The Unique Type Of Vintage Ashtray You Can Thrift That Makes The Perfect Beachy Decor

When it comes to vintage shopping and thrifting, there's really no telling which treasured antique items will dominate thrifting trends. Some vintage decor pieces need to be repurposed or upcycled, while others — such as vintage ashtrays — can simply be used as-is. Even if you don't smoke, brass ashtrays make the best accent pieces for any surface. Keep an eye out for the trending brass crab ashtrays especially, which are popping up all over the internet. These brass beauties can elevate a beachy aesthetic without leaning too far into the cliche decor that can make this theme seem dated. The unique design has a hidden basin in the crab's body which could hide some very small trinkets, but mainly this is just a fun piece of decor that is also a conversation starter.

While it's a little tricky to pin down the exact year these started being produced and sold, it seems that during the early 1900s, more and more creative shapes were used for ashtrays, so it's likely this is when the crab version came into style. The unique shape and discreet tray make for the ideal accent on a variety of surfaces including tables, bookshelves, and even countertops.

Styling the items you find at thrift stores is half the fun. Ashtrays may not be worth as much as certain valuable vintage glassware pieces, but the brass material brings a luxurious vibe that can't be beat. If your home is beach or coastal themed, this could easily become a key statement piece in any room, and because it's such a warm, neutral material, it will match a variety of palettes. The crab shape especially contributes to this aesthetic, as sea creatures are easily identified and matched with anything to do with the beach. Add this to a table or shelf along with some wood elements for a more subdued coastal theme, or pair it with shell-themed items to play up the oceanic vibe. Use the crab ashtray as a purely decorative piece or as a catch-all for small items like buttons or coins. You could even leave the shell open to display your favorite jewelry.

Finding these in a thrift store could be a great catch, but you can also check online through sites like Etsy or eBay, where you can find some nice options around $100. Antique stores may also have these style of ashtray, though the price through any of these might be a little higher. Depop may have a few options, so put Brass Crab Ashtray in your search bar to see what results pop up!