Ever wonder what that number on the handle of your cast-iron skillet means? It’s not, as you might think, the size of the pan. The number actually refers to the diameter of the pan in inches across the bottom of the pan, not across its flared top, which is the industry standard way to measure skillet size.
One may also ask, how can I tell how old my cast iron skillet is?
- Turn over your cookware so the bottom is facing up. Make note of all markings on the bottom of the pan and their location. …
- Examine the construction of the pan. …
- Consult a reputable guidebook. …
- Post pictures of your skillet on the forum for Wagner and Griswold collectors.
Herein, how do I know if my cast iron is valuable?
From then on, the Nances began their search for unusual pieces of cast iron. Valuable ones are identified by distinctive marks on the back. Griswold, Wagner and Erie are the names you’ll want to find, although a skillet without a name can be identified by Nance and other collectors.
How do I know what size my skillet is?
“Skillets are measured across the top of the cookware, not including handles. Lodge’s skillets are measured across the top from outside rim to outside rim,” says Stubblefield.
How do you strip and Reseason a cast iron skillet?
To strip your cast iron pans in the oven, set them upside down on the middle rack, close the door and run the self-cleaning setting. Allow your pans to cool in the oven, then remove and wash with hot soapy water and, if needed, some steel wool to remove any remaining seasoning, rust or flakes.
Is a 10 inch skillet big enough?
Skillets with a diameter of 10″ to 12″ provide you with enough cooking surface for most of your home cooking needs, on the stovetop and in the oven. As a rule of thumb, 10″ skillets are best for households of two and 12″ skillets for families of three or more.
Is Wagner cast iron worth anything?
The value of antique cast iron skillets can start at similar to new prices, but a super rare Wagner or Griswold can fetch up to $1,500 apiece. A mint condition, super rare “spider skillet” made in the 1890s by Griswold is worth up to $8,000. … If your pan was made before 1957, it’s considered vintage cast iron.
What does gate mark mean on cast iron?
Cast iron is made with a sand mold in which liquid iron needs to be poured into it (or injected into the mold.) The liquid iron then hardens and the mold is removed from around it. In the 1800s the iron was poured in via a line on the bottom of the mold which left the line, or gate mark, on the iron once it hardened.
What does number 8 mean on cast iron?
Griswold Manufacturing was a bit more complex in their numbering system, with the numbers seemingly unrelated to the size of a piece. For example, a size #6 Griswold skillet has a pattern number of 699 while a #7 is pattern 701 and a #8 is pattern 704.
What is the heat ring on a cast iron skillet?
The ring on the base of the cast-iron skillets — which is sometimes called a “heat ring” or “smoke ring” — allowed the skillet to slot into the eye and lift it slightly out of the flame.
What size is considered a large skillet?
defines a large skillet as any skillet 12 inches or larger rim to rim. “Lodge’s two most popular skillet sizes are our beloved 10.25-inch ($23, Target) and 12-inch ($30, Target) skillets. I would consider both of these skillets large. Extra-large would be anything north of 12 inches,” Stubblefield says.
What year was Wagner Ware?
Wagner was active between 1891 and 1952, and at one time dominated the cookware market, selling in Europe and the US. The purchasers of the company in 1952 continued the brand, and Wagner products are still manufactured today. The original items are prized by collectors.
When did Wagner stop making cast iron skillets?
Both companies were resold to Textron in 1959. Finally, in 1969, General Housewares Corporation bought both Wagner and Griswold and officially stopped production in 1994.