1. Vinyl Records
During the pandemic cleanouts, many people discarded their old vinyl records. Now, the resurgence of vinyl culture has made rare albums from the ’60s and ’70s worth hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.
2. Retro Video Game Consoles
Many considered old gaming systems like the NES, Sega Genesis, and original PlayStation as outdated clutter. Today, collectors pay top dollar for these vintage consoles, especially when they include original packaging and games.
3. Vintage Furniture
Minimalist trends in 2020 led to people tossing ornate mid-century and vintage furniture. Now, these pieces are highly sought after in the secondhand market, especially as unique alternatives to mass-produced designs.
4. Early Smartphones
Old tech, like first-generation iPhones or original Android models, was often discarded as junk. Collectors now value these devices as historical artifacts, with some models fetching significant sums online.
5. Classic Board Games
Games like Clue, Risk, or The Game of Life in their original packaging were often donated or trashed. Today, collectors and nostalgic buyers are paying premiums for these vintage editions.
6. Silverware and China Sets
Many families decluttered heirloom tableware in favor of simpler, modern options. Now, antique silverware and china sets have regained value among collectors and vintage home decorators.
7. First-Edition Books
Shelves were cleared of old books in 2020, but rare first editions—especially of iconic novels or signed copies—can now fetch thousands at auctions and online marketplaces.
8. Baseball Cards
During attic cleanouts, childhood collections of baseball cards were often discarded. Today, rare cards, especially those from the 1980s and earlier, are making a massive comeback in value.
9. Cassette Tapes and Walkmans
Cassette tapes and their players were dismissed as obsolete tech. However, the renewed interest in analog audio means these items are now collectible, with certain tapes fetching hundreds of dollars.
10. Vintage Clothing
Many people donated or tossed old clothes during 2020. Vintage fashion, especially from the ’80s and ’90s, is now trending and highly desirable, with certain brands commanding premium prices.
11. Antique Tools
Rusty tools from garages and sheds were frequently discarded as junk. Collectors and craftsmen now prize these durable, vintage tools for their craftsmanship and utility.
12. Polaroid Cameras
Outdated instant cameras were viewed as relics of the past and often discarded. Today, they are highly collectible, with enthusiasts valuing both the cameras and original film packs.
13. Comic Books
Collections of old comics were often purged to make room. Now, rare issues, especially those featuring iconic superheroes, are booming in value, with some selling for tens of thousands of dollars.
14. Beanie Babies
While they seemed like a fad long past its prime, certain rare Beanie Babies have regained value, with collectors willing to pay thousands for specific designs in mint condition.
