Antiques often come with histories that can surprise even the most seasoned collectors. Many items that once seemed completely worthless have gained significant value over time, transforming them into treasured finds.
You might be surprised to learn just how many antiques were deemed useless but are now worth a small fortune.
1. Barbie Dolls (First Edition)
The first edition Barbie doll, released in 1959, started as a simple toy. You might find it surprising that this doll has now become a highly sought-after collectible.
In mint condition, these original Barbies can sell for thousands of dollars. For instance, one was auctioned for around $27,450.
Collecting these dolls has gained popularity over the years. Your vintage Barbie could be one of those hidden treasures.
2. Vintage Pyrex Dishes
Vintage Pyrex dishes have become highly sought after by collectors. Once seen as ordinary kitchenware, these colorful glass dishes now command impressive prices.
Their unique patterns and vibrant hues from the mid-20th century, like the classic “Blue Snowflake” and “Butterfly Gold,” make them attractive to many.
Even everyday items, such as mixing bowls and casserole dishes, are now considered valuable collectibles. It’s fascinating how something once deemed common can become a treasured piece in your kitchen.
3. Norman Rockwell Plates
Norman Rockwell plates were once marketed as limited-edition collectibles. In the 1970s and 1980s, many people believed these items would appreciate in value.
Initially, they were sought after by collectors and often sold for decent prices. However, the market became saturated, causing values to drop significantly.
Today, some plates that once sold for $50 to $75 might only fetch around $10. Despite this, certain limited editions still maintain a notable value, especially if they come with certificates of authenticity.
You might find it interesting to explore which specific plates are worth more by checking resources that focus on their market values.
4. Model Train Sets
Model train sets were once seen as simple toys for children. Many people believed they had little value beyond the joy they brought during playtime.
However, collectors now recognize that certain models can be quite valuable. Limited edition sets, especially from renowned manufacturers like Lionel, have fetched impressive prices at auctions.
If you have an old model train set tucked away, it might be worth checking its value. You may be surprised to discover that what was once dismissed as a child’s plaything could now be a prized collector’s item.
5. Vintage Comics
Vintage comics have become valuable collectibles over the years. Items once deemed trivial now fetch impressive sums at auctions.
Many collectors are drawn to rare editions, especially those featuring first appearances of iconic characters. Comics from the Golden Age, like Action Comics #1, can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
If you have old comics tucked away, now might be a good time to check their value. What was once considered just entertainment can now be a surprising asset in your collection.
6. Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Mid-Century Modern furniture has experienced a renaissance in the collecting world. You might find pieces from this era at estate sales or auctions, often sought after for their clean lines and functional design.
This style, popular from the 1940s to the 1960s, includes iconic designs by names like Charles and Ray Eames. Your living space can feel instantly updated with just one well-chosen piece.
These items aren’t just decorative; they represent a significant design movement. Investing in Mid-Century Modern furniture could be a rewarding experience both for your home and your collection.
7. Carlo Scarpa’s Pennellate Vases
/Ebay.
Carlo Scarpa’s Pennellate vases are remarkable examples of mid-20th-century design. Created in the 1940s, these vases showcase innovative techniques in glassblowing.
You might find them appealing due to their unique application of colored glass. The embedded swirls resemble brushstrokes, which is actually reflected in the name “Pennellate,” meaning brushstroke in Italian.
These vases were once overlooked but have gained significant recognition over time. They’ve sold at auction for amounts exceeding $100,000, demonstrating their artistic value and desirability in the collectible market.
8. Antique Medicine Bottles
Antique medicine bottles have a unique charm that appeals to collectors. Once considered everyday items, they now hold significant value.
These glass containers date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. They were used to store various medicines, from simple herbal remedies to more exotic concoctions.
The designs can be quite intricate, with many featuring embossed labels that tell a story. Some collectors seek out antique medicine bottles for their artistic appeal as well as historical significance.
As you explore this fascinating field, you might find that certain bottles can fetch impressive prices at auctions.
9. Ancient Roman Busts
Imagine finding an ancient Roman bust at a thrift store for just $35. That’s exactly what happened to Laura Young in Texas. This remarkable piece dates back to the late first century B.C. to early first century A.D.
These busts were once common but are now rare treasures. Originally crafted to honor notable figures, they embody artistry from a time long past. The bust that Young discovered belonged to a German museum and had been missing for years.
Such busts have become priceless, treasured by collectors and museums alike. You never know what hidden gems might be waiting for you at a local shop.
10. Soviet Crystal Glassware
/Ebay.
Soviet crystal glassware was once a staple in many households across the USSR. Known for its intricate designs and craftsmanship, it often served as a decorative piece rather than for daily use.
Today, this vintage glassware has become highly sought after by collectors. You might find that pieces like vases, glasses, and trays are now valued for their historical significance.
If you come across Soviet crystal in a thrift store or at a garage sale, it could be worth more than you think. The beauty and nostalgia attached to these items make them appealing to many.
