Estate sales can be a veritable treasure trove for those who know what to look for. It’s not all about antique furniture or vintage jewelry – some surprising everyday items can prove to be unexpectedly valuable.
This list is compiled based on real world trends, data, and research from various online auction and sales platforms, as well as insights from antique and collectible experts.
Whether you’re a seasoned treasure hunter or a casual shopper, these 12 estate sale items could turn out to be hidden goldmines.
1. Vintage Electronics
Vintage electronics, especially if they’re in working condition, can fetch a good price. Classic video game consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System or the original Atari can be worth hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to collectors. The same goes for vintage Apple computers, or even older television sets.
Similarly, vintage audio equipment like vinyl record players, amplifiers, and speakers can also be highly sought after by audiophiles and collectors. Brands like McIntosh, Marantz, and Technics are particularly desirable. However, it’s important to check the condition of these items as repair or restoration can significantly reduce their value.
2. First Edition Books
First edition books, especially those from famous authors or rare titles, can be highly valuable. A first edition copy of the Harry Potter series, for example, recently sold for over $50,000. It’s important to note that not all first editions are valuable – the book must be desirable to collectors, and condition is crucial.
Look for first edition marks, usually found on the copyright page. These can take the form of a number line, a stated “First Edition,” or specific publisher’s codes. Always handle old books gently to avoid damaging them, and consider getting valuable books professionally appraised.
3. Vintage Pyrex
Vintage Pyrex, especially rare patterns or colors, can be worth a surprising amount. The most valuable Pyrex dishes are usually from the 1950s and 1960s. Some rare patterns, like the “Lucky in Love” design, can sell for over $4,000.
When searching for vintage Pyrex, look for dishes with clear, bright patterns and minimal wear. Pyrex dishes with their original lids are often more valuable than those without. It’s also worth remembering that not all old Pyrex is valuable – common patterns and colors, or dishes in poor condition, may not be worth much.
4. Postage Stamps
Postage stamps, especially rare or historically significant ones, can be incredibly valuable. The most expensive stamp ever sold, the British Guiana 1c Magenta, fetched an astounding $9.5 million at auction.
It’s not just ultra-rare stamps that can be worth money, though. Older stamps, particularly those in good condition or with rare errors, can still be quite valuable. Stamp collecting (or philately, as it’s officially known) is a popular hobby, and there’s a robust market for stamps of all types.
5. Vintage Board Games
Vintage board games, particularly those that are still sealed or in excellent condition, can be worth quite a bit of money. A sealed copy of the 1970s game “Dark Tower,” for example, sold for over $900 on eBay.
Even if they’re not sealed, vintage games can still be valuable, particularly if they’re in good condition and have all their pieces. Keep an eye out for games from the 1960s and 1970s, as well as games based on popular movies or TV shows.
6. Antique Tools
Antique tools, especially those that are rare or in excellent condition, can be highly valuable. Some collectors pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars for rare saws, planes, and other woodworking tools.
It’s not just woodworking tools that can be valuable, though. Old farming tools, automotive tools, and even kitchen tools can be worth money. As with most collectibles, condition is key – tools with their original handles, paint, or other features are usually worth more than those that have been restored or modified.
7. Vintage Toys
Vintage toys, especially those that are still in their original packaging, can be highly valuable. For example, original Star Wars action figures from the 1970s and 1980s can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars each.
Even if they’re not in their original packaging, vintage toys can still be valuable. Look for toys that are in good condition, especially those that are still working. Remember, though, that not all old toys are valuable – condition, rarity, and demand all play a role in determining value.
8. Vintage Postcards
Vintage postcards, especially those with rare images or postmarks, can be surprisingly valuable. Some rare postcards can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
When looking at postcards, pay attention to the images, the condition, and the postmark. Cards with unique or historical images, especially those in excellent condition, are usually the most valuable. Also, cards that were mailed from unusual or historic locations can be particularly valuable.
9. Old Maps
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Old maps, especially those that are hand-drawn or represent significant historical events, can be incredibly valuable. Some rare maps can sell for tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Even if they’re not rare, old maps can still be valuable. Look for maps that are in good condition, especially those with bright, clear colors. As with most collectibles, condition is key – maps that are torn, faded, or otherwise damaged are usually worth less than those in excellent condition.
10. Antique Glassware
Antique glassware, especially pieces from well-known manufacturers or in rare colors or patterns, can be quite valuable. Some rare pieces of carnival glass, for example, can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
When looking at glassware, pay attention to the color, the pattern, and the condition. Pieces in rare colors or patterns, especially those in excellent condition, are usually the most valuable. Also, pieces from well-known manufacturers like Fenton, Northwood, and Imperial are often more valuable than those from lesser-known makers.
11. Antique Silverware
Antique silverware, especially pieces made from sterling silver or from well-known manufacturers, can be surprisingly valuable. Some sterling silver flatware sets, for example, can sell for thousands of dollars.
When looking at silverware, pay attention to the hallmarks, as these can tell you a lot about the piece. Look for hallmarks that indicate the piece is made from sterling silver (925, Sterling, or a lion passant), as these are usually more valuable than silver-plated pieces. Also, pieces from well-known manufacturers or designers are often more valuable than those from lesser-known makers.
12. Old Photographs
Old photographs, especially those that are historically significant or feature well-known individuals, can be incredibly valuable. Some rare photographs can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Even if they’re not historically significant or feature well-known individuals, old photographs can still be valuable. Look for photographs that are in good condition, especially those with clear, sharp images. As with most collectibles, condition is key – photographs that are faded, torn, or otherwise damaged are usually worth less than those in excellent condition.