J.W. originals are prized collectibles among Longaberger enthusiasts.  These baskets, woven by John Wendell Longaberger (J.W.) himself, are very rare in the secondary market.  Many of them have been uncovered in rummage sales, garage sales, and estate sales.  Currently, if taken to Dresden, other members of the Longaberger family will authentic and confirm these beautiful treasures on your behalf.  Most of the JW baskets were woven somewhere in the 1940s to 60s.

Things to look for:

1. Logo - look at the bottom.  You may see the original stamp "Ohio Ware Basket Company - Dresden, Ohio".  Some of the baskets may have the logo stamped in the inside of the basket.  It will read "Made in Dresden, Ohio".  (The actual Longaberger name-type stamped logos appeared in 1982.)
2. Price - look at the handle.  You may find the original price such as $1.79 written on the handle.
3. Color and condition - the condition of the basket may significantly affect the value of each Longaberger basket.  In the case of an original J.W., though, you may find buyers and sellers willing to compromise on the condition in return for consideration of age, use, rarity, and sentimental value.  Due to age, you may find some normal darkening in the stains and some normal lightening of the colors.  Again, do not be dismayed.  J.W. baskets are highly sought after by collectors and many would not find this a determent in value.
4. Stain - "Blonde" baskets, such as the JW Cake baskets (12 x 12 x 6) were most likely never stained.  Some collectors call this type of finish ... "natural".  The darker stain is more common on J.W. baskets.  Some of the baskets, for example the medium market (16.5 x 11 x 8.75) may have red accent staining. 
5. Tacking at handles - Upside down V pattern: Almost all of the JW's with a stationary handle will have the trademark upside-down-V pattern of nails adhering the handle to the basket.  This was done in order to add durability and strength to the handle joint.
6. Open-weave bottom - Sometimes found on a JW basket.  This may have been a choice, due to the perceived "function" of the basket.  For example: to allow air flow
7. JW Corn basket - Watch the size!  JW's were much larger than the regular line corn baskets.  JW should measure 19 round x 14 high.  Some of the JW's had open handles (designed into the weave and sides of the basket) and others were made with attached leather handles.
8. Braided trims and tacks and staples - JW started out using the tacks on his baskets, but after receiving a staple gun for Christmas one year he decided to use staples on several of his baskets.  He also used the staple technique when adding braided trim on several baskets.  It is not unusual to find both used on the trim area of his baskets.

It was my pleasure to share this information with you.  Please vote YES below, if you found this information insightful, helpful or entertaining.  I am not associated with Longaberger in anyway... just a huge fan and collector.  Thanks!  shepherd42