Precious Moments Figurines

12 Keepsakes from Grandma That Turned Out Valuable

You might have some of your grandma’s keepsakes tucked away, items that hold special memories but seem ordinary at first glance. These sentimental pieces often carry more than just emotional value—they can surprisingly be worth more than you think.

Knowing which of these treasured items have real value can help you appreciate your grandma’s legacy in a new way. This article will guide you through some common keepsakes that have turned out to be unexpectedly valuable.

Hand-Painted Precious Moments Figurines

Precious Moments Figurines
Image Credit:m ToYoursWithLove/Etsy.

You might have a hand-painted Precious Moments figurine from your grandma’s collection. These delicate bisque porcelain pieces often show children or sentimental scenes.

Some of these figurines, like the “Greatest Grandma” keepsake, can be worth more than you think. Their value depends on condition and rarity. Check sites like The Hamilton Collection or marketplaces such as eBay to see what similar pieces are selling for.

Copper Pots Grandma Handed Down

Wall-mounted copper pots and pans, various sizes, vintage style, arranged on a white kitchen wall
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

You might have noticed those copper pots in your grandma’s kitchen have a special shine. Copper is a valuable metal, so these pots often hold more than just memories—they can be worth money too.

If you’ve inherited one, it’s a good idea to keep it clean and polished. These pots are not only great for cooking but also make charming decorations. Their sentimental value adds to their appeal, making them true treasures from grandma’s collection.

Vintage Midcentury China Sets

Extensive blue and white antique china set, includes plates, teacups, saucers, teapots, platters, displayed on dark table, floral and landscape designs
Image credit: Sovereign Royal Collection/eBay.

You might find that your grandma’s midcentury china sets hold more value than you expected. These sets are prized for their unique designs and quality craftsmanship from the 1950s and 60s.

If the set is complete and in good condition, it can attract interest from collectors. Look for well-known patterns or makers, as these often fetch higher prices. Even if you’re unsure about selling, keeping these pieces is a nice way to preserve family history.

Grandma’s Silver Tea Set

ornate silver tea set with teapots, sugar bowl, creamer, and detailed serving tray, reflective polished surface, elegant decor
Image credit: Mark Miller – CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons.

Your grandmother’s silver tea set holds more than memories—it can have real value. Sterling silver pieces, especially those marked with a maker’s stamp, may be worth more than their sentimental price.

If the set is silver-plated, it might not fetch a high resale value, but it still carries charm and history. Checking its markings can help you understand what you have and explore its potential worth.

Monogrammed Linen Napkins

Three rolled white linen napkins with elegant floral jacquard weave and raised white embroidered monograms, reading "D", "M", and "M"
Image credit: elegance100/eBay.

You can find real charm in monogrammed linen napkins from your grandma. These cloth pieces often carry initials stitched with care, making them unique and personal.

Using them adds a touch of elegance to your table. They also serve as keepsakes that remind you of family meals and special gatherings.

If you want something vintage and meaningful, look for natural floppy linen napkins with monograms. They make thoughtful gifts or lasting mementos you can treasure.

Gold Chain Necklace Gift

nTraditional gold jewelry set, includes a necklace, bracelet, and earrings, intricate design with red gemstone accents, displayed on a dark green fabric background
Image credit: viresh studio/Pexels.

A gold chain necklace from your grandma is more than just jewelry. It carries memories and a special connection between you two.

These necklaces are often simple but meaningful, making them easy to wear every day.

You might find that your necklace holds sentimental value that grows over time. It’s a timeless keepsake you can cherish forever, much like those shared moments.

Custom Star Map of a Special Date

Black custom star map poster with white constellation outlines, showing the night sky over Cambridge, UK on January 25
Image credit: Affiche Prints/eBay.

You can create a custom star map that captures the night sky exactly as it appeared on a date meaningful to you and your grandma. This keepsake shows the stars’ alignment from a special moment, like a birthday or anniversary.

Adding a personalized message or location makes it even more unique. It’s a thoughtful way to preserve memories in a beautiful, celestial print you both can treasure.

Antique Majolica Pottery

Colorful majolica pottery pitcher with raised floral and bird designs, dual curved handles, blue and pink glazed finish, intricate texture
Image credit: Davidmadelena – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

If you find colorful, glazed pottery in your grandma’s collection, it could be antique Majolica. This type of pottery dates back to the 19th century and often features bright, natural designs like flowers and animals.

Majolica pieces are collectible because of their unique look and history. Some can be quite valuable, especially if they are in good condition. You might want to learn more about antique Majolica pottery to see if your keepsake is worth something special.

Depression Glassware Collection

Assorted vintage glassware, pink and green tones, displayed on red-checkered shelf, mix of bowls, vases, pitchers
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

You might find delicate pieces of Depression glass in your grandma’s kitchen. These glass items, often in pastel colors like pink or green, were made during the 1920s and 1930s.

If you spot etched or patterned glassware, it could be valuable. Collectors especially look for sets with unique colors and designs. Paying attention to these details could help you recognize hidden treasure in your family’s collection.

Old Family Recipe Cards

Black and white image of handwritten recipe cards, resting on a chevron-patterned recipe binder, stove in background
Image Credit: Isaiah/Pexels.

You might have old family recipe cards passed down from grandma. These cards often hold sentimental value and can also be surprisingly collectible.

Preserving them carefully keeps your family’s cooking history alive. Some people even share or trade photos of these recipes online, creating a special community around them.

Handmade Quilted Blanket

Handmade patchwork quilt featuring a variety of vintage floral and geometric fabric patterns in warm earth tones
Image credit: Erik Mclean/Pexels.

A handmade quilted blanket from grandma carries warmth beyond fabric. You can feel the care stitched into every square, often made from old clothes or special scraps.

These blankets preserve memories and stories, making them special keepsakes. If you have one, it’s worth holding onto as a reminder of your family’s history.

You can even turn your own baby clothes or meaningful fabrics into a memory quilt, creating a cozy treasure for years to come.

Personalized Art Books from Grandma

Grandma looking at Book with grandchild
Image Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels.

You’ll find personalized art books from grandma can be both charming and meaningful. These books often feature stories and drawings from grandchildren, creating a unique keepsake.

They capture special memories and show the love between generations. A personalized book like this becomes a treasure you can revisit anytime.

If you want something special, check out options where grandparents and grandkids star together in the story, adding a personal touch to the gift.

Like what you read? Here’s more by us: