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Key Unlocks $1.6M Cabinet's Hidden History
12 Oct
Summary
- A 1677 Salem carved oak cabinet sold for $1.64 million.
- The cabinet's original key confirmed its rare 17th-century authenticity.
- It is one of five known examples from the Symonds shops.
A rare 1677 carved oak cabinet, originating from Salem, Massachusetts, achieved a remarkable sale price of $1,636,000 in January 2026. This "Highly Important Symon and Rebeckah Horne Pilgrim Century Valuables Cabinet" is attributed to the esteemed Symonds shops.
Initially submitted via photographs, the cabinet's true significance was revealed by its original key, a detail that convinced specialists of its 17th-century authenticity. This piece is exceptionally rare, being one of only five known examples from the Symonds shops and uniquely retaining its original key.
The cabinet, bearing the initials of Symon and Rebeckah Horne and the date 1677, descended through the family before passing to a historical society. After decades in their quiet possession, it was brought to auction, ultimately fetching the highest price for American furniture in more than ten years.
