17 Surprising Collectibles Could Worth More Than You Think (2024)

Collecting items is a popular pastime enjoyed by many people around the world. From stamps to vintage toys, there is a wide range of objects that capture our fascination. However, what most people don’t realize is that some of the items they collect could potentially hold significant value.

1. Vintage Vinyl Records

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Vinyl records have experienced a resurgence in recent years, captivating both avid collectors and music enthusiasts alike. While you may have a collection of old records gathering dust in your attic, some of them could fetch a handsome sum. Limited-edition pressings, rare releases, and albums from popular artists of the past are highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

2. Comic Books

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Don’t dismiss those old comic books you loved reading as a child. Certain editions and issues have soared in value over time, especially those featuring the first appearances of iconic superheroes. The condition of the comic book plays a crucial role in determining its worth, with well-preserved copies commanding higher prices. It’s worth investigating if your collection could be a hidden goldmine.

3. Vintage Perfume Bottles

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Collecting vintage perfume bottles is a niche but potentially lucrative hobby. These bottles, often crafted with intricate designs and made from fine materials like crystal or hand-blown glass, can be highly valuable.The rarity and the condition of the bottle, as well as the fame of the glassmaker or perfume brand, can greatly enhance its worth.

4. Old Coins and Currency

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Coins and banknotes from the past can be rather valuable, particularly if they are uncommon, significant historically, or have printing flaws.Collectors often look for items that were in limited circulation or discontinued, making them rarer and more valuable. The age, condition, and rarity of the currency are key factors in determining its value.

5. Vintage Typewriters

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Vintage typewriters are not only appealing for their nostalgic value but also for their collectible worth. Typewriters from the early 20th century, especially those that are still functional or from well-known brands like Remington or Royal, can be quite valuable. Collectors often seek models with unique designs or historical significance.

6. Antique Glassware

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Decanters, bowls, and other pieces of antique glassware—especially those made by well-known producers like Waterford or Murano—can be very valuable.The value of these pieces often depends on their age, the intricacy of their design, and their condition. Glassware that is part of a complete set or has unique colorations also tends to be more sought after.

7. Historical Documents and Letters

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Original historical documents, letters, or manuscripts can be incredibly valuable, particularly those linked to significant historical events or figures.Collectors prize items that provide a unique insight into history, such as signed documents, handwritten letters, or first-hand accounts of important events. The authenticity and condition of these documents are critical in determining their value.

8. Antique Toys

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From action figures to model cars, antique toys hold immense nostalgic value for many collectors. However, they can also have significant monetary worth. Rare toys from bygone eras, especially those still in their original packaging, can command substantial prices at auctions and among collectors. It’s worth digging through your childhood toy chest to see if you possess any hidden gems.

9. Vintage Video Games

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If you have a collection of video games from the ’80s or ’90s, you may be sitting on a potential fortune. Certain rare titles or limited-edition releases have appreciated in value as the demand for retro gaming has grown. Games in pristine condition, accompanied by their original boxes and manuals, tend to fetch the highest prices. Your old gaming collection could hold unexpected value for collectors and gamers alike.

10. Postage Stamps

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Postage stamp collecting, also known as philately, has been a popular hobby for decades. While most stamps won’t fetch a significant price, certain rare stamps or those with printing errors can be worth a fortune. Limited print runs, unique designs, and historical significance all contribute to the value of a stamp. Take a closer look at your stamp collection; you might be surprised by the hidden treasures within.

11. Vintage Jewelry

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Old jewelry pieces that have been passed down through generations or found in thrift stores might be more valuable than you think. Vintage jewelry, particularly items made with precious metals, gemstones, or by renowned designers, can be highly sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts. Researching the origins, craftsmanship, and market value of your vintage pieces can potentially lead to a pleasant surprise.

12. Sports Memorabilia

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Sports memorabilia has a dedicated following of passionate collectors. Items like autographed jerseys, game-used equipment, and trading cards featuring legendary athletes can be highly valuable. Significant events, championship moments, and player milestones all contribute to the worth of sports memorabilia. It’s worth rummaging through your old sports gear or exploring local markets for hidden treasures.

13. Vintage Cameras

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Cameras, particularly those from the analog era, hold a unique charm for photography enthusiasts and collectors alike. Vintage cameras made by prestigious manufacturers or those with historical significance can fetch high prices. Working condition, rarity, and the accompanying lenses also impact their value. Dust off those old film cameras and consider whether they could be worth more than just sentimental value.

14. Vintage Clothing

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Fashion trends come and go, but vintage clothing has a timeless appeal. Clothing items from past eras, particularly those from renowned designers or with unique craftsmanship, are highly sought after. Certain iconic pieces, such as vintage band t-shirts or designer dresses, can command significantprices in the vintage market. Explore your wardrobe and storage spaces to uncover any hidden gems that could potentially be valuable additions to someone’s collection.

15. Antique Books

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Books have long been cherished collectibles, and certain editions or rare volumes can be worth a substantial amount. First editions, books with historical significance, and limited print runs are highly sought after by book collectors. Factors such as condition, author popularity, and the book’s impact on literature also contribute to its value. Take a closer look at your bookshelf; you might have a literary treasure waiting to be discovered.

