11,108  PAGES BROWSED TODAY PAGES TODAY • 29 ANTIQUES UPLOADED TODAYNEW ARRIVALS
GIFTS
29 ITEMS ADDED TODAY
Sort Order
Items Per Page
Browse Categories
Sort order
Relevant Links
Items per page
ID #SA1241142
FOR SALE
£975
Email Phone Buy
Save
Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)
For sale by Yolanda Gray Antiques
for sale €1,141     $1,238
£975
Yolanda Gray Antiques

Yolanda Gray Antiques

Sellingantiques Verified Since Aug 2010
Browse dealers 116 items
  • Trade Associations
    Yolanda Gray Antiques is a registered member of LAPADA  CINOA
Id #SA1241142
PDF SHARE
SAVE

Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

17th century
Description

This is a primitive English 17th century oak coffer, also known as a six-plank sword chest. It dates from the Commonwealth and Charles II period, circa 1650–1680. In addition, it is in excellent condition, with sought after small proportions and stunning original colour.

Summary:

• Item: Antique Oak Sword Chest / Coffer

• Provenance: England, UK

• Period: Commonwealth / Charles II (mid-to-late 17th century)

• Circa: 1650 - 1680

• Wood: Solid oak

• Rare sought after size

• Primitive six-plank boarded design

• Working lock (with working key)

• 18th century iron strap hinges

• Original lid, front, sides, back & bottom

• Original length “v shaped” cut-out bracket feet (stiles)

• Original superb colour & patination

• Free delivery to mainland England, Wales & Southern Scotland*

• 14-day free UK returns

Description of the 17th Century Oak Sword Chest:

This is a primitive English antique oak sword chest. A country maker built it from just six planks during the mid-to-late 17th century. Today, it remains in excellent condition, with small proportions and stunning original colour.

Six Plank Construction:

The maker used a primitive six plank method. Simple butt joints meet at the corners, and handmade iron nails hold them together. The lid has a nice overhang. Also, simple thumb moulding decorates the front and sides of the lid. The lid hangs on 18th century iron strap hinges, so these are a later period addition. In addition, a working steel lock and key keep the contents secure.

Original V-Shaped Bracket Feet:

The chest stands on its original length stiles (feet). Here, the end boards run down to form the feet, and saw cuts shape them into v-shaped brackets. The maker also carried the cut higher on the outside face. It is nice to see the feet at their original height. Usually, owners cut them down, the feet suffered damage, or damp and cold floors wore them away. After all, the feet were the main point of contact with damp floors.

Original Colour and Patination:

The back of the coffer keeps its original rough-hewn board, and the original floor is also present. Moreover, the original wax polish survives. As a result, the oak has a lovely mellow colour and patination. The interior is clean and dry. So, the coffer is both practical and usable today.

Condition Report:

The coffer is in excellent condition, considering its age. It has 18th century iron strap hinges and a working steel lock (with key). Also, the antique chest retains its original top, front, sides, back, floor and legs. Moreover, it stands on the original length stiles (feet), which is rare to see. There are nominal old marks to the top, edges, sides and leading edges. However, these are nothing significant for a piece of this age. Indeed, such old use marks are inevitable and perfectly acceptable! The interior is clean, dry and practical. Finally, the coffer is solid in joint. It does not wobble on the floor, so it is ready to use.

Price & Delivery:

The price for this item is £975. This includes free delivery to mainland England, Wales and southern Scotland*, plus 14-day free UK returns.

14-Day Free UK Returns & Refunds:

A 14-day free “no quibble” returns policy (from the date you receive the item) is available if you are not happy with this item. We will collect the item free of charge from you (we do not charge a return fee / collection fee).

International Buyers:

If you live outside the UK and you would like to purchase this item, please contact us before purchasing it, so that we can obtain an accurate shipping quote and delivery lead-time.

About the Seller:

This item is being sold by Yola Gray Antiques who is an accredited member of LAPADA and CINOA. Yola Gray has dealt in fine art and antique furniture for over 50 years.

