How to Tell the Age of Revere Ware

Revere Ware is an iconic American brand of cookware that has been popular for over 200 years. Known for its recognizable copper bottoms and stainless steel lining, Revere Ware‘s durability and heat conductivity has made it a staple in many kitchens.

When trying to date your vintage Revere Ware cookware, there are a few key indicators you can look for. While some detective work may be required, the origins and age of most Revere Ware pieces can be deciphered through careful examination of logos, markings, design elements and other clues.

Examine the Bottom for Markings

The most foolproof way to identify the age of your Revere Ware pan or pot is to look at any markings stamped on the bottom. This marking, known as the “style number”, can pinpoint the year or even decade your cookware was manufactured.

Here is an overview of what the style number can indicate:

• Numbers under 100 – This style number indicates very early Revere Ware made before the 1940s. These pieces are rare and collectible.
• 100-300 range – Cookware with a style number in the 100s, 200s or low 300s was made in the 1940s and 1950s. Mid-century vintage Revere Ware is highly coveted by collectors.
• 300-600 range – Numbers in the mid 300s up to the low 600s pinpoint cookware made in the 1960s and 1970s. This era was the heyday of Revere Ware‘s popularity.
• Over 600 – Any style number over 600 indicates a manufacturing date of 1980 or later. Revere Ware shifted some production abroad in this era.

In addition to the stamped style number, inspect the bottom for any other engraved or imprinted words or logos that can provide clues. Earlier pieces may have “Revere Copper & Brass” or “Revere Copper and Brass Incorporated” imprinted on the bottom.

Examine the Handle Style

The shape and style of the handle can also indicate the era your Revere Ware was produced.

• Pre-1950s – Handles were more simplistic, often straight without curve and minimal rivets. Some handles had an Art Deco style design.
• 1950s-1960s – Mid-century style handles were still fairly minimal but may have some slight curve for comfort.
• 1970s and beyond – Handles evolved to have more ergonomic shapes and curves along withrivets for enhanced grip and support.
• Recent years – Contemporary Revere Ware has handles with modern aesthetics, pronounced curve and large rivets.

Look for Specific Product Lines

Certain product lines can identify pieces made in specific eras:

• WearEver (1940s-50s) – Revere Ware produced a line called WearEver in the mid 20th century. Look for this branding to date pieces.
• Flavorite (1960s-70s) – Flavorite was a popular product line in the 60s and 70s. Pieces are marked with Flavorite branding.
• Revere Ware Magnalite (2018-present) – The original Revere Ware brand was revived in 2018 under the name Revere Ware Magnalite. New pieces bear this name.

Consider the Pan Shape and Design

Like the handles, the overall pan shape and style provides clues to when it was manufactured.

• Pre-1950s – Earlier pans were often thinner and lighter weight. Some had Art Deco design elements.
• 1960s-1970s – Mid-century cookware was sturdier and had simple, clean lines with minimal ornamentation.
• Recent decades – Newer Revere Ware has thicker copper cores and bottoms along with more ergonomic pan shapes.
• Lids – Vintage lids were often glass or metal. Modern lids tend to be stainless steel or tempered glass. Lid fit and design can indicate era.

Research Any Labels or Stickers

Some Revere Ware pieces may have remnants of paper labels or stickers on the bottom or handle. Research any legible words or logos. Common label contents:

• Company names (Revere Copper & Brass, Revere Copper and Brass Inc., RCBI)
• Patent numbers / “Pat. Pend.” marking
• “Made in USA” designation
• Quality control assembly line stamps

Examine Small Details

Subtle details in finish, rivets, handles and other spots can provide tiny clues. Some details to look for:

• Pre-1970s pieces will not have any metric volume markings (liters, milliliters)
• Vintage pieces have copper, brass or enamel-coated wire handle rivets. Newer rivets are stainless steel.
• Older items may show sign of soldering rather than more modern welding
• Quality of handle joinery, preciseness of edges/corners/rivets

With careful inspection and consideration of these clues, you can make a good determination on the era in which your Revere Ware was produced. Pieces from the 1940s-1970s are most coveted by collectors and enthusiasts. Even with some wear and tear, vintage Revere Ware is valued for its enduring performance and iconic retro style.

History of Revere Ware

To better analyze and date your Revere Ware, it helps to understand the history and evolution of this classic American cookware brand.

Origins

Revere Ware‘s roots trace back to 1801 when Paul Revere, the famous American patriot, founded the Revere Copper Company in Canton, Massachusetts. The company produced copper and brass products such as sheathing for naval vessels.

