French Country · Encyclopedia · Tableware, Kitchen and Decorative Objects
Griswold Cast Iron
American cast-iron skillets and pans from Griswold (1865-1957).
Cast Iron · Indicative US retail $30–$1,500
At a glance
- Family: Cast Iron
- Periods most often found: Most collected pieces date from 1900 to 1957.
- Typical price: about $120; range $30 to $1,500 and more for exceptional pieces
- What drives value: Logo, size, rarity
What it is
Griswold Manufacturing of Erie, Pennsylvania, made some of the finest cast-iron cookware in America from 1865 to 1957: skillets, Dutch ovens, griddles, waffle irons, muffin and cornbread pans. Their thin walls, smooth machined cooking surfaces and even heat make them favorites of cooks as well as collectors.
How to identify and date it
The logo dates the piece: the "large block logo" (a cross in a double circle with "Griswold Erie PA") is typical of 1920-1940, smaller logos later. Pattern numbers and size numbers are cast on the base. Check for cracks (tap and listen: a cracked pan sounds dull), warping (it should sit flat), pitting and heavy rust. Collectible sizes and rare pieces command high prices.
Periods and styles
Most collected pieces date from 1900 to 1957.
How much is it worth?
On the US retail market, most griswold cast iron examples ask around $120. Simple or worn pieces start near $30, while documented, signed or exceptional examples can pass $1,500. The main value drivers are: logo, size, rarity. These are indicative ranges, not an appraisal; see our price guide for French antiques for the method.
Before you buy
- Check logo and numbers
- Test flatness
- Look for cracks
Living with it
Use a Griswold skillet every day; hang a few on a kitchen wall.
How we write these guides: identification notes are general guidance written by French Country; a style name, a region or a resemblance does not by itself date or attribute a piece. Price ranges are indicative US retail asking prices for antique and vintage examples in sound condition (dealers, specialist marketplaces and auctions), estimated and rounded as of November 2026; check recent sold results before relying on a figure. They are not appraisals or offers to buy or sell: condition, provenance and documentation can move a value far outside the range. For insurance, estates or sales, ask an independent, qualified appraiser for a written valuation.