Everyone Owned One In The 1800s –– Now It's A Valuable American Antique

Mirrors have long been an essential part of home decor. From round, concave pieces to metal arched floor models, you might feel like you've come across every type known to man. But have you ever run into those elegant mirrors that bear an eagle crown? If that doesn't sound familiar, it's probably because they're not around as much anymore. Known as federal mirrors, these artistic pieces can add a sense of patriotism and sophistication to any home. At one point, the fixture adorned the walls of homes throughout the U.S. from the start of the federal era in the 1780s and through the 1800s. 

With European roots, the style is known for its gold giltwood detailing, as the eagle motif brings a sense of power and strength. There are various styles, including rectangular federal mirrors. But the most iconic ones are circular with a convex mirror that is outlined with individual spheres symbolizing the number of states that existed at the time of the then-growing nation. They came during a period when Americans were highly fixated on French architecture and design and wanted to bring some of that old-world charm into their own homes. 

You can bet that federal mirrors are treasured antique items in the thrifting world these days. Today, styling a room with your own federal mirror is a sure way to add some historical flair. But here's the interesting catch: Owning one may mean spending anywhere between $175 to $6,600 or more. It all depends on just how much money you want to drop, which means you should be aware of what to look for before purchasing your own. Mainly, you want to pinpoint which time period your mirror comes from, a good tip for thrifting home decor in general. An authentic 19th century piece will have a higher price than, say, a reproduction from the next century. 

The condition and detailing of the piece also matter a lot when you're buying one. If there's any damage to the frame or if the eagle motif shows signs of deteriorating, chances are the price will be lower. But then it may not be a worthwhile purchase for you. For fair pricing, a mirror like this can easily be found through antique sellers. High-value pieces can be found through trusted auctioneers such as Sotheby's or Christie's, especially if you want an authentic mirror created during the federal era. Platforms such as LiveAuctioneers.com or Olde Hope Antiques, which is known for folk and decorative pieces, are more accessible and often sell items for less than retail value. And while you're browsing, be on the lookout for vintage and antique items that will dominate thrifting trends this year.