Last Updated on April 17, 2024 by Rachel Granholm
Learn how to use antique coffee grinders as home decor pieces!
It doesn’t matter what time of day it is; the smell of coffee is so comforting and brings about very cozy feelings and is a universal element that brings people together. But did you also know you can absolutely use antique coffee grinders as home decor pieces? Today we’re talking about the history of coffee grinders, how they were used, and how you can use them in your home today.
History of Coffee Grinders
The earliest coffee grinders weren’t even coffee grinders at all!
The ancient Egyptians as well as the ancient Ethiopians used a mortar and pestle to grind coffee beans down into powder. The fifteenth century was when the first spice grinder was invented, which was also used for grinding coffee. The first coffee mill that was sold exclusively for grinding coffee is claimed to be invented in 1665 by an Englishman named Nicolas Book.
Coffee grinders were popular in homes and stores across the world and there were three main types that were used.
- Wheel Grinder
These coffee presses were made out of cast iron with two grinding wheels. They were initially designed to be used as floor models in the 1870’s. Models with a single wheel were patented a few years earlier. Both types of wheel grinders are popular and highly collectible in today’s market. - Box Grinder
These are large wooden boxes that were the most commonly found on the counters of many country stores during the late 1800’s. They grind the coffee beans by turning the crank that is either on the top or the side of the box. There is a drawer on the bottom of the box that catches and stores the coffee grounds, which can hold a pound of coffee! - Wall Mount
These coffee grinders were popular from the late 1800’s through the 1970’s. They came in a variety of styles including ceramic, cast iron, glass, and wood.
Shop Vintage Coffee Grinders
Value of Antique Coffee Grinders
The value of antique coffee grinders depends on some factors including the type of grinder, the condition, and the model.
You can find grinders at antique stores today for under $50 and upwards of hundreds, even thousands, for floor mount models from the 1800’s.
However, the coffee grinder you see below I found at my favorite thrift store for just $8.00! I will say, it’s rare to find vintage coffee grinders while thrifting. But, you just never know what you will find on any given day so it’s always worth checking.
What Else Can I Use a Vintage Coffee Grinder For?
Antique and vintage coffee grinders are oozing with character. They look impressive as a large collection on a wall or a shelf.
Other ways of using old coffee grinders include:
- grinding spices for unique blends
- styling them into a seasonal vignette
- decorate a hutch
- clean it and use the grinder for your coffee beans
- line up a collection across the top of kitchen cabinets
Closing Tidbits
Antique coffee grinders as home decor pieces bring nostalgia and a sense of earthiness to your home. With so many different kinds to choose from, you will be able to find one that speaks to you and that you will love for years to come.
Be encouraged to give new meaning to these old relics of the past, finding joy along the way.
How would you use antique coffee grinders in your home? I would love to know, comment below!
If you are new here, I’m Rachel, the writer and content creator here at The Antiqued Journey. I’m so happy to have you! I encourage you to stop by the ‘about me’ page to get to know me a little more.
Here on the blog, you will find loads of inspiration for decorating with vintage and antique decor, simple DIY crafts and many thrifting adventures. If that interests you, I invite you to sign up for my e-mail. You will receive a free digital download as a thank you!
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