1. Vintage Pyrex
Pyrex glassware, particularly the colorful patterned sets produced between the 1940s and 1980s, has become a hot commodity among collectors. These durable kitchen items were once a staple in every household, but their unique designs and limited-edition patterns have made them highly sought-after today. Popular patterns like “Gooseberry” and “Butterprint” can sell for hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars if they’re in good condition.
According to Martha Stewart, the rarity of certain Pyrex patterns and the nostalgia associated with them have driven up demand in recent years. Complete sets or pieces with vibrant, intact designs are especially valuable. If you have old Pyrex hiding in your cupboards, check the markings and patterns to see if you’re holding a collector’s gem.
2. Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Mid-century modern furniture, known for its clean lines and minimalist aesthetic, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Items like Eames chairs, teak coffee tables, and Danish sideboards have become collector favorites, with original pieces often fetching thousands of dollars at auction. These designs are prized for their craftsmanship and timeless appeal.
As noted by Architectural Digest, authentic mid-century modern pieces from designers like Charles and Ray Eames or Hans Wegner are particularly valuable. If you inherited furniture from the 1950s or 1960s, it’s worth researching its origin and designer to determine its market value. Restored pieces or those in mint condition are especially prized among collectors.
3. Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron cookware, especially vintage pieces from brands like Griswold or Wagner, has become a collector’s dream. These heavy-duty pans, skillets, and Dutch ovens were built to last and are often considered superior to modern cookware. Certain logos, markings, or sizes can make a piece even more desirable to collectors.
According to Southern Living, a well-maintained Griswold skillet can sell for hundreds of dollars, depending on its rarity and condition. Collectors often search for pieces with smooth interiors, which were a hallmark of early cast iron manufacturing. If you’ve inherited old cast iron, it might be worth restoring and appraising before parting with it.
4. Typewriters
Mechanical typewriters, particularly those made by brands like Underwood, Royal, and Smith-Corona, are now considered vintage collectibles. Once a common tool in offices and homes, these machines are now valued for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal. Certain models, like the Olivetti Lettera 32 or Underwood No. 5, are especially sought after.
As highlighted by The New York Times, typewriters in working condition can fetch high prices, especially if they feature unique designs or limited-edition finishes. Collectors are drawn to the tactile experience of typing on a manual typewriter, as well as the nostalgia they evoke. If you have an old typewriter gathering dust, it could be worth restoring or selling to a collector.
5. Vinyl Records
Vinyl records have seen a major resurgence in recent years, with collectors and music enthusiasts seeking out rare and iconic albums. First pressings, limited editions, and albums by legendary artists like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and David Bowie are among the most valuable. Certain records, such as The Beatles’ “Yesterday and Today” with the controversial “butcher cover,” can sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
According to Rolling Stone, the vinyl revival has created a booming market for rare records, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for albums in excellent condition. Original sleeves and inserts can also add to a record’s value. If you have a collection of old records, take the time to research their worth before parting with them.
6. Retro Kitchen Appliances
Vintage kitchen appliances like toasters, mixers, and blenders from brands like Sunbeam and KitchenAid are now highly sought-after for their retro charm. Models with colorful enamel finishes, chrome details, or unique designs are especially popular among collectors. These appliances not only serve as functional tools but also as decorative pieces in modern kitchens.
As reported by Good Housekeeping, retro appliances in working condition can fetch high prices at vintage shops or online marketplaces. Limited-edition colors or designs from the mid-20th century are particularly valuable. If you have an old Sunbeam toaster or a vintage KitchenAid mixer, it could be worth restoring and selling.
7. Vintage Clocks
Vintage clocks, particularly those from the mid-20th century or earlier, are prized for their craftsmanship and design. Brands like Seth Thomas, Howard Miller, and Atmos by Jaeger-LeCoultre have become collector favorites, especially for wall clocks, mantel clocks, and unique novelty designs. Clocks with intricate mechanisms or rare materials can fetch a significant price.
According to Antique Trader, collectors often seek out clocks with original parts and working mechanisms, as these are harder to find. Retro designs, such as starburst wall clocks or art deco-inspired pieces, are especially popular. If you have an old family clock, consider having it appraised—it may be worth more than you think.
