Lanterns That Light Up Big Value
Before LED flashlights and battery-powered beams, lanterns were essential tools for lighting the night. Today, many vintage lanterns are worth hundreds or even thousands—especially if they’re rare, in good condition, or tied to specific eras.
Coleman Model 288 (1980s)
Estimated value: $75–$125
A later model but still collectible, the 288 was known for its dual-fuel versatility. Mint condition models in original boxes appeal to modern-era collectors.
The Coleman Lantern 288: Tips for buying used lanterns, Ravenwood Acres
Dietz Blizzard No. 2 (1950s)
Estimated value: $100–$150
One of Dietz’s most iconic kerosene lanterns. Its wide glass globe and heavy-duty frame make it a classic among storm lantern collectors.
Dietz No. 2 blizzard vintage lantern restoration, Chefbirdland
Coleman 220F Lantern (1960s)
Estimated value: $125–$175
A workhorse of American camping, the 220F was mass-produced but remains popular among enthusiasts—especially with its green vent and metal fuel cap.
Vintage 1972 Coleman 220F Lantern - First Use in almost 30 years!, DaSamNudge
Feuerhand Baby Special 276 (Germany)
Estimated value: $150–$200
German-made and built to last, the 276 is still in production today—but vintage models from the mid-century, especially in rare colors, draw collector attention.
Feuerhand Kerosene Lamp: Storm lantern: 276 baby special, PeakSurvival
Coleman Model 242B (1940s)
Estimated value: $175–$225
This compact lantern is nicknamed 'the little red cap' by fans. Its size, age, and polished nickel base make it a beauty on any collector’s shelf.
Coleman 242-B Gasoline Lamp, nzlatimer
Embassy Brass Hurricane Lantern (India, 1930s)
Estimated value: $200–$275
Rare and decorative, these brass lanterns were built for utility and style. Restored pieces with intact globes are especially valuable.
Why do hurricane lanterns look like that?, Technology Connections
Coleman 200A Lantern (Christmas 1955 Edition)
Estimated value: $250–$350
This iconic red lantern with a green box is known as the 'Christmas Lantern' among collectors. Original packaging makes it even more valuable.
Coleman 200A Lantern, Ravenwood Acres
C.T. Ham No. 3 Tubular Lantern (Early 1900s)
Estimated value: $300–$400
Ham lanterns were made in Rochester, NY and are some of the most sought-after railroad and barn lanterns. Embossed globes raise the price.
New Brass Lanterns: C.T. Ham Gem & Dietz SG & L, Ken's Lanterns And Things
Coleman Model 243A (1930s)
Estimated value: $350–$450
Nicknamed the 'air-o-lantern,' this model had a short production run and features a unique air intake design. Clean, working versions are tough to find.
Coleman 243A Lantern - Part 1 of 3, Shaner
Dietz Monarch Lantern (1920s)
Estimated value: $400–$500
With its squat frame and thick globe, the Monarch was built for rough conditions. Collectors prize ones with original paint and fuel caps.
Dietz Monarch Hot Blast Lantern, Woody K.
Ash Flash Lantern (Japan, 1960s)
Estimated value: $500–$600
Sold mainly in the U.S., this Japanese-made lantern came in red and blue. Its odd styling and short production run drive up value.
Ash Flash: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know, King ColeMan
Coleman 327 Quick-Lite (1920s)
Estimated value: $600–$800
A pre-mantle pressure lantern that used mica instead of glass globes. These were early innovations that serious collectors pay dearly for.
All About Coleman Quicklite Lanterns (And How to Restore One), King ColeMan
Bialaddin 300X (UK, 1950s)
Estimated value: $700–$900
A British lantern with a beautiful enameled hood and brass fittings. Known for quality craftsmanship and rare colors like maroon and teal.
RESTORING A BIALADDIN 300 x vintage lamp, PIPSLOTS
Coleman 275 'Turd' Lantern (1970s)
Estimated value: $900–$1,200
Named for its brown color and odd shape, this lantern was unpopular—making it rare today. Complete kits with box are worth even more.
Vintage 1979 Coleman 275 Lantern, DaSamNudge
Rayo Nickel-Plated Table Lantern (1910s)
Estimated value: $1,200–$1,500
Used in early homes before electric light, Rayo lanterns were elegant and bright. Table models with decorative fonts are highly collectible.
Rayo Lamp, Kerosene Lamps of The North
Primus 981 Lantern (Sweden, 1930s)
Estimated value: $1,500–$1,800
Swedish lanterns are known for precision and reliability. The 981 is a favorite among European collectors, especially with original parts.
Coleman Model 228B (1930s)
Estimated value: $1,800–$2,000
Large and bright, this model was designed for group camping. Early versions with green vent and yellow decal are most valuable.
Angle Lamp Co. Hanging Lantern (1910s)
Estimated value: $2,000–$2,500
Made to hang in shops or barns, this lantern had a horizontal tank and rare burner system. Original glass and hardware make it shine.
The Angle Lamp Co. 1892-1929, the log cabin life style by Jerry Tyson
Veritas Aladdin Lantern (UK, 1940s)
Estimated value: $2,500–$3,000
A post-war kerosene pressure lantern with a stunning enamel finish and brass tank. It’s a showpiece and a conversation starter.
The Fascinating History and Mechanics of Aladdin Lamps | What You Need to Know, The Wick Shop
Coleman Model 327C Empire (1920s)
Estimated value: $3,000–$4,000
This table-top lantern was intended for use indoors and often featured frosted or cut-glass globes. Ultra-rare today.
100 year old 1920s Coleman Quicklite L327 lantern revival, YAMAHSAKI R/C
Willis & Bates Vapalux M1 (UK Military, 1940s)
Estimated value: $4,000–$5,000
Used in WWII by the British military, these lanterns were built to survive combat. Complete kits with military markings are gold to collectors.
Willis & Bates Vapalux M1 Military paraffin lamp -first lighting., RAR Knives and Leatherwork
Coleman Arc Lantern (1914)
Estimated value: $5,000–$6,500
One of the first pressure lanterns Coleman made. It was only produced for a year, making surviving examples incredibly valuable.
Adlake Kero Railroad Lantern (1900s)
Estimated value: $6,500–$7,500
Used on American railroads, these hand lanterns featured changeable colored lenses and embossed globes. Railroad markings add big value.
Adlake 250 Kero Railroad Lanterns, Rotwang Manteuffel
Heinze-Smith Cold Blast Lantern (1880s)
Estimated value: $8,000–$10,000
One of the earliest cold blast lanterns made. Thick glass and cast iron components make it rare and nearly indestructible.
W.T. Kirkman #2 Champion (Restored Antique)
Estimated value: $12,000+
Though Kirkman makes modern lanterns today, early antique originals with restored nickel, hand-blown glass, and provenance can top five figures.
W.T. Kirkman's Champion No 2 review., gijefftek
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