Antique???

I just aquired a dresser and dressing table from a garage sale for $25. They are really old and in places it's even really hard to see the grain from the wood from what I'm assuming to be a darkening of the finish (it won't rub off, so I don't think it's dirt)
The inside of the drawers are oak, unfinished and really dry, the outside is mostly maple and finished to a dark walnut color. Some chips and dents and marrs that you would expect on something so old.

My question is, How do I do this the right way? Do I strip and refinish completely, do I leave it alone and just try to clean it up, and if so, what do I use to clean it up, especially on the bare dry oak inside the drawers?

HELP!!

Also, the wheels on the bottom are also wood, if this helps put an era on them.

Thanks in advance !!

Stacey

 

Stacey:

My first move (if it were mine) would be to have the piece appraised by someone competent . Check with local antique dealers - they should either have on staff an appraiser or know of one.

Do NOTHING else until you've established its worth 'as-is'. The appraiser can also advise you on what should (or can) be done without hurting the value.