Grandmas are known for their wisdom, love, and often, their knack for saving just about everything. From treasured family heirlooms to seemingly mundane household items, these keepsakes can hold a surprising amount of monetary value. In this post, we’ll explore 14 classic pieces that your grandma might have saved, which today could be worth a small fortune.
1. Antique Furniture
Antique furniture, especially those pieces that have been well-maintained, can fetch a pretty penny nowadays. A solid wood, early 20th-century armoire or a set of dining chairs can be worth thousands of dollars. Keep in mind that the value of antique furniture greatly depends on its condition, rarity, and the demand for items of its kind.
2. Vintage Jewelry
Grandma’s collection of brooches, necklaces, and earrings might seem outdated, but vintage jewelry has a charm that never goes out of style. If the items are made of gold, silver, or embedded with precious stones, their value could be considerable. Even costume jewelry from certain periods can be quite valuable.
3. Old Coins
If your grandma was a coin collector, you might be sitting on a gold mine. Some of the most valuable coins are those that had a limited release or contain errors. Even coins from certain years can be worth more than their face value due to their metal content.
4. Classic Books
First editions of classic books can be worth a lot of money. If your grandma had a passion for literature and kept her books in good condition, it’s worth checking the publication dates. A first edition of a classic novel, especially with a dust jacket, could be a hidden treasure.
5. Vintage Postcards
The hobby of collecting postcards, or “deltiology”, is one of the most popular collecting hobbies in the world. If your grandma saved postcards from her travels or correspondence, they could be worth more than just sentimental value. Early 20th-century or holiday-themed postcards are especially sought after.
6. Porcelain Dolls
Porcelain dolls are a common item that grandmothers tend to save. While not all porcelain dolls are valuable, those made by well-known manufacturers or from certain time periods can be worth a surprising amount.
7. Antique Silverware
If your grandma saved her silverware, it might be worth more than just its weight in silver. Antique silverware sets, especially those that are complete and in good condition, can be quite valuable.
8. Quilts
Handmade quilts, especially those made in the 19th or early 20th century, can be worth a lot of money. Quilts with intricate patterns and those in excellent condition are especially valuable.
9. Artwork
Artwork is always a bit of a gamble when it comes to value, but it’s possible that a painting or sculpture your grandma saved could be worth a lot. Even prints by notable artists could have a considerable value.
10. Vinyl Records
If your grandma was a music lover and saved her vinyl records, you might have a valuable collection on your hands. Records by popular artists or rare pressings can be worth a lot of money.
11. Vintage Clothing
Vintage clothing, especially designer pieces or garments from notable fashion eras, can be quite valuable. Even vintage accessories like hats, scarves, and handbags can be worth a considerable amount.
12. Old Photographs
Old photographs can be worth money, especially if they depict notable people or events. Even if they’re just family photos, they can still hold a surprising amount of value if they’re from a certain era or in excellent condition.
13. Stamp Collection
Stamp collecting was a popular hobby in the past, and if your grandma was a philatelist, her collection could be worth a lot. Stamps from certain periods or countries, or those with errors, are particularly valuable.
14. Glassware and China
Last, but definitely not least, is glassware and china. Full sets of vintage or antique china can be worth quite a bit. Even individual pieces of glassware can be valuable, especially those from notable manufacturers or periods.
Remember, it’s not just about the monetary value of these items. Each piece also carries a part of your family’s history and your grandma’s story. So, next time you visit your grandma’s attic or basement, keep an eye out for these hidden treasures. You never know what you might find!