1. Grandma’s Costume Jewelry
Before you toss that tangled pile of “faux” pearls or rhinestones, take a closer look. Some mid-century costume jewelry—especially from brands like Trifari, Coro, and Miriam Haskell—can be surprisingly valuable. Collectors love the craftsmanship and design of these pieces, and certain ones can fetch hundreds, even thousands, on resale sites. What looks like a box of outdated accessories might actually fund your first semester’s books.
It’s worth checking for hallmarks or designer stamps on clasps and backs, as that’s often the clue. Vintage jewelry from the 1930s–1950s is especially sought after due to limited production runs and signature designs. Even a single brooch in good condition could bring a nice payout if it’s rare or in demand. So before you write it off as “grandma’s costume junk,” do a little research—there could be treasure in that tin.
2. Old Vinyl Records
Your parents’ dusty record collection might look like clutter, but vinyl has made a major comeback. Albums by artists like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and David Bowie in near-mint condition are especially valuable. First pressings or limited editions can sell for hundreds, sometimes even thousands, to audiophiles and collectors. The key is condition and rarity—scratches or reissues will drop the value fast.
Some records have unique details, like misprinted labels or banned cover art, that make them even more collectible. For example, The Beatles’ “Yesterday and Today” “butcher cover” is legendary among collectors. Even niche genres like early punk or jazz can surprise you with their resale potential. So don’t just donate those boxes—flip through them first, you might be holding a semester’s tuition.
3. Vintage Pyrex
That colorful casserole dish your mom used for every potluck might be more than sentimental—it could be cash-worthy. Certain Pyrex patterns, like “Lucky in Love” or “Butterprint,” are incredibly collectible. Complete sets or rare colors in good condition have sold online for hundreds of dollars. The mid-century designs are especially beloved by collectors who adore the nostalgia factor.
Even single bowls can attract buyers if they’re in great shape and have popular patterns. Avoid putting them in the dishwasher, as scratches or dulling can lower value fast. Some collectors even specialize in specific years or production runs, making niche pieces more valuable. Who knew your family’s old bakeware could pay off a student loan?
4. Vintage Cameras
That old film camera collecting dust in the closet might actually be a collector’s dream. Brands like Leica, Nikon, and Hasselblad have devoted followings, and some models are still prized by photographers. Even if the camera doesn’t work, parts and lenses alone can be worth something. Early digital cameras from the late 1990s and early 2000s are also gaining collectible status.
Condition is key—mint examples with original boxes or manuals sell for top dollar. Certain models, like the Leica M3 or Nikon F, can fetch thousands depending on rarity and condition. Online camera forums and resale sites are good places to check for comparable listings. Before you give it away, make sure that “old junk” isn’t worth a small fortune.
5. Comic Books
Your uncle’s stack of comic books might look like a pile of old paper, but some issues are serious gold. First appearances of major characters—think Spider-Man, Batman, or Iron Man—can bring in massive sums. Even later editions can have value if they’re in great condition and part of a popular run. Grading is everything here; a mint copy can be worth ten times more than a worn one.
It’s worth checking for key issues, like “Amazing Fantasy #15” or early “X-Men” and “Avengers” comics. Reprints are far less valuable, so look for original publication dates and publisher marks. Comic shops and auction houses can help authenticate and grade them. That shoebox in the attic might contain your ticket to debt-free college.
6. Vintage Typewriters
That clunky typewriter in the corner might look obsolete, but vintage machines have a passionate fanbase. Models from brands like Hermes, Royal, and Smith-Corona are sought after for their design and craftsmanship. Some writers and collectors pay hundreds for a working, well-maintained typewriter. Certain colors and rare models can fetch even more.
Mechanical typewriters from the mid-20th century are especially collectible. People love them for their tactile feel and retro aesthetic, and many are being refurbished and sold to hobbyists. Even non-functioning models can be sold for parts or décor. Before you haul it to the thrift store, give that old keyboard a second look—it might just pay your tuition deposit.
7. Military Memorabilia
Old uniforms, medals, or insignia might seem like sentimental keepsakes, but collectors are always searching for authentic military memorabilia. Items from World War I and II, especially those with documentation or personal history, can be particularly valuable. Helmets, badges, and letters from soldiers have a dedicated collector base worldwide. The more complete and well-preserved the item, the higher its potential value.
Certain insignia or patches from specialized units can command hundreds of dollars. Rare medals or original equipment pieces are even more sought after. If your family has a box of service items stored away, have them appraised before selling or donating. That piece of history could do more than honor the past—it could fund your future.
8. Mid-Century Furniture
That outdated coffee table or credenza your grandparents bought in the ’60s might be worth more than you think. Designers like Eames, Knoll, and Herman Miller created furniture that’s now considered modern art. Original pieces with proper markings can sell for thousands. Even lesser-known brands in the same style have strong resale markets.
Condition and authenticity make all the difference, so look for labels or stamps underneath. The mid-century modern aesthetic is timeless, and demand keeps climbing. Refinishing might hurt value, so get advice before you sand or paint anything. Your dorm fund might be hiding in that old living room set.
9. First Edition Books
Books might seem old-fashioned, but certain first editions are literary gold. First printings of classics like “To Kill a Mockingbird” or “The Great Gatsby” can sell for thousands, especially if they still have their dust jackets. Even modern books—like early Harry Potter editions—are worth a small fortune in collectible condition. The trick is knowing what to look for.
Check for “first edition” or “first printing” markings on the copyright page. Collectors also value pristine condition, so tears or stains can dramatically lower value. Signed copies are even more valuable, especially with verified authenticity. That shelf of “junk novels” could turn out to be your scholarship fund in disguise.
10. Old Coins
Loose change in a coffee tin might not seem exciting, but coin collectors—numismatists—pay big for rare finds. Silver coins minted before 1965 often contain actual silver, giving them intrinsic value beyond face amount. Key dates, mint marks, and condition all affect worth. Even a single coin could fetch hundreds if it’s rare enough.
Look for unusual designs, errors, or limited-edition mintings. Pennies from 1943 made of steel, or certain 1955 double-die Lincoln cents, are famously valuable. A quick search or appraisal can help you sort treasure from pocket change. That jar in the closet might be your tuition fund hiding in plain sight.
11. Old Toys and Action Figures
Those dusty toys from your childhood might be worth revisiting. Action figures from lines like Star Wars, G.I. Joe, and Transformers can sell for significant amounts—especially if still in original packaging. Even loose figures can bring decent prices if they’re rare or complete with accessories. Nostalgia drives this market, and demand keeps growing.
Collectors prize toys from the 1970s through early 1990s, particularly ones tied to major franchises. A first-edition Luke Skywalker or original Barbie can bring in serious cash. Check for manufacturer markings and years printed on the toys themselves. That box in the attic might be more valuable than your laptop.
12. Vintage Watches
Old watches passed down through the family can be surprisingly valuable, even if they’re not luxury brands. Vintage Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe models are highly collectible, but even lesser-known mechanical watches have value. Condition, movement type, and originality all affect price. Quartz watches from the 1970s and 1980s are also gaining traction with collectors.
Look for watches with mechanical movements and clean faces—those tend to age best. A working vintage watch with original parts and strap can easily sell for hundreds or more. Auction houses and specialist dealers can authenticate and appraise them accurately. That “worthless” old wristwatch might just help you pay your way through college.
This post 12 “Worthless” Family Heirlooms That Could Pay For Your College was first published on Greenhouse Black.