In the 1890s, the Revere Copper Company invented an innovative clad metal cooking material dubbed “Revere Metal” made of copper bonded with stainless steel. This launched the Revere Ware line of legendary cookware.

Early 1900s Through 1930s

Revere Ware grew in popularity through the early 20th century. The line expanded to include teakettles, stock pots, percolators and various other items. Manufacturing was done at the original Revere, Massachusetts foundry.

Some early pieces were stamped with “Revere Copper Co.” or simply “Revere”. Cookware from this era is rare and prized by collectors.

1940s Through 1950s

In the mid 20th century, Revere Ware released specific product lines like WearEver and Flavorite that became popular in households across America. The style number stamping system was implemented during this time.

Manufacturing expanded outside of Massachusetts to facilities in New York and Maryland to meet demand. More streamlined Art Deco and mid-century inspired handles emerged.

1960s and 1970s Peak

The 1960s and 70s were the peak of Revere Ware‘s popularity and distribution. The product line vastly expanded with added colors and cooking-specific pieces like griddles and roasting pans.

Styling shifted to commemorate Revere Ware‘s history with colonial copper teakettles and patriotic motifs. Later years saw a move towards bright, mod designs.

Decline and Outsourcing Beginning 1980s

In the 1980s, Revere Ware struggled to compete as Teflon non-stick pans gained favor along with cheaper aluminum and ceramic cookware flooding the market. To cut costs, manufacturing began shifting to Asia.

Though style numbers continued to be stamped, quality and performance were inconsistent. The original Massachusetts foundry closed in 1984 after over 180 years in operation.

Closure in Early 2000s

Facing financial issues and obsolete facilities, Revere Copper Products, Inc. closed its two remaining factories in New York and Maryland in the early 2000s. After over 200 years, the last Revere Ware cookware rolled off American production lines.

Today, vintage Revere Ware is sought after by collectors and cooking enthusiasts who appreciate its enduring quality and retro-chic style. Properly maintained, many original pieces still perform as well as modern cookware. When sourcing vintage Revere Ware, the tips in this guide will help you successfully identify and date your finds.

Additional Revere Ware Facts

Beyond using the design and marking clues to identify era and origins, there are some other interesting facts about Revere Ware that may aid evaluation:

• Foundry – Until the 1980s, most Revere Ware was manufactured at the original Revere Copper Company foundry in Revere, Massachusetts. The location operated for over 180 years before closing in 1984.
• Materials – Authentic Revere Ware consists of a copper exterior bonded to a stainless steel lining. Many pots feature a thick copper base for superior heat distribution.
• Made in USA – Vintage pieces from the 20th century will be stamped “Made in USA”. Cookware made after the 1980s shift to offshore production will lack this designation.
• Model Numbers – In addition to the style number, some pieces also have an alphanumeric model number. This provides more specific detail on the item style and size.
• Lid Markings – Lids may have markings that match the pot or pan base. Look for consistent model numbers, logos and other stamps.
• Etching – Some Revere Ware has lightly etched branding like logos and decorative designs. This etching can wear over time.
• Quality – Well-maintained vintage Revere Ware can perform as well or better than modern cookware. Heavy gauge metals and hand-finished parts result in a durable, heirloom quality product.

How to Care for Revere Ware

With the right care and maintenance, Revere Ware can last for many decades. Here are some tips for keeping your vintage or modern Revere Ware performing like new:

• Gentle cleaning – Use mild soaps and soft sponges to avoid scratches. Avoid abrasives. Hand wash if possible.
• Avoid metal utensils – Using wood, silicone or plastic utensils will prevent scratching the cooking surface.
• Dry thoroughly – Ensure pots and pans are fully dried to prevent copper corrosion.
• Condition regularly – Apply a small amount of cooking oil occasionally to recondition the cooking surface.
• Prevent warping – Don‘t subject empty Revere Ware to high heat. Allow pans to cool before washing.
• Remove tarnish – Use special copper cleaners to gently polish away any tarnish on copper exteriors as needed.

With proper use and care, Revere Ware can function like new for many generations, especially vintage pieces made to Revere‘s exacting early standards.

Is Revere Ware Still Made Today?

Revere Ware once disappeared from the marketplace after production shifted offshore in the 1980s and the last American factories closed in the early 2000s.

However, due to public demand and nostalgia for this classic cookware, the Revere Ware brand has been revived in recent years:

• In 2018, a company called Magnalite acquired the Revere Ware manufacturing foundry in Rome, NY and re-launched American-made Revere Ware under the branding Revere Ware Magnalite.
• This new Revere Ware cookware line includes modern updates but is still made using original techniques in the Rome, NY factory.
• Magnalite also produces luxury Heritage Copper cookware to early Revere Ware copper-and-stainless specifications.
• Contemporary Revere Ware Magnalite incorporates thicker copper cores and more ergonomic handles while retaining the iconic styling of vintage pieces.

