Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an incredibly early, highly collectible No. 5 cast iron skillet featuring a distinctive 'scoop' handle attachment and a raised number 5 on the handle top. The underside shows a faint, early 'ERIE' mark and a raised mold letter 'B' near the bottom rim, characteristic of the earliest production runs from this legendary American foundry.
Story
In the 1880s, Pennsylvania's Griswold foundry revolutionized American kitchens by casting iron so thin and smooth it felt like polished stone. This skillet survived over 130 years of daily family meals, preserving a piece of industrial history.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1865 by Matthew Griswold, the Griswold Manufacturing Company became the gold standard of American cast iron cookware. Their early 'Erie' series, produced before the company name was even added to the pans, is legendary among culinary historians for its lightweight design and glass-smooth cooking surfaces.
Condition & Value
The skillet shows significant carbon buildup and some surface pitting on the exterior bottom, which is common for pieces used on coal stoves. There are no visible cracks or warping, and the cooking surface remains relatively smooth; proper restoration will stabilize the iron and reveal the full maker's mark, likely increasing its appeal. Early 1st and 2nd series 'Erie' skillets in the smaller No. 5 size are highly sought after by collectors.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.