Vintage Industrial Steel Single-Drawer Index Filing Cabinet
Likely Cole Steel or Art Metal Construction Co. · Furniture > Office Furniture
Era / Decade
1950s-1960s based on the brushed aluminum pyramid-base handle and integrated label holder
Material
Heavy-gauge cold-rolled steel with aluminum hardware and original enamel paint finish
Condition
Fair to Good; visible surface scratches, paint chips, and white paint splatter; interior shows some oxidation
Demand Level
Moderate; steady demand for functional vintage office storage among collectors and interior decorators
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $25 | Mid: $45 | High: $75 (Restored or in a high-rent vintage boutique)
Estimated Retail Value
$65.00 - $85.00 (comparable modern industrial-style recreations)
Comparable Sales
Recent sales on eBay and Etsy for single-drawer metal files range from $35 to $60 depending on the patina and 'cool factor' of the brand mark.
Description
Mid-century industrial single-drawer desktop filing cabinet in charcoal gray. Features a classic brushed aluminum pull handle with pyramid mounts and a built-in card index frame. Solid steel construction suitable for heavy-duty storage or industrial chic decor.
Key Features
Heavy-duty vintage aesthetic, highly desirable for 'industrial chic' or 'dark academia' room styling; compact desktop size; original vintage hardware
Authenticity Indicators
Weight (real vintage steel is significantly heavier than modern equivalents), spot-welded seams, and period-accurate aluminum hardware. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Abrasions on the top surface, white paint speckles on the face, minor rust inside the drawer track, and missing the original key if it was a locking model
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist (to avoid heavy shipping), Etsy (if willing to ship to vintage lovers), or a local antique booth
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Industrial Chic', 'Steampunk', and 'Mid Century Modern'. Thoroughly clean off the white paint splatters with a plastic scraper to instantly increase value. Photograph in a styled office setting.