extra fine steel wool and water. Use pipe cleaners for the holes.

• CHIPPING PAINT. Many pie safes were painted with milk paint, which seeps into the wood. Stripping milk paint is a much more complicated process than traditional paint, so it may be better to leave it.