So while the early-mid 20th century remains the glory days of Revere Ware, Americans looking for durable, attractive stainless lined copper cookware have new Revere Ware options thanks to this historic brand‘s revival.

Identifying Rare Early Pieces

As one of America‘s earliest cookware manufacturers operating since 1801, some extremely early examples of Revere Ware are exceptionally unique and valuable to collectors:

1800s to Early 1900s

• Simple handled pots and kettles entirely of hammered copper, bearing “Revere Copper Co.” stamps. Extremely rare.
• Early Revere Metal cookware with copper exteriors and raw steel or nickel lining rather than more refined stainless steel.
• Odd sizes/shapes no longer in standard production. Rare molds and custom pieces.

Look for irregularities in hammered finish, hand-riveted handles and other signs of primitive, early production methods.

1910s Through 1920s

• Earliest cookware with copper bonded stainless steel Revere Metal construction.
• Art Deco styling on handles and lids. Sometimes elaborate ornamental designs.
• Glass lids, some with metal overlay. Often not a perfect fit.

Markings like “Revere Copper Co.” help authenticate early origins. Handle shape and rivet marks signify hand assembly. These very early antiques are extremely rare and valuable.

Researching Older Pieces

For early to mid-century pieces with unclear origins, conducting additional research can help uncover the full history and value. Some approaches to learn more:

• Look up any patent numbers stamped on the bottom – this can identify design origins and date.
• Search industry publications from the 1800s – early 1900s. Revere and competitors advertised cookware lines.
• Consult collecting guides that showcase rare pieces from all eras.
• Find museum collections featuring early Revere Ware – such as the Smithsonian.
• Connect with antique appraisers knowledgeable in vintage cookware.
• Have piece professionally examined and appraised by an expert.

With a combination of hands-on inspection and deeper research, the full background of your vintage Revere Ware can come to light. This provides insight into its place in the iconic brand‘s long history.

Is Revere Ware Still Good Quality?

During its heyday from the 1940s through the 1970s, the quality and performance of Revere Ware was unparalleled. It earned a reputation for being durable, versatile cookware that distributed heat evenly and efficiently.

When production moved offshore in the 1980s, consistency became more variable:

• Some cooks noted quality and durability declines in newer Asian-manufactured Revere Ware purchased in the 80s and 90s.
• Performance was not up to par with vintage American-crafted Revere Ware. Corners were cut impacting longevity.
• Spotty quality control meant some pieces still met earlier standards, while others felt flimsier.

However, today‘s revival of Revere Ware is bringing back original quality benchmarks:

• New Revere Ware Magnalite cookware is once again manufactured in the USA at the original New York foundry.
• Build quality, materials, technique and performance rival vintage pieces thanks to American craftsmanship.
• Thicker 3mm copper cores rapidly and evenly conduct heat. Durable stainless steel layers resist warping.

So while Revere Ware declined along with most American cookware brands in the late 20th century, the comeback of this heritage brand features a return to form in terms of durability, longevity and cooking power.

Common Questions About Dating Revere Ware

When trying to pinpoint the manufacturing era of vintage Revere Ware cookware, some common questions can arise. Here are answers to a few frequently asked questions:

What does Made in Korea mean for Revere Ware pieces?

Cookware stamped “Made in Korea” dates from the period when Revere Ware shifted production to Asia in the 1980s-1990s. Quality from this era is more variable.

How can I find out how old my pan is from the model number?

Early model numbers like those under 300 indicate pre-1960s era. Mid-century cookware has model numbers in the 300s and 400s. By the late 1900s, model numbers reached the 500s and up.

Who bought Revere Ware after the company closed?

The manufacturing facilities were purchased by various entities including Graniteware and Meyer Corporation to continue making cookware. The Magnalite company eventually acquired the original Rome, NY foundry in 2018 to relaunch Revere Ware.

What‘s the difference between Flavorite and WearEver lines?

Flavorite was marketed from the 1950s – 1970s with a focus on flavorful cooking. WearEver was sold starting in the 1940s and was billed as extra durable cookware. Both were Revere Ware‘s branded lines for retail.

How do I date my pan with no apparent markings?

For unmarked pans, look for clues like handle design, lid style, pouring spouts and overall construction. Comparison to known dated examples can provide an estimate.

Accurately identifying the manufacturing era of vintage Revere Ware takes some detective work – but the clues are there with careful examination. From model numbers to design details, the origins of most pieces can be deciphered by the knowledgeable collector.