16. Vintage Board Games

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Board games have been a staple of family entertainment for generations, and certain vintage editions have become highly sought after by collectors. Limited print runs, rare editions, and games based on popular franchises can fetch significant prices. Dust off your old board games and check if you have any hidden treasures that could be worth more than just nostalgic memories.

17. Vintage Advertising Signs

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Old advertising signs, often found in antique stores or salvaged from old buildings, can hold significant value. Signs promoting iconic brands, classic products, or featuring eye-catching designs are highly collectible. The condition, rarity, and historical significance of the sign play a crucial role in determining its worth. Consider exploring flea markets and auctions for vintage advertising signs that could become valuable additions to your collection.

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17 Surprising Collectibles Could Worth More Than You Think (2024)

FAQs

What old household items are worth money? ›

Antique Tools

Your dad's old woodworking tool might work better than its modern equivalent—which means it's also worth more money if sold today. Certain saws, hand drills, and wrenches are widely sought-after by collectors.

What stuff is worth a lot of money? ›

Some of the most valuable collectibles include vintage comic books, baseball cards, and toys. Taking a look through your attic, basem*nt, garage, or closets might turn up some items that you could potentially sell for top dollar.

What's one item that you think might become very valuable over time? ›

Some common collectibles that hold their value are rare coins, classic cars, jewelry, baseball cards, and artwork. Owning a collection of any of these items will not guarantee a return on your investment. But there are examples where each of these collector's items has made some people very wealthy.

What is hot in collectibles now? ›

Some of the most popular types of toys to collect include: Action Figures: Collectible action figures, especially those from popular franchises like Star Wars, G.I. Joe, and Marvel, are highly sought after by toy collectors. Vintage action figures in good condition can command high prices in the collector's market.

What old toy is worth the most money? ›

The 15 most valuable old toys that you might have in your attic (but probably don't)
  • 1938 Action Comics #1. ...
  • 1985 Nintendo Super Mario Bros. ...
  • 1999 Pokémon card Charizard first edition shadowless. ...
  • 1934 Lionel standard gauge train set with 400E locomotive. ...
  • 1964 Hasbro G.I.
Dec 19, 2023

What are the best vintage items to sell? ›

Popular vintage items include jewelry, clothes, accessories, household items, pop culture memorabilia, postcards, photos, vinyl records, cassette and VHS tapes, books, lamps, gadgets of 80s and 90s, toys.

What is the most collectable now? ›

Top 8 In-Demand Collector's Items On The Market
  • Coins. Coins are some of the most popular collectibles that are gaining value. ...
  • Currency. Currency collectibles are worth money far in excess of their face value. ...
  • Stamp Collections. ...
  • Trading Cards. ...
  • Sports Memorabilia. ...
  • Vintage and Antique Toys. ...
  • Comic Books. ...
  • Vinyl Records.
Aug 8, 2023

What's worth collecting now? ›

Art, antiques, stamps, toys, coins and comic books are among the most common collectables sought by investors. And while some are one-off rarities, others are mass-produced items that have become desirable and valuable over time.

What is a rare item? ›

Uniqueness - rarity is relative. Some 'rare' books were printed in limited editions of 500 copies. If 10,000 people want one, that drives the value up. I have sold books of which there were only 1 or 2 known copies in the world. That's true rarity.

What is the most profitable thing to collect? ›

Here are the best collectible investments you can add to your portfolio:
  • Toys.
  • Stamps.
  • Fine Art.
  • Coins.
  • Sports Memorabilia.
  • Sneakers.
  • Movie Collectibles.
  • Cars.

How to find out if items are worth money? ›

You can find out if an item is potentially valuable by doing an online search as your first step. Do some research to learn what would be a fair price for your item, says Martin. "Online valuations via Google, eBay, and the like provide useful feedback on quality and resale potential.

Are any collectibles worth anything? ›

A collectible can be any object that holds great interest to a collector. It doesn't necessarily have a monetary value, but the collector will spend hard-earned money to attain as many as possible. People interested in collecting items of value look for specific attributes to consider the item a collectible.

What are people collecting in 2024? ›

In 2024, there are several things to collect. These include sports memorabilia, old cars, money, decorations, toys, statues, and art.

What's hot vintage collectables? ›

7 Trending Vintage Items
  • Vintage signs.
  • Mid-century modern everything.
  • Lighting.
  • Vintage clothing.
  • Vinyl records.
  • Art deco.
  • Vintage toys.
Dec 26, 2022

How do I know if my old items are valuable? ›

Find an Expert in Your Area

Some larger auction houses—like Heritage Auction—offer complimentary auction assessments where specialists review the item and provide information on its possible value. You should also look for local experts that can give an even better understanding of the market in your region.

How can I find out what my stuff is worth? ›

Try sites such as What's It Worth to You, Value My Stuff, and Worth Point. If you're searching for the tax-deductible value of items that have been donated, you can use valuation sites, tax preparation companies (such as Turbo Tax) or the Salvation Army.

What could be valuable in my house? ›

Vintage toys and games

Remember those cherished toys and board games from your younger days, perhaps stored in the attic? Vintage toys and games, particularly if they are kept in their original packaging, can command impressive prices. Collectors are always searching for these rare items.

How do I find the value of my household items? ›

Check online marketplaces, classified ads and price guides for similar items. Websites, like eBay or Craigslist, can provide insights into what similar items are selling for. Consult appraisers: For high-value items like fine art, antiques, or collectibles, it may be smart to consult a professional appraiser.

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