1. Vintage Perfume Bottles
Old perfume bottles from brands like Chanel, Guerlain, or Lalique are surprisingly collectible. Bottles with intricate designs, original labels, or limited releases are highly sought. Even empty bottles can be valuable if they’re in good condition. The combination of artistry and nostalgia makes them collectible.
Collectors especially love ornate or unusual bottles, like atomizers or colored glass designs. Bottles from the early 20th century are rare and often command premium prices. Brand history and rarity are key to determining value. Don’t toss that delicate bottle—you might have a hidden gem.
2. Vintage Watches
Vintage watches, especially Swiss-made brands like Rolex or Omega, are incredibly sought after. Certain models from the 1950s and 1960s have skyrocketed in value. Limited editions or rare dials often command the highest prices among collectors. The intricate craftsmanship of older watches adds a layer of desirability beyond just the brand name.
Even watches in need of repair can be valuable because parts for vintage models are rare. Provenance—like celebrity ownership or historical significance—can also dramatically increase worth. Many enthusiasts treat these watches as both investments and wearable art. If you stumble across a family heirloom watch, it’s worth having it appraised.
3. Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Furniture from the mid-20th century, such as Eames chairs or Danish teak pieces, has become highly collectible. The sleek design and quality craftsmanship stand out even decades later. Original pieces in good condition often sell for thousands at auctions or design stores. Reproductions exist, but authentic vintage pieces are what make serious money.
These items are more than functional—they’re conversation starters. Collectors look for marks, labels, and even the type of wood to verify authenticity. A well-preserved mid-century chair or cabinet can appreciate in value over time. So, if you inherit an old sideboard, don’t underestimate its potential.
4. Vintage Jewelry
Old jewelry, especially pieces from the Victorian, Art Deco, or Retro eras, can be surprisingly valuable. Gold and platinum pieces with genuine gemstones are highly sought after. Even costume jewelry from brands like Trifari or Eisenberg has a collectible market. Condition, rarity, and provenance all play a huge role in determining price.
Estate sales are treasure troves for these finds, often offering pieces at fractions of their eventual value. Certain designs, like intricate filigree or geometric Art Deco cuts, are timeless. Collectors and fashion historians alike hunt for them. A simple brooch tucked away in a drawer could be worth hundreds or more.
5. Vintage Vinyl Records
Vinyl records from the 1950s through the 1980s have made a huge comeback among collectors. Original pressings, especially first editions, can fetch hundreds or thousands. Albums from iconic artists like The Beatles or Led Zeppelin are particularly desirable. Condition of the vinyl and sleeve is critical—scratches and tears reduce value.
Limited releases or misprints can be unexpectedly valuable. For example, a rare misprinted label might make a record a collector’s holy grail. Even lesser-known artists can become valuable if the record is scarce. So, before tossing your old records, check online marketplaces for recent sales.
6. Antique Cameras
Old cameras, particularly models from Leica, Rolleiflex, and Polaroid, can be surprisingly lucrative. Collectors love mechanical cameras with unique lenses or vintage styling. Cameras from the early 20th century often command higher prices. Even those in non-working condition can be valuable for parts or display.
Photography enthusiasts also hunt for rare models with limited production runs. Some early Polaroids, for instance, have cult followings. Condition, brand, and historical context all factor into the price. So, that dusty camera from your parents’ attic might be worth more than you think.
7. Retro Video Game Consoles
Gaming has become a collectible hobby, and old consoles are at the center of it. Systems like the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) or Sega Genesis are highly sought after. Complete-in-box versions fetch the highest prices. Even consoles with minor cosmetic wear are still collectible due to nostalgia.
Games themselves can also be surprisingly valuable. Titles like Stadium Events or early Legend of Zelda cartridges have sold for thousands. Rarity, condition, and packaging are key determinants of value. So, before donating that old console, it’s worth a quick online search.
8. Vintage Postcards
Believe it or not, old postcards can be quite valuable, especially those depicting cities, landmarks, or significant events. Early 20th-century postcards in excellent condition often sell to collectors. Unique features like handwritten messages or rare printing techniques increase desirability. Even local scenes from small towns have a market if they’re scarce.
Postcards are tiny historical snapshots capturing the culture of their era. Some collectors specialize in specific themes like holidays, transportation, or military correspondence. Limited print runs or unusual artwork can dramatically boost value. So, if you find a postcard collection, take a closer look before discarding it.
9. Vintage Vinyl Toys and Action Figures
Toys from the 1970s and 1980s, especially Star Wars, GI Joe, or Transformers figures, are hot collectibles. Mint condition items with original packaging sell for astonishing sums. Some rare variants or prototypes are practically priceless. The nostalgia factor plays a huge role in their market.
Collectors often hunt for specific years or production mistakes that make a figure unique. Even broken toys can be worth something if they’re exceptionally rare. The combination of brand, age, and condition determines the final price. That boxed action figure in your closet might be a small fortune waiting.
10. Vintage Comic Books
Comic books from the Golden and Silver Ages are highly collectible, particularly first appearances of popular characters. Condition and rarity are critical; even a minor crease can affect value. Key issues, like Spider-Man #1 or Action Comics #1, are iconic and can sell for hundreds of thousands. Some lesser-known titles still hold value due to limited print runs.
Grading systems by companies like CGC help standardize comic book values. Signed copies or those with historical significance command even higher prices. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for pristine issues. If you find old comics in storage, it’s worth an expert appraisal.
11. Antique Glassware
Depression-era glass, Murano glass, and certain colored glass pieces are collectible. Handmade craftsmanship and distinctive patterns increase value. Even chipped or cracked pieces can hold interest for collectors of rare designs. Some companies, like Fenton or Blenko, have cult followings.