Product Code: 121442

Physical Dimensions
Height
58cm (22.83")
Width
111cm (43.70")
Depth
38cm (14.96")
Declaration

Yolanda Gray Antiques has dated this 17th Century Oak Coffer to the 17th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1241142
Dealers Internal Reference
121442
Dealers Notes

Please contact us on 01829 458 070 or 07960 738 212 to arrange a viewing. Alternatively, please email: info@yolagray.com

Description
This is a primitive English 17th century oak coffer, also known as a six-plank sword chest. It dates from the Commonwealth and Charles II period, circa 1650–1680.
“
In addition, it is in excellent condition, with sought after small proportions and stunning original colour.
Yolanda Gray Antiques
fig 1. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 1. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

Summary:

• Item: Antique Oak Sword Chest / Coffer

• Provenance: England, UK

• Period: Commonwealth / Charles II (mid-to-late 17th century)

• Circa: 1650 - 1680

• Wood: Solid oak

• Rare sought after size

• Primitive six-plank boarded design

fig 2. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 2. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

• Working lock (with working key)

• 18th century iron strap hinges

• Original lid, front, sides, back & bottom

• Original length “v shaped” cut-out bracket feet (stiles)

• Original superb colour & patination

fig 3. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 3. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

• Free delivery to mainland England, Wales & Southern Scotland*

• 14-day free UK returns

Description of the 17th Century Oak Sword Chest:

This is a primitive English antique oak sword chest. A country maker built it from just six planks during the mid-to-late 17th century. Today, it remains in excellent condition, with small proportions and stunning original colour.

fig 4. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 4. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

Six Plank Construction:

The maker used a primitive six plank method. Simple butt joints meet at the corners, and handmade iron nails hold them together. The lid has a nice overhang. Also, simple thumb moulding decorates the front and sides of the lid. The lid hangs on 18th century iron strap hinges, so these are a later period addition. In addition, a working steel lock and key keep the contents secure.

fig 5. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 5. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

Original V-Shaped Bracket Feet:

The chest stands on its original length stiles (feet). Here, the end boards run down to form the feet, and saw cuts shape them into v-shaped brackets. The maker also carried the cut higher on the outside face. It is nice to see the feet at their original height. Usually, owners cut them down, the feet suffered damage, or damp and cold floors wore them away. After all, the feet were the main point of contact with damp floors.

fig 6. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 6. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

Original Colour and Patination:

The back of the coffer keeps its original rough-hewn board, and the original floor is also present. Moreover, the original wax polish survives. As a result, the oak has a lovely mellow colour and patination. The interior is clean and dry. So, the coffer is both practical and usable today.

fig 7. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 7. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

Condition Report:

The coffer is in excellent condition, considering its age. It has 18th century iron strap hinges and a working steel lock (with key). Also, the antique chest retains its original top, front, sides, back, floor and legs. Moreover, it stands on the original length stiles (feet), which is rare to see. There are nominal old marks to the top, edges, sides and leading edges. However, these are nothing significant for a piece of this age. Indeed, such old use marks are inevitable and perfectly acceptable! The interior is clean, dry and practical. Finally, the coffer is solid in joint. It does not wobble on the floor, so it is ready to use.

fig 8. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 8. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

Price & Delivery:

The price for this item is £975. This includes free delivery to mainland England, Wales and southern Scotland*, plus 14-day free UK returns.

14-Day Free UK Returns & Refunds:

A 14-day free “no quibble” returns policy (from the date you receive the item) is available if you are not happy with this item. We will collect the item free of charge from you (we do not charge a return fee / collection fee).

fig 9. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 9. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

International Buyers:

If you live outside the UK and you would like to purchase this item, please contact us before purchasing it, so that we can obtain an accurate shipping quote and delivery lead-time.

fig 10. A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
fig 10. Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

About the Seller:

This item is being sold by Yola Gray Antiques who is an accredited member of LAPADA and CINOA. Yola Gray has dealt in fine art and antique furniture for over 50 years.

Product Code: 121442

Height
58cm (22.83")
Width
111cm (43.70")
Depth
38cm (14.96")
Date of Manufacture

Yolanda Gray Antiques has dated this 17th Century Oak Coffer to the 17th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1241142
Dealers Internal Ref
121442
Yolanda Gray Antiques
Yolanda Gray Antiques
Sellingantiques verified Since Aug 2010
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Yolanda Gray Antiques Profile Page

Trade Associations

Yolanda Gray Antiques is a registered member of LAPADA  CINOA

PDF SHARE
SAVE
A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
1 / 15
Archive I A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.

Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)

Archive II A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View II
Archive III A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View III
Archive IV A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View IV
Archive V A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View V
Archive VI A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View VI
Archive VII A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View VII
Archive VIII A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View VIII
Archive IX A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View IX
Archive X A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View X
Archive XI A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View XI
Archive XII A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View XII
Archive XIII A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View XIII
Archive XIV A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View XIV
Archive XV A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail. View XV
FURTHER BROWSING

Visitors also looked at these ⇣

Enlarged Archival View
Location
Unit 4
Organsdale Farm
Kelsall
Tarporley
Cheshire
CW6 0SR
United Kingdom
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/yg
Verified Since Aug 2010
Items For Sale 116
Items Sold 2,087
Yolanda Gray Antiques
Yolanda Gray Antiques
Verified Since Aug 2010
View Dealer Info
Location: Unit 4, Organsdale Farm, Kelsall, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0SR, United Kingdom
Verified
Aug 2010
For Sale
116
Sold
2,087
A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
Antique English 17th Century Oak Coffer – Six Plank Sword Chest, Blanket Box & Ottoman (Circa 1650–1680)
Ref: SA1241142
A rectangular dark brown oak six-plank coffer featuring V-cut side legs and iron keyhole escutcheon detail.
Detail View 1
Detail View 2
Detail View 3
Detail View 4
Detail View 5
Detail View 6
Detail View 7
Detail View 8
Detail View 9
Detail View 10
Detail View 11
Detail View 12
Detail View 13
Detail View 14
Archival Detail
Every single antique dealer on our platform is individually approved by our internal team. We verify their professional trade history, ethical standards, and photographic quality to ensure a secure, high-standard buying environment. Upon joining, every dealer agrees to a strict 9-point code of conduct. While issues can occasionally arise, our dealers typically resolve them swiftly and directly with the buyer. In fact, since our founding in 2002, Sellingantiques has only had to step in to help resolve an issue on roughly five occasions—a true testament to the quality of our dealers and their dedication to your happiness.
Our dealers are highly experienced in packing and shipping fragile, high-value antiques. Because you are in direct contact with the dealer, you will be able to easily go through all available shipping and insurance options together to ensure your item arrives safely.
Antiques are the ultimate green purchase. By choosing historical pieces over newly manufactured goods, you completely eliminate the carbon footprint of modern mass production while preserving exceptional, timeless craftsmanship.
Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectCoffers & Chests
  • Period17th century
  • Style17th Century British
  • MaterialOak, Iron
  • ColourDark Brown
  • MotifsSix-plank construction, V-cut side feet, Iron escutcheon, Hinged lid
  • SizeH 58 cm (23 in) x W 111 cm (44 in) x D 38 cm (15 in)

This seventeenth-century English coffer is a six-plank sword chest from the Commonwealth and Charles II period, dating between 1650 and 1680. Solid oak forms the primitive boarded construction, presenting a dark brown timber colour with a waxed finish and visible patination. The rectangular design incorporates a hinged lid with thumb moulding, an iron keyhole escutcheon on the front, and V-cut bracket feet formed from the extended side boards. Nominal marks appear across the surfaces from age and use, alongside later eighteenth-century iron strap hinges. Measuring 58 cm high, 111 cm wide, and 38 cm deep, the chest functions practically as a blanket box or ottoman in a living room, hallway, or bedroom. Traditional country furniture of this type suits domestic storage needs while adding historical character to an interior. The secure hinged lid allows safe placement of blankets, linens, or personal items inside the dry interior cavity. Placed against a wall or at the foot of a bed, the compact proportions fit smaller spaces effectively. The solid wood construction provides a stable surface that stands firm on domestic flooring. Regular use preserves the functional qualities of the piece while maintaining its heritage aesthetic within a home environment.

A six-plank coffer is a functional timber storage chest constructed from six solid boards of wood, typically oak, secured with iron nails or wooden pegs. Originating in medieval Europe and continuing through the 17th century, these items served as durable containers for household linens, clothing, and valuables.

These chests were constructed using solid quarter-sawn English oak boards. Assembly relied on hand-forged iron nails, simple rebated corner joints, and end boards extended downward with V-cut profiles to form integrated side legs.

Authentic period pieces display hand-saw marks, irregular hand-forged iron hardware, simple joinery, and natural timber shrinkage over centuries. Dark oxidisation around iron fasteners, uneven surfaces from hand-planing, and a natural wax patina indicate historical authenticity.

An early oak coffer functions effectively as a low coffee table, a hallway storage bench, or a linen trunk positioned at the foot of a bed. Its simple geometric form contrasts effectively with contemporary upholstered furniture and modern minimalist spaces.

Dust the wood regularly with a dry, soft cloth and apply clear beeswax polish periodically to nourish the oak surface. Maintain stable indoor humidity levels and keep the piece away from direct heat sources, radiators, or damp walls to prevent timber movement.
items
Add keywords to the filter
Price
£100
£250000
Era
Period
Style
Material
Origin
Stock Location
Recently Added
Online Payments
Categories