Longaberger Apple Basket with Wood Lid and Maple Leaf Knob
Longaberger · Art & Decor > Baskets
Era / Decade
Late 1990s to Early 2000s (Exact year is usually hand-signed on the bottom)
Material
Woven hardwood maple splints, solid wood lid, and a cast metal (likely pewter or zinc alloy) maple leaf decorative knob.
Condition
Very Good. The weave appears intact without breakage, and the wood lid shows a nice patina. There is minor surface dust and very slight wear on the handle hinge points.
Demand Level
Moderate. While the collector market for Longaberger peaked in the early 2000s, there is still steady demand for functional kitchen pieces like this apple basket, especially in the fall.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$35.00 - $65.00
Estimated Retail Value
$60.00 - $85.00
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings for similar apple baskets with lids range from $38 to $55 plus shipping. Versions with rare knobs or accessory liners tend to lean toward the $60+ range.
Description
This is a classic hand-woven Longaberger Apple Basket. It features a round, tapered body made of maple splints, a matching wood lid, and a decorative cast metal maple leaf knob. The swinging handle is sturdy and secured with copper hardware. These baskets are iconic pieces of American craftsmanship, often used for kitchen storage or seasonal fall decor.
Key Features
Hand-signed and dated on the bottom; includes a specialized wood lid; features a collectible metal leaf knob attachment; highly recognized brand with a dedicated collector base.
Authenticity Indicators
Authentication relies on the burned-in Longaberger logo and the hand-written initials and year of the weaver on the bottom of the basket. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Minor scuffing on the lid surface; slight darkening of the wood due to age (patina); check for any cracked splints at the base or interior staining from past use.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (broadest reach for collectors), Etsy (vintage home decor focus), or Facebook Marketplace (to avoid high shipping costs on bulky/fragile items).
Selling Tips
Always include a photo of the bottom signature and date. Mention if it includes a plastic protector liner (which increases value). Use keywords like 'Handwoven', 'Handmade', 'Dresden Ohio', and 'Farmhouse Decor' to attract buyers.