Glassware collectors often look for signature marks or labels to confirm authenticity. Unique colors, like cobalt blue or carnival glass, are particularly desirable. Limited production runs or discontinued styles can dramatically increase value. So, that old vase in the attic could surprise you at auction.
12. First-Edition Books
First-edition books, especially classics like Harry Potter or The Great Gatsby, can fetch thousands at auction. Collectors are constantly hunting for pristine copies with dust jackets intact. Condition is everything—slightly torn pages or missing covers drastically reduce value. Even lesser-known titles can surprise you if they’re from a notable author’s early work.
The charm of first editions isn’t just monetary; it’s the history captured in a single copy. Some collectors pay top dollar for inscriptions or signatures from the author. It’s like holding a tangible piece of literary history in your hands. So, before tossing that old novel, check for edition notes or printing numbers inside the front cover.
13. Vintage Board Games
Board games from the 1960s to 1980s, like the original Monopoly editions or early Dungeons & Dragons sets, have become collectibles. Games in their original boxes with pieces intact fetch the highest prices. Rare promotional editions or misprints increase desirability. Nostalgia plays a huge role in driving collector interest.
Even games from smaller companies can be valuable if they’re hard to find. Some classic titles sell for hundreds or thousands, depending on condition and rarity. Early editions often have unique artwork or rules that were later changed. So, if you have an old game gathering dust, it’s worth a careful look.
14. Vintage Typewriters
Old typewriters from brands like Underwood, Remington, and Smith-Corona are now prized collectibles. Their sturdy craftsmanship and classic design appeal to both writers and decor enthusiasts. Models with glass keys or unique colors, such as mint green or red enamel, are especially valuable. Even nonfunctional typewriters can sell for impressive prices if they’re rare or visually striking.
Collectors value typewriters that come with original cases, instruction manuals, or known provenance. Machines once used by authors or journalists are even more desirable. The resurgence of analog appreciation has boosted demand for these mechanical relics. So before you donate that dusty old typewriter, check to see if it could fund your next writing desk.
15. Vintage Sewing Machines
Antique sewing machines, particularly treadle or hand-crank models, have become surprisingly valuable. Brands like Singer, Pfaff, and White are especially sought after for their ornate cast-iron bases and intricate detailing. Machines with original decals, intact mechanisms, and serial numbers tend to attract serious buyers. Their blend of functionality and historical craftsmanship makes them timeless collector’s pieces.
Interior designers often repurpose these machines as statement furniture, further driving demand. Early 20th-century models with gold filigree or unique stitching capabilities fetch premium prices. Collectors appreciate their durability and connection to a bygone era of handmade artistry. If one’s been sitting in your basement, it might be time for an appraisal.
16. Vintage Advertising Signs
Old metal or porcelain advertising signs have exploded in popularity among collectors. Classic brands like Coca-Cola, Mobil, or Texaco often top auction lists. Signs with bright colors, minimal rust, and original mounting holes are the most valuable. The mix of nostalgia, graphic design, and Americana gives these pieces enduring charm.
Some rare signs, especially gas station or tobacco ads, can sell for thousands. Size, condition, and rarity are the main factors determining worth. Even smaller signs or partial panels can have collector appeal if they feature iconic logos. Before repainting or discarding one, check online—yours might be a relic worth saving.
17. Vintage Musical Instruments
Old guitars, violins, or brass instruments can turn out to be serious investments. Brands like Gibson, Fender, and Martin are particularly collectible among musicians and investors alike. Instruments with original parts, serial numbers, and cases command higher prices. Even worn instruments can be valuable if they have historical or tonal significance.
The growing vintage music market values craftsmanship and sound quality that modern replicas can’t replicate. Instruments owned by notable musicians or linked to specific eras are especially prized. Collectors often look for limited production runs or discontinued models. That old guitar in your attic could easily be worth more than you think.
18. Vintage Pyrex and Kitchenware
Mid-century Pyrex bowls, casserole dishes, and glassware have become hot collector items. Patterns like “Butterprint,” “Gooseberry,” and “Snowflake” are fan favorites. Sets in excellent condition or with rare colorways fetch top dollar among enthusiasts. Their nostalgic charm and durability make them beloved across generations.
Collectors often hunt for complete sets, lids, and patterns discontinued decades ago. Even a single rare bowl can sell for hundreds if it’s in mint condition. The resurgence of vintage kitchen decor has only boosted demand. Before you pass on Grandma’s old mixing bowl, it’s worth checking its pattern name online.
19. Vintage Concert Posters
Original concert posters from the 1960s and 1970s have become coveted collectibles. Psychedelic designs from venues like the Fillmore or artists like Wes Wilson are especially valuable. Posters for legendary performers—The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, or The Grateful Dead—regularly fetch thousands. Authentic first printings are the most prized, while reprints hold only decorative value.
Collectors look for vibrant color, minimal creasing, and verified provenance. Posters tied to culturally significant events or limited runs can dramatically increase in value. Even local or lesser-known concert posters attract niche collectors. If you find one rolled up in storage, it could be more than just wall art.
20. Vintage Holiday Decorations
Old Christmas or Halloween decorations, particularly those from the 1940s to 1960s, can be surprisingly valuable. Hand-blown glass ornaments, cardboard die-cuts, and paper mâché figures are among the most sought after. Popular makers like Shiny Brite or Beistle have strong followings among nostalgic collectors. Even slightly worn pieces are cherished for their craftsmanship and seasonal charm.
Collectors value originality, bright color, and intact detailing. Limited-edition sets or themed series can command impressive prices during the holidays. The mix of sentimentality and scarcity makes these items perennial favorites. So before tossing those old ornaments, consider that they might sparkle far beyond sentimental value.
This post 20 Vintage Items That Turn Out to Be Surprisingly Valuable was first published on Greenhouse Black.
