Trunk - Unknown Value

I bought this trunk from someone for $90. She wanted to get rid of it because of her son but she had it for a little while; before her, she said some older lady had it and it had been in their family for a bit.

I need help determining the value it could be. I've done research on my own because I thought it could be an R.H. John Trunk but the logo doesn't match exactly so maybe a knockoff?

I want to do something crafty with it but I want to determine the value before I do that. I don't have many antique places around where I live to get it appraised in person, so I'm hoping I can get more info online.

 

Pretty typical turn of the century steamer trunk. Someone has stripped off the fabric covering and refinished the wood. This is a pretty common and, generally, enhances value. These sell in the $75-$125 range at retail here in my Midwest location. Used to bring more. Might bring more in other locations (large cities, coastal areas, etc.).

I don't see anything exceptional about this trunk so no real reason to not modify it further. That said, why not find one that hasn't already been refinished to work your magic on? They can usually be picked up pretty cheaply. I see them under $25.00 here regularly.

 

Thank you so much! I actually loved the way this one looked on the outside and only wanted to change the way the inside looked for craft fair events for my artwork. It took me forever to find a trunk that was big enough and didn't already have the outside painted or refurbished in a more modern look. I feel a lot better about wanting to touch this one up now too!

 

That's a lovely trunk!

Whatever you do to th' interior, be sure to leave some room around the label...an' perhaps cover it with a Lucite/Perspex window for better preservation?

Are both the lift straps in useful condition?

 

I planned on leaving the label uncovered because I thought it was cute. And yes, both straps are in great condition; neither have cracks in the leather or anything.