National Food Grinder Appraisal

Antique National No. 25 Cast Iron Food and Meat Grinder

This is an antique manual food grinder, specifically the National No. 25 model, likely dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. The item is constructed primarily of heavy tinned cast iron, designed for durability and kitchen utility. It features a recognizable S-shaped hand crank with a contoured wooden handle grip, which shows signs of smooth patina from decades of use. The body of the grinder is embossed with prominent block lettering that reads "NATIONAL" and "25" on the hopper side, indicating the brand and model size. The structure includes a large threaded clamp screw with a classic wingnut-style head, intended for securing the device to the edge of a kitchen table or countertop. Physically, the grinder shows a dark, aged patina with significant spots of surface oxidation and rust, particularly around the grinding plate and the moving mechanical joints. The original tinning—white-metal coating used to prevent iron from rusting into food—has worn away in many high-friction areas, revealing the dark charcoal gray of the cast iron beneath. There are no visible cracks or missing structural components, and the grinding die plate is currently attached with its securing wingnut. The craftsmanship is typical of the Industrial Industrial Era, emphasizing functional strength and mechanical simplicity. This piece is a classic example of American kitchenware from the turn of the century and serves as a highly collectible utilitarian object.