Flipping collectibles on eBay can be a fun and profitable side hustle if you know what to look for. You don’t need to be a hardcore collector or an expert in a particular field to get started.
With a bit of research and patience, you can find items that are undervalued and resell them for a profit. The key is to know what sells well, how to price items correctly, and how to create compelling listings that attract buyers.
Let’s dive into some of the collectibles that are easy to flip on eBay.
1. Vintage Video Games
Vintage video games, particularly those from the 80s and 90s, can fetch a pretty penny on eBay. Look out for games from popular systems like the NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis.
You’ll want to pay special attention to games that are still in their original packaging or come with their instruction manuals. These can significantly increase the value. Classic titles from series like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Sonic the Hedgehog are always in high demand.
2. Retro Action Figures
Retro action figures, especially those from popular franchises like Star Wars, Transformers, and G.I. Joe can be very lucrative.
Figures that are still in their original packaging and in good condition can sell for hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Don’t fret if you come across loose figures, though. Even without the packaging, some figures can still be worth quite a bit, especially if they’re rare or hard to find.
3. Antique Books
If you enjoy browsing through old books at yard sales or thrift stores, you might be able to turn that hobby into a profit. First editions, signed copies, and books with beautiful illustrations or bindings can be highly sought after.
A good resource for researching book values is Google Books.
4. Rare Vinyl Records
With the resurgence of vinyl, rare records are becoming a hot commodity. Look for records from popular artists, limited edition pressings, or records that were only released in certain countries.
As with most collectibles, condition is key, so records that are in excellent condition and have their original covers will fetch the best prices.
5. Collectible Coins
Coins are a classic collectible and can be very profitable if you know what to look for. Older coins, coins from discontinued series, and coins with mistakes or variations can all be valuable. Be sure to do your research before investing in coins, as there are many fakes and replicas out there.
6. Vintage Postcards
Vintage postcards can be a lucrative collectible, especially those with unique or historical images. Look for postcards from the early 20th century, especially those with real photographs or interesting subjects. Postcards that have been mailed and have interesting or historical postmarks can also be valuable.
7. First Edition Comic Books
First edition comic books, especially those featuring the first appearance of a popular character, can be worth quite a bit of money. Look for comics from popular series like Batman, Spider-Man, and X-Men. As with most collectibles, condition is key, so comics that are in excellent condition and have been well preserved will fetch the best prices.
8. Autographed Memorabilia
Autographed memorabilia from celebrities, athletes, or other notable individuals can be highly sought after. This can include everything from signed photos to musical instruments to sports equipment. Be careful, though, as there are many fakes out there. It’s best to buy items that come with a certificate of authenticity from a reputable source.
9. Limited Edition Art Prints
Limited edition art prints can be a great investment. Look for prints from well-known artists, especially those that are hand-signed and numbered. Keep in mind that not all prints are created equal. The value of a print can vary widely based on the artist, the edition size, the condition of the print, and other factors.
10. Out-of-Print Board Games
Board games that are no longer in production can be very valuable, especially if they’re in good condition and come with all their original pieces. Look for games that were popular during their time, have a cult following, or are known for their complex gameplay. Specialty game stores, garage sales, and thrift shops can be great sources for finding these games.
11. Sports Trading Cards
While the market for sports trading cards has had its ups and downs, there’s still money to be made if you know what to look for. Cards featuring popular players, rookie cards, and cards in mint condition can all be valuable. Be sure to do your research and stay up to date with the market to know what’s hot. Reddit’s eBay Sellers community can be a great resource for this.
12. Vintage Advertising Signs
Vintage advertising signs, especially those made of metal or porcelain, can be very collectible. Signs from popular brands, especially those that are no longer in existence, can be highly sought after. As with most collectibles, condition is key. Signs that are in excellent condition and have vibrant, un-faded colors will fetch the best prices.
Flipping collectibles on eBay can be a fun and profitable venture if you know what to look for. It’s all about finding the right items, knowing their value, and presenting them in a way that attracts buyers. With a bit of research, patience, and luck, you can turn your love of collectibles into a profitable side hustle. Happy hunting!