Many items that once belonged to your grandparents can hold surprising value today. What seemed like ordinary household objects might actually be collectibles or antiques sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Knowing which familiar things from your grandparents’ home could be worth money helps you appreciate their history and potential worth. This article will guide you through some common treasures you might find tucked away in your family’s past.
Vintage Vinyl Records
If your grandparents had a collection of vinyl records, some of those albums might be worth more than you expect. Certain rare records, like early Beatles or Prince albums, can fetch high prices.
Not all vinyl is valuable, though. Most common records are easy to find and usually worth just a few dollars.
Still, if you find original or limited editions in good condition, it’s worth checking their value. Your vintage vinyl could be a hidden treasure.
Majolica Pottery
If you find colorful pottery with glossy glazes in your grandparents’ house, it might be Majolica. This style is known for its bright colors and nature-inspired designs like flowers and animals.
Majolica pottery was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Well-made pieces, especially signed or dated ones, can have value today.
You don’t need to be an expert to spot it—look for vibrant colors and a shiny, almost glass-like surface on the ceramics.
Porcelain Figurines
If you find porcelain figurines in your grandparents’ collection, they might be worth looking into. Some figurines, especially those marked or limited edition, can have value depending on their condition and rarity.
Not all figurines increase in value, though. Mass-produced ones often don’t hold much worth but can still be charming keepsakes. Check for any maker’s marks or labels to help identify pieces that might be valuable.
McCoy Pottery
If your grandparents have McCoy Pottery, you might be sitting on something valuable. This pottery started as a family business in Ohio in 1899 and became popular for its unique designs.
Collectors especially love McCoy cookie jars and novelty items. Some pieces have sold for thousands, but many common items are worth a few hundred dollars. Check for well-known shapes or rare patterns to get an idea of value.
Antique Perfume Bottles
You might be surprised at how valuable old perfume bottles can be. Many were beautifully crafted and reflect the design styles of their time, like Art Deco or Art Nouveau.
Some vintage bottles can sell for thousands of dollars, especially if they are rare or made by famous designers. Even small details, like ornate shapes or unique materials, add to their charm and value.
If you find any in your grandparents’ collection, it’s worth checking their condition and history. They could be a hidden treasure.
Porcelain Dolls
If your grandparents owned porcelain dolls, they might be more valuable than you think. Antique dolls, especially from the 19th century, can be worth a good amount, depending on their condition and origin.
Not all dolls hold value, but some vintage or artist-made ones could be collectible. Even sets from decades ago sometimes attract interest from collectors. Take a close look at any tags or markings to help identify their worth.
Silver Flatware Sets
If you have a silver flatware set from your grandparents, it could be worth more than you think. Sterling silver pieces are especially valuable, often lasting over 80 years or more.
You might find a mix of forks, spoons, knives, and serving utensils in a complete set. Checking if it’s sterling or silver-plated is important, as sterling usually has higher value.
Weighing your set can help estimate its basic silver value, but some pieces may have added worth due to design or brand. A professional appraisal can give you a clearer idea.
Rare Coins
If your grandparents kept old coins, you might have something valuable. Coins like the Capped Bust Dime or certain Kennedy halves can be worth more than their face value.
Look for rare minting years or special features, such as doubled dies or unusual metals. Even some pennies from the mid-1900s can surprise you with their worth.
It’s a good idea to have the coins appraised if you think they might be special. You never know what treasures are hiding in that collection!
Vintage Holiday Decorations
If you have vintage holiday decorations from your grandparents, they might be more valuable than you think. Items like ceramic or flocked Santas and antique holiday ornaments are sought after by collectors.
Even holiday-themed books and old Christmas photos can add value to your collection. These pieces bring both charm and potential worth, especially if they’re in good condition. Keep an eye out for unique designs or well-known makers like the Rushton Company.
Midcentury Cookware
You might find valuable pieces from the mid-20th century in your grandparents’ kitchen. Brands like Pyrex, CorningWare, and Fire-King made durable and collectible cookware during that time.
Look for colorful mixing bowls and patterned dishes, which are especially popular. Even antique copper pots and sterling silver dinnerware can hold value if cared for well.
Decorative Oyster Plates
You might find decorative oyster plates among your grandparents’ dishware. These plates were common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Oyster plates usually have small wells to hold individual oysters. Many are hand-painted or made from fine porcelain, which can add to their value.
If you come across a set, check for maker marks or unique designs. These details help determine how valuable your plates might be today.
Folk Art Pieces
You might find folk art pieces in your grandparents’ home that hold more value than you expect. These handmade items often have a unique charm because they capture a personal, crafted touch.
Look for signs like signatures or dates on the artwork, as these can increase their worth. Even simple paintings or carvings can be collectible if they have a story or origin. Keep an eye out—these pieces are small treasures!
