Identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic piece of mid-century Americana, this hooded dustpan features a warm copper-plated finish and a distinctive fluted design. The 'key' on the hood originally served as a latch for a matching hand brush, making it a stylish and functional set for the modern home.
Story
Vintage mid-century utilitarian goods like this hooded dustpan reflect post-war America's drive to elevate daily chores with coordinated, stylized home design. The 1960s-1970s saw a cultural emphasis on 'company-ready' homes, transforming basic cleaning implements into displayable accessories.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed · Ballonoff Home Products, Cleveland, Ohio, USA, Mid-Century Modern
Condition & Value
Value is highly dependent on structural integrity; a straight front edge and warm, rust-free patina are essential for decorators. Visible surface oxidation and pitting in the copper plating are present, which is typical for these steel-core items. The white rubber edge appears intact but shows age-related discoloration.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Direct extracted comparables are formally zero, requiring a market-informed approach based on broader secondary research data. The vintage utility market is highly platform-dependent; general auction platforms typically yield baseline results of $15 to $18 for intact Ballonoff hooded models. However, when these items are cross-marketed on visually-driven platforms like Etsy or Poshmark as 'Farmhouse Chic' or 'Mid-Century Decor,' they can command retail ceilings up to $50. Competitor items from makers like J.V. Reed follow a similar pattern ($12-$35). This FMV estimate reflects a standard secondary market or auction hammer price, acknowledging that reaching the upper $50 retail tier requires curated styling and the right buyer demographic.
▲ Presence of the intact 'silent butler' hood
▲ Warm, even patina on the original copper-toned finish
▲ Straight, unwarped front sweeping edge
▲ Current interior design trends favoring 'Farmhouse' or 'Mid-Century' metalwares
▼ Significant dents or structural warping, especially to the front lip
▼ Heavy rust-through or major loss of the copper plating
▼ Low barrier to entry, as these were mass-produced in large quantities
Best Venue
Etsy or Poshmark
Upside Potential
Exceptional condition with zero rust or warping, paired with a matching Ballonoff hand brush, could push retail value toward $50-$60 on curated platforms.