Over the next few years, experts anticipate the U.S. collectibles market will grow at a rate of 4.8% CAGR. The vintage segment leads the market, holding 40.6% of total revenue in 2023, GrandView Research highlights.
Have you taken a look at Grandma’s old things stored in the attic? The doilies, dusty dishes, and weird knick-knacks? That “junk” you never gave a second thought to might actually be hidden treasure.
Vintage treasures are commanding the highest prices from collectors because nostalgia has become its own form of currency. So before you donate that box labeled “misc.,” take a peek… you might be sitting on a small fortune.
Pyrex Dishes
Those colorful mixing bowls you thought were just for casseroles? Big collectors’ item. Sets of vintage “Gooseberry” or “Butterprint” patterns from the 1950s and ’60s can bring between $300 and $1,000 when they are offered for sale, depending on their condition.
Certain promotional or limited-edition Pyrex items have been listed for $10,000+, such as the Blue Corn Flower casserole dish from the 1960s, as per Chronicle Collectibles. The market is showing increased demand for uncommon colors, such as pink and turquoise. So yes, that lasagna pan might just be your golden ticket.
Costume Jewelry
Even though Grandma’s jewelry isn’t made of real diamonds, it’s not valueless. Vintage jewelry brands, such as Trifari, Weiss, and Monet, retain high collectible value, especially when in good condition.
A single signed brooch can sell for over $100. For example, a Schreiner New York Crystal Brooch, featuring a bold red centerpiece surrounded by pearl-like beads, can sell for almost $8,000.
And sets? Even more. Basically, if it sparkles and screams “Ethel wore this to bingo in ’62,” it’s worth a second look.
Vintage Tupperware
Yes, really. The avocado green and harvest gold Tupperware containers sell like hotcakes. The pastel Wonderlier bowls or Servalier sets, among other rare items, are valued at over $100, as per WorthPoint.
Tupperware collectors display genuine enthusiasm and retro colorways excite their passion. Before you throw anything away, make sure to look through the back of Grandma’s pantry.
Old Typewriters
The inherent charm of a clunky manual typewriter evokes deep romantic feelings. The sleek models, such as the Smith-Corona Sterling and the Royal Quiet De Luxe, attract both writers and collectors.
The sale price for working models ranges from $150 to over $500, depending on their rarity and design features. Certain historical models, like the 1878 Hansen Writing Ball, have sold for over $123,000.
Collectors receive extra admiration for working typewriters that produce the classic “ding!” sound.
Vintage Quilts
Collectors show a preference for hand-stitched quilts that feature intricate designs such as “Double Wedding Ring” or “Log Cabin.” Modern manufacturing techniques have produced work that falls short of this level of craftsmanship.
Vintage quilts that remain in excellent condition fetch prices between $300 and $2,500, varying based on age, fabric and design. For example, the Reconciliation Quilt was sold at Sotheby’s in 1991 for $264,000.
Retro Board Games
That old Monopoly set with wooden houses or the original Clue board? It could be worth $100+, especially if it’s from the 1950s or earlier.
There are cult followings even for ’60s niche games such as “Mystery Date” or “Green Ghost.” Bonus if all the pieces are still there. Who knew Grandma’s game night leftovers were this valuable?
Vintage Handbags
Grandma’s purse collection could potentially contain items beyond just mints and tissues. Dooney & Bourke handbags and Coach bags made in the U.S.A., along with anonymous Lucite clutches or beaded bags from the ’40s–’60s, have become collectible items.
Some bags can fetch prices ranging from $200 up to $1,000 or beyond. For instance, a circa 1900 antique gold mesh purse with acorn finials was reported to have been sold for more than $10,000. Vintage chic remains popular, as it has never truly disappeared from fashion trends.
Mid-Century Furniture
Keep that low-slung couch and hairpin-leg coffee table because they have significant value. Designs from Eames, Heywood-Wakefield, and Danish teak furniture, hold significant monetary value, reaching thousands of dollars.
For example, a George Nakashima “Conoid” bench, is worth as much as $42,500. That stuff your parents called “dated”? Now it’s designer.
Old Vinyl Records
Check for original pressings of rock ‘n’ roll, jazz, and blues albums. Collectors consider items by Elvis, The Beatles, and Miles Davis to be extremely valuable assets.
Collectors can pay hundreds to thousands for albums that are in mint condition. Search for first pressings, clean covers, and no scratches. Vinyl is making a huge comeback—and Grandma might be holding the hits.
Depression Glass
During the Great Depression, these pastel-colored glass pieces were distributed for free, but they have become valuable collectibles today. The most sought-after Depression Glass patterns are “Cameo,” “Mayfair,” and “Royal Lace.”
Individual pieces from complete sets or uncommon colors, such as cobalt blue and pink, range from $50 to $500 each. That dainty glass candy dish? Might not be so humble after all.
Old Cookbooks
Grandma’s stained handwritten recipe books hold value as collectibles, especially when they are first editions or contain regional or rare cuisines.
Cookbooks featuring vintage Betty Crocker recipes and Julia Child’s works, along with church fundraiser editions, attract nostalgic food enthusiasts. Some editions sell for $50 to $300.
And those scribbled notes in the margins? Priceless to the right buyer.
First-Edition Books
First editions gain special value when they are classic literature works or well-known children’s stories. First editions from authors such as Dr. Seuss, Ernest Hemingway, or Harper Lee generate sales ranging from $500 to tens of thousands, depending on the title and physical state of the book.
Look for a full number line or phrases like “First Printing.” You might want to handle those bookshelf treasures with gloves.
Antique Sewing Machines
Don’t write off a Singer sewing machine that operates with a hand crank or treadle mechanism as worthless. Antique sewing machines featuring intricate gold decals that function properly can have values ranging from $200 to $2,000.
The value increases if the item remains in its original cabinet or comes with original accessories. Crafters and collectors both want a piece of sewing history.
Vintage Cameras
Older camera models, such as the Leica, Polaroid SX-70, and Kodak Brownie, generate great excitement among film photography enthusiasts. Camera prices range from $100 to $1,000, depending on the make and model.
Look for clean lenses and functioning mechanics. A cash opportunity awaits you if you have an old family camera.
Holiday Decorations
The contents of Grandma’s Christmas box could exceed your expectations in value. Collectors pay between $25 and $500 for each vintage ornament from brands such as Shiny Brite or old ceramic Christmas trees.
Vintage Halloween and Easter decorations from the 1950s through the 1970s command strong resale market values. Tinsel, ceramic bunnies, plastic pumpkins—they’re holiday gold.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Nostalgia = Big Bucks. That Pyrex bowl, Tupperware lid, or old game of Clue? Millennials and Gen Z are obsessed with vintage, and collectors are shelling out serious cash for anything that screams mid-century charm.
- The Weirder, the Better. Collectors seek out unusual costume jewelry, vintage green kitchenware from the 1970s, and typewriters that produce a distinctive “ding” sound. If it feels like it belongs in a ‘60s sitcom, chances are it’s collectible.
- Condition Counts—But So Does Story. Well-maintained items tend to have better market appeal. Historically significant pieces, such as handwritten cookbooks and worn quilts, hold substantial value for certain collectors. Grandma’s touch adds heart and worth.
- Don’t Donate Just Yet. Before you toss or thrift that dusty old box, do a quick online search—or ask Grandma about its story. That holiday décor or handbag might just fund your next vacation (or at least a fancy brunch).
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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