When you stumble upon old or overlooked items, it’s easy to dismiss them as just junk. However, many such pieces can hold surprising value and history that experts from Antique Roadshow would love to uncover.
This article highlights 12 overlooked items that could capture the interest of appraisers and collectors alike. By taking a closer look, you might discover treasures hiding in plain sight among your belongings.
Vintage German tin toy motorcycles
If you have a vintage German tin toy motorcycle, you might be holding a small treasure. These toys were crafted with impressive detail and often feature bright colors and moving parts.
Collectors and experts find them appealing because they reflect a mix of artistry and mechanical design. Your tin toy can offer insight into past manufacturing techniques and childhood play. Keep it safe—it’s a charming piece many on Antiques Roadshow would admire.
Early 20th-century safety razors
You might overlook early 20th-century safety razors, but they are small treasures. These pieces often feature intricate designs and durable craftsmanship.
If you have one with its original case, it could catch the eye of collectors. Safety razors from brands like Gillette show how daily grooming evolved.
They aren’t just tools; they’re a glimpse into past routines, making them interesting finds on Antiques Roadshow.
Retro Watford shop finds under £20
You can uncover some real gems in Watford’s retro shops without breaking the bank. From vintage postcards to quirky kitchenware, these places often surprise you with affordable treasures.
Keep an eye out for old vinyl records or classic toys. They add a nostalgic touch to your collection and usually come priced under £20.
Hunting for these items is a fun way to connect with the past. Plus, it’s great for finding unique gifts as well as personal keepsakes.
Original Leslie Cheekwood Estate garden items
You might find charm in garden pieces originally from the Leslie Cheekwood Estate. These items often carry the history of Nashville’s famous Cheekwood Gardens.
Your collection could include ironwork, decorative pots, or vintage garden tools. Each piece adds a touch of authenticity and garden heritage.
Having these items connects you to the elegant past of a well-known estate. They blend history with everyday beauty in your outdoor space.
Antique clocks valued over $100,000
You might be surprised how some old clocks can fetch prices well over $100,000 on Antiques Roadshow. Rare timepieces from the 18th century, like an annular dial clock, often catch expert attention.
If you find an intricately made clock with historical significance, it could be worth a small fortune. Many of these clocks come from notable makers or have unique features that collectors prize.
Your “junk” clock may be hiding much more value than you expect if it has good provenance or craftsmanship.
Rare family heirloom silverware sets
You might think old silverware is just forgotten tableware, but some sets hold real value. Family heirlooms often have unique patterns or marks that collectors and experts on shows like Antiques Roadshow seek out.
If your silverware has a maker’s mark or intricate design, it’s worth having it appraised. These sets can tell a story and sometimes fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Keep an eye out for tarnish patterns that reveal quality craftsmanship too.
Old advertising signs from the 1950s
You might be surprised how much charm old advertising signs from the 1950s hold. These signs often feature bold colors and unique designs that capture the era’s spirit.
If you find one, it can instantly transport you back in time. They were made with durable materials like porcelain or metal, which helps them stay in good shape. Your vintage sign could be a real conversation starter.
Hand-carved wooden children’s toys
You might overlook old wooden toys, but hand-carved pieces often hold special charm and history. Each toy is unique, with details showing the skill of the maker.
These toys can reflect the style and materials of their time, making them interesting additions to any collection.
When you find one, look for wear that shows it was loved and used. That wear can add to its story and value.
Mid-century costume jewelry pieces
You might overlook mid-century costume jewelry, thinking it’s just costume. But these pieces often showcase unique designs and quality craftsmanship from their era.
Collectors now seek out brooches, bracelets, and earrings made from materials like glass, enamel, and rhinestones. Your vintage finds can show creativity and style that appeals to many today.
Even if you have simple pieces, they might carry history and charm that Antiques Roadshow experts would appreciate. Keep an eye out when hunting for costume jewelry—it can be a hidden treasure.
Vintage porcelain dolls with original labels
If you have vintage porcelain dolls with their original labels intact, you’re holding something special. These dolls often attract collectors because the labels verify their age and maker.
Original labels add to the doll’s value and authenticity. They also tell a story about where and when the doll was made.
You might find these dolls tucked away in attic boxes or passed down through family. Keep an eye out for signs of careful preservation, like minimal damage and clear labels.
Classic pocket watches with engravings
You might find a pocket watch that looks old and worn, but the engraved details make it special. These watches often tell a personal story, showing initials or dates linked to family history.
Collectors at Antiques Roadshow value them for their craftsmanship and uniqueness. Even if it seems like “junk,” a well-preserved engraved pocket watch can be quite valuable to the right buyer.
Unusual antique kitchen gadgets
You might be surprised by the quirky kitchen tools that Antique Roadshow treasures. Items like butter churns, egg beaters, or old coffee grinders often look like simple junk. But their craftsmanship and history make them collectible.
If you find a gadget with a unique design or brand, keep it. These unusual pieces tell stories about how cooking has evolved over time. They add charm to any collection or kitchen display.