8. Milk Glass
Milk glass, a type of opaque glassware popular in the early to mid-20th century, is another item that has found new life among collectors. Known for its milky white appearance and intricate patterns, pieces like vases, bowls, and candy dishes are highly sought after. Some designs, such as hobnail or floral patterns, are particularly valuable.
As highlighted by Country Living, certain milk glass pieces produced by brands like Fenton or Westmoreland are worth hundreds of dollars, especially if they’re rare or in pristine condition. Sets or items with colored accents can also command higher prices. If you’ve inherited milk glass from a relative, it’s worth researching its origins and potential value.
9. Retro Gaming Consoles
Vintage gaming consoles, such as the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Sega Genesis, or Atari 2600, are now highly collectible. These systems, along with their games, have become nostalgic treasures for those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s. Rare games or limited-edition consoles can fetch thousands of dollars among gaming enthusiasts.
According to IGN, unopened or fully functional consoles are the most valuable, with rare games like Super Mario Bros. or The Legend of Zelda in their original packaging commanding top dollar. If you have old gaming consoles tucked away in your attic, they may be worth revisiting to determine their value in today’s market.
10. Depression Glass
Depression glass, a colorful, inexpensive glassware popular during the Great Depression, is now a collector’s item. Produced in vibrant hues like pink, green, and amber, these pieces were once given away as promotional items in cereal boxes or gas stations. Today, certain patterns like “American Sweetheart” or “Cherry Blossom” are highly sought after by collectors.
According to The Spruce Crafts, intact sets or rare colors can sell for hundreds of dollars, with some pieces even fetching more if they’re in mint condition. If you’ve inherited Depression glass, it’s worth researching the patterns and colors to see if you have a hidden treasure.
11. Old Comic Books
Comic books from the golden and silver ages (1930s–1970s) have become one of the most valuable categories of collectibles. Iconic first appearances, like Superman in Action Comics #1 or Spider-Man in Amazing Fantasy #15, can sell for millions of dollars in pristine condition. Even less rare issues can still fetch hundreds or thousands, depending on the characters and storyline.
As noted by Heritage Auctions, comic books in excellent condition with their original covers and no tears or fading are highly desirable. If you have an old collection, consider getting it professionally graded to determine its value. Even seemingly mundane comics could hold significant worth for die-hard collectors.
12. Vinyl-Covered Suitcases
Vintage vinyl-covered suitcases from the mid-20th century are being rediscovered for their retro aesthetic and durability. These colorful, sturdy travel accessories often feature bold patterns, monograms, or brand names like Samsonite or American Tourister. Beyond their functionality, they’ve become popular as decorative items in vintage-themed homes.
According to Apartment Therapy, collectors are especially drawn to matching sets or unique patterns that evoke the golden age of travel. Suitcases in excellent condition with intact linings or original tags can command higher prices. If you’ve come across an old suitcase in storage, it may be worth more than just sentimental value.
13. Advertising Memorabilia
Vintage advertising memorabilia, such as metal signs, tin cans, and branded collectibles, are highly sought after by collectors. Items featuring iconic brands like Coca-Cola, Campbell’s, or Shell Oil often fetch high prices, particularly if they’re in good condition and date back to the early to mid-20th century.
As reported by Antiques Roadshow, signs and items with bold graphics or unique designs are especially valuable. Limited-edition or rare promotional items can also bring in significant sums at auctions. If you’ve held onto old branded goods, they could be a treasure for collectors.
14. Old Sewing Machines
Vintage sewing machines, particularly those made by Singer, Pfaff, or Bernina, are now collector favorites. These machines were built to last, with intricate designs and durable materials that stand the test of time. Certain models, especially those with ornate decals or rare features, are in high demand.
According to Sewing Machine World, functional machines in good condition can sell for hundreds, while rare or antique models can fetch thousands. If you’ve inherited an old sewing machine, it’s worth having it appraised—it could be a collector’s goldmine.
15. Holiday Decorations
Vintage holiday decorations, particularly from the 1940s to the 1970s, are highly collectible today. Items like glass ornaments, ceramic Santa figures, and vintage string lights evoke a sense of nostalgia and are sought after by collectors and holiday enthusiasts alike. Brands like Shiny Brite, known for their colorful glass ornaments, are particularly popular.
As noted by Country Living, rare or unique decorations in good condition can sell for significant amounts, with some ornaments fetching over $100 each. If you’ve held onto old family holiday decorations, they might be worth more than just sentimental value.
