You might be surprised to learn that some everyday items from the 1960s, things you probably used all the time back then, can now be worth quite a bit of money. Many of these objects have become collectible, growing in value as they’ve become rarer over the years.
If you still have some of these classic items, they could be worth a small fortune today. This article will give you a look at 15 of those common ‘60s items that might be hiding some unexpected value.
Volkswagen Vans
You probably remember these iconic vans from the ’60s. They were more than just vehicles—they were a symbol of freedom and adventure.
Today, certain models, especially those from the 1950s to 1967, can be worth tens of thousands of dollars. A well-kept VW bus in excellent condition might fetch over $100,000.
If you ever come across one, it could be a small fortune waiting for you. Check out more details on these classic vehicles here.
Pyrex Primary Color Mixing Bowls
If you grew up in the ’60s, you probably used these bright, colorful bowls every day. The Pyrex Primary Color Mixing Bowls in red, yellow, and blue are still highly sought after.
Depending on their condition, your set could be worth a few hundred dollars. Collectors love when the paint and shine are well preserved. Check out this guide on collecting vintage Pyrex to learn more about their value.
CorningWare Blue Cornflower Dishes
You might have some Blue Cornflower CorningWare dishes hiding in your kitchen. These pieces were popular in the ’50s and ’60s and are known for their simple, elegant blue floral pattern.
If you have the first edition from that era, they could be worth some money. Their durability and classic design make them collectible today. Check for markings to confirm vintage status.
Learn more about their value and history from vintage CorningWare collectors.
Fire-King Jadeite Dishes
If you grew up in the ’60s, you probably recognize Fire-King Jadeite dishes. These greenish glass plates and bowls were common in many kitchens. Today, your old Jadeite pieces can be worth a small fortune.
The key is knowing how to spot authentic pieces by their markings. Collectors look for specific stamps to date items. If you have a set, you might want to check out how to identify Fire-King Jadeite dish markings here.
Vintage Tupperware Sets
If you grew up in the ’60s, you probably remember those colorful Tupperware containers. These sets included tumblers, pitchers, bowls, and even condiment shakers.
Today, collectors look for these vintage Tupperware pieces because some rare styles can be worth a good amount of money.
If you have any old Tupperware sets, it might be worth checking their condition and style. You could find more details about valuable options on places like eBay or Facebook groups dedicated to vintage collectibles.
Sputnik Chandeliers
If you had a Sputnik chandelier in your home during the ’60s, you own a piece of iconic mid-century design. These light fixtures are known for their starburst shape with multiple arms extending from a central sphere.
You can find original 1960s Sputnik chandeliers made of brass or featuring adjustable rods for different hanging heights. They blend both modern style and vintage charm, making them popular collectibles today. A well-preserved piece could be worth considerably more now.
Explore options like the Original Brass Sputnik Chandelier, USA 1960s to see examples of classic designs.
The White Album by The Beatles (First Pressing)
If you have a first pressing of The Beatles’ White Album, you could be holding something special. A sealed copy with the original serial numbers stamped on the cover is especially valuable.
Collectors look for these details, so your album’s condition and authenticity matter a lot. Even used copies from the 1960s can be worth a nice sum if they’re well kept.
For more details on what makes a first pressing unique, check out this discussion on Quora.
Signed Yearbooks from the 60s
If you have a yearbook from the 1960s with authentic signatures, it could be quite valuable. Autographs from popular students, teachers, or even local celebrities make these books collectible.
The condition of the yearbook also matters. The better preserved yours is, the more it might be worth today.
Check for unique notes or rare signatures in your yearbook. These details can set yours apart from the rest and add to its value.
Classic Rotary Phones
If you still have a rotary phone from the ’60s, it could be worth more than you think. These phones, especially models in good working condition, often sell for between $20 and $500.
Collectors love the vintage look and durable design. Checking listings for collectible rotary phones on eBay can give you a good idea of current prices. Your old rotary might be a small treasure waiting to be discovered.
Early Vinyl Records
If