How Can I Tell How Old My Cast Iron Skillet Is?
There are a few ways to determine the age of your cast iron skillet. Some skillets have markings or engravings on the bottom that may indicate the manufacturer or a date of production. You can also examine the texture of the cooking surface – older skillets tend to have a smoother finish due to the way they were made. Another clue is the presence of a heat ring on the bottom – these were phased out in the early 1900s. Additionally, if your skillet has a gate mark on the bottom, it is likely from the mid-1800s to early 1900s. With these factors in mind, it’s possible to make an educated guess about the approximate age of your cast iron skillet.