Many items you grew up with in your parents’ home may have gained unexpected value over time. Things that seemed ordinary or sentimental could now be worth more than you realize.
Understanding which belongings have increased in value can help you uncover hidden treasures in your family’s collection. This guide will help you recognize those valuable items and consider what they might be worth today.
Pyrex Dishes
If you have Pyrex dishes from your parents, they might be worth more than you think. Many vintage Pyrex bowls and baking dishes are collectible and can sell for hundreds of dollars.
Look closely at the patterns and colors since some designs are rarer than others. Even simple, sturdy pieces can attract buyers, especially if they’re in good condition.
Keep an eye out for the 9×13-inch baking dishes, which are popular with both collectors and home cooks. Your Pyrex could be a valuable find in disguise.
Mid-Century Modern Furniture
If you have mid-century modern furniture from your parents’ home, it could be worth more than you think. Pieces by designers like Eames, Noguchi, and Saarinen are especially valuable.
Even if your furniture isn’t by a famous name, mid-century modern styles remain popular. Clean lines, functional design, and timeless appeal make these pieces sought after by collectors and decorators alike.
Take a close look at the condition and authenticity of your items. Well-kept originals usually attract higher prices.
Vinyl Record Collections
If you inherited your parents’ vinyl records, you might have a small treasure. Some albums, especially rare or limited editions, have gained value over time.
Even if the records aren’t super rare, the nostalgic appeal makes them valuable to many collectors.
Take a moment to check the condition and titles. You could find a few gems worth more than you expect.
Vintage Kitchenware
You might have vintage kitchen items tucked away that are worth more than you think. Things like Pyrex mixing bowls and CorningWare dishes have become collectible.
Even everyday items such as Mason jars, coffee mills, and antique toasters can hold value. These pieces often carry both nostalgia and craftsmanship that collectors appreciate.
Check your parents’ kitchen for these gems before tossing or donating them. They could surprise you at a vintage sale or auction.
Depression Glass Plates
If you have Depression glass plates from your parents, you might be sitting on something valuable. These colorful glass pieces were made during the 1920s and 1930s and are popular among collectors today.
Pink is one of the most sought-after colors, and plates around 13 inches can attract attention. The value depends on the pattern and condition, but some pieces sell for tens of dollars or more. Keep an eye out for any unique designs on your family’s shelves.
Old Rotary Phones
You might be surprised to learn that old rotary phones from your parents’ home can have value today. These phones blend vintage charm with a simple, nostalgic design that many people collect.
Some models still work on modern landlines, offering clear sound quality. Whether you keep them for decoration or consider selling, these phones have become unique, desirable items.
Revere Ware Pots and Pans
If you have Revere Ware cookware from your parents, you might already own something valuable. These pots and pans are known for their durability and classic design.
Many people have kept their sets for decades, and they often still work well. Vintage pieces can be collectible, especially those made before the late 1960s.
Using or selling these items can connect you to a practical piece of kitchen history. Keep an eye out for copper-clad bottoms and stainless steel marks to identify authentic pieces.
Typewriters
You might have an old typewriter tucked away that’s worth more than you think. Models like the Smith-Corona Sterling are popular with collectors because of their sturdy build and classic look.
If you’re curious about your typewriter’s value, sharing pictures with online collector groups can give you a good estimate. Some vintage typewriters have become sought-after collectibles over the years.
Beanie Babies
You might still have some Beanie Babies from your childhood that are worth more than you think. While not all are valuable, certain rare ones like Ty Princess or Ty Kuku can fetch higher prices.
Look for Beanie Babies with tag errors or unique features, as these usually attract collectors. Checking recent sales can help you understand the current market value before you decide to sell.
Jadeite Kitchenware
If you find Jadeite kitchenware in your parents’ home, it could be more valuable than you think. This milky green glass was popular in the 1940s and has a nostalgic charm that collectors love.
Dinner plates, serving platters, and salt and pepper shakers are common pieces you might come across. Prices can vary, but many items sell for reasonable amounts, especially if they’re in good condition.
Even small items can be worth keeping or selling, so it’s worth checking your kitchen cabinets carefully.
Texas Ware Mixing Bowls
If you find Texas Ware mixing bowls in your parents’ kitchen, they might be more valuable than you think. These colorful bowls were popular in the 1960s and come in many different shades.
Collectors look for bowls in good condition, especially those around 10 to 11 inches. Some have sold for over $60 or even $100 online.
Even if your bowl has light scratches, it can still hold value. Keep an eye out for unique colors or patterns when you look through old kitchen items.
High School Class Rings
Even if the sentimental value is what matters most to you, these rings can also be collectible items.
If you want to see how much yours could be worth, checking past sales or offers online can give you a good idea.
Engraved Silver Bracelets
You might have an engraved silver bracelet from your parents that holds more value than you realize. These bracelets often feature names, dates, or meaningful phrases, making them both personal and timeless.
Sterling silver pieces are popular and can be passed down through generations. Their sentimental value, combined with quality craftsmanship, can make them cherished keepsakes. Keep an eye on the style and condition if you ever consider their worth.