You might have more value in your kitchen than you realize. Many old dishes tucked away in cabinets can be antiques that collectors seek out and appreciate.
Knowing which antique dishes to look for can help you uncover hidden treasures right in your own home. Learning what to spot can turn everyday kitchenware into something special.
Hand-painted Tea Sets
You might have a lovely hand-painted tea set tucked away in your cabinet. These sets often feature unique designs, sometimes with delicate floral patterns or intricate gold details.
Hand-painted pieces are special because no two are exactly alike. They can include teapots, cups, saucers, creamers, and sugar bowls.
If your set is vintage, it could also be dishwasher or microwave safe, but only if it doesn’t have colorful patterns. Handle with care to keep the artwork intact.
Fiestaware Dinnerware
You might already have Fiestaware dinnerware hiding in your cabinets. These brightly colored dishes were first introduced in the 1930s and have become popular with collectors.
If your set is vintage or retired, it could add some value and character to your collection. The Cinnabar red color is especially sought after.
Whether you use it daily or keep it as a collectible, Fiestaware is known for its durability and timeless style. Keep an eye out for vintage pieces next time you clean out your kitchen.
Depression Glass Plates
You might find Depression glass plates tucked away in your cabinet, especially if they belonged to an older relative. These plates often come in soft colors like pink, yellow, or blue.
Look for simple floral or geometric patterns. They were made during the 1930s and 40s and were meant to be affordable, but many now have vintage charm. Check for small chips or cracks to know their condition.
Mason Jars
You might have some Mason jars tucked away in your kitchen. These jars, especially older Ball brands, can date back to the late 1800s.
Some vintage Mason jars are worth quite a bit, sometimes fetching a couple hundred dollars. Even if they’re not valuable, they’re handy for storage and crafts.
Keep an eye out for unique colors or embossing, which can add to their value. You never know what treasure you might be storing!
Vintage Jadeite Bowls
You might have vintage jadeite bowls tucked away in your kitchen without realizing their value. These bowls are known for their soft green color and mid-century charm.
Jadeite was popular from the 1930s to the 1950s, especially in mixing bowls and dinnerware sets. Collectors love the unique look and durability of these pieces.
If you find one, check for any maker’s marks or unique shapes, as some designs are more sought after than others. Your jadeite bowl could be a small treasure worth keeping.
Antique Copper Pots
If you find copper pots in your kitchen, you might have a valuable piece. Antique copper cookware, especially from the 19th century, can be worth a lot.
These pots were often handmade and used in French kitchens. Their warm color and craftsmanship make them popular among collectors today.
Even a small set of copper pots can attract serious attention if they’re well-preserved. Keep an eye out for any markings or stamps inside your pots—they can help identify their age and origin.
Sterling Silver Flatware
You might have sterling silver flatware tucked away in your cabinet that’s more valuable than you think. These pieces often come from sets with intricate patterns and can date back to the early 1900s or even earlier.
If your flatware is made of solid sterling silver, it’s marked with “925” or “sterling.” Vintage patterns from well-known makers like Wallace or Tiffany & Co. are especially sought after by collectors.
Even silver-plated sets can hold some value, especially if they have unique designs or come from reputable brands. It’s worth taking a closer look at your drawer before you decide what to keep or donate.
Pyrex Mixing Bowls
You might have a set of Pyrex mixing bowls quietly sitting in your cabinet. These bowls are not only practical but can also be collectible, especially vintage sets like Butterprint or Golden Sunflower.
If your bowls have unique patterns or colors, they could be worth something. Look for nesting sets or rare designs, as these tend to attract collectors.
Even simple clear glass Pyrex bowls can be valuable depending on their size and condition. Keep an eye on any markings on the bottom for more clues.
Green Depression Glass Dessert Plates
You might find green Depression glass dessert plates tucked away in your cabinet. These plates were popular in the 1930s and often have a lovely, translucent green color.
Some patterns, like the Cameo Ballerina, add a touch of vintage charm. The glass sometimes contains uranium, giving it a slight glow under UV light.
If you spot these plates, they could be a small treasure from the past sitting in your home.
Transferware Dishware
If you have transferware dishes tucked away, they might be worth taking a closer look at. These pieces usually feature detailed patterns, often in blue or red, created by transferring ink from an engraved plate to the ceramic.
You might find serving dishes, plates, or bowls with charming scenes or floral designs. Some antique transferware can fetch a good price, especially if the pattern is rare or the item is in good condition. Keep an eye out for chips or cracks, as these affect value.
