How to Tell If You Have an Antique Sombrero

Sombreros can be as large as 15 feet in diameter.

The word sombrero is a Mexican word that means shadow — it is thought that Sombrero hats were named after this word because of the large shadows they cast on the faces of those who wear them. Sombreros have been worn as early as the 15th century and were the inspiration for the cowboy hat. If you have a sombrero at home and you think it might be an antique, there are a few steps you can use to tell how old the hat is and whether or not it is worth anything on the antique market.

Instructions

1. Factor in the price you paid for the sombrero. When it comes to antiques, the price you pay is a good indication of whether or not the hat is real. Antique sombreros in good condition can be sold for a five digit figure. If your sombrero was sold commercially or was inexpensive, chances are it is not an antique.

2. Inspect the sombrero to determine what it is made of. In the 21st century, sombreros are made of cheap plastic materials or painted straw. Antique sombreros would have been made out of tan, grey or black felt or straw if the sombrero belonged to a worker. If the sombrero is made from modern materials like velvet, you know it is not authentic.

3. Inspect the underside of the hat for any indications as to the year it was made. If you have a modern sombrero with a tag that says the date it was made, you know the hat in your possession is not a true antique. Otherwise, you might find initials of who made the sombrero to help you determine the year it was made.

4. Take the sombrero to an antique dealer who specializes in Mexican garments. If you are unable to find any visual clues to help you determine if you have an antique sombrero, take it to a professional antiques dealer or curator who has experience with Mexican history.

References

• Britannica: Sombrero (Hat)
• PBS: Antiques Roadshow San Antonio