Vintage Wooden Milk Bottle Crate / Deposit Box
Badger Farms Creameries (Portsmouth, N.H.) · Collectibles & Antiques > Advertising & Farm Collectibles
Era / Decade
1950s (Stamped date code '6-58' indicates June 1958)
Material
Natural weathered wood panels bound with heavy-gauge galvanized iron/steel metal corner strapping and nail fasteners.
Condition
Good (Authentic vintage condition). Displays natural aging, surface weathering, wood grain texture, rust/patina on metal banding, and minor wood chipping near bottom edges, but structural integrity remains solid.
Demand Level
Moderate to Niche. High demand among regional New Hampshire/New England collectors and rustic farmhouse decor enthusiasts.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $35.00 | Mid: $55.00 | High: $85.00
Estimated Retail Value
$60.00 - $80.00 (Original deposit value was nominal, but comparable modern decor reproductions retail around $50-$70)
Comparable Sales
Similar vintage 1950s regional dairy crates consistently sell for $40-$70 on eBay and Etsy depending on city branding legibility, while rare regional milk crates reach $75-$100 in specialized antique venues.
Description
Authentic vintage wooden creamery deposit box from Badger Farms Creameries in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Stamped with clear black typography on weathered wood panels with rusted metal edge strapping. Features a visible date stamp '6-58' (June 1958). Perfect rustic farmhouse decor item for storage, plant display, or regional New England dairy collection.
Key Features
Clear, bold local advertising lettering ('Badger Farms Creameries Portsmouth, N.H.'), verified 1958 date stamp, sturdy metal-reinforced corners, authentic rustic patina desired in farmhouse interior decor.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. Authentic aging patterns, natural metal oxidization, period-correct stenciling font, and genuine date code stamp (6-58).
Flaws to Note
Surface rust on metal corner brackets, natural aging cracks and edge wear in the wood, minor knot hole near lower left side. These flaws add rustic character and do not compromise structural stability.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (for national/regional collectors), Etsy (for vintage decor shoppers), Facebook Marketplace (local pickup to avoid heavy shipping costs), or an Antique/Consignment Mall booth.
Selling Tips
Highlight 'Portsmouth NH' and '1958' in listing titles. Clean lightly with a soft brush or compressed air, but DO NOT sand, paint, or scrub off the aged patina. Measure dimensions accurately and offer local pickup options due to shipping weight.