My Onlinepedia

Since coffee tables did not grow into popularity until the 20th century, defining an antique coffee table can be somewhat complicated. Most early coffee tables were merely wood kitchen tables with their legs shortened to the height of sofas in order to fit their use.

Today, many antique coffee tables are just that, antique dining room tables with shorter legs and those can still be considered antiques since the table, other than the length of the legs, is still in its original form. These tables come in different sizes, shapes and styles as varied as the original tables from which they have been converted.

One of the problems with finding an antique coffee table is to first be sure it qualifies as an antique. While all antique furniture is old, not all old furniture can be considered antique. It may be just some boards thrown together and legs attached. Look for the quality of the craftsmanship.

Hand-hewn joints should be solid without gaps and the boards on the top should be tightly fitted, again with no gaps. Legs on most antique coffee tables are held on with dowels and glue, not nails or metal brackets. If your table has a drawer, the guides will also be made of wood if it is a true antique coffee table.

Consider Refinishing If Surface Is Worn

While many antique experts will tell you that refinishing will reduce the value of a piece, there are times, refinishing will be necessary. If the surface is dull and cracked removing the old finish can be done with jeopardizing the value of the antique coffee table.

Using non-chemical varnish remover, available through many do-it-yourself outlets, along with zero course steel wheel, the varnish can be removed and the bare wood finely smoothed in preparation of the application of a new finish. Replacing pieces of an antique coffee table should be left to experts with the knowledge and expertise to make any new pieces needed and to match the original craftsmanship.

Replacing parts however, can reduce the value, but the has already been greatly reduced due to the damaged pieces you want to replace. An antique coffee table, which has been painted, offers a different set of opportunities, but a high quality paint remover can be used to get it back to its original color. Once the paint is removed, inspect the surface finish and it can be replaced, as well, if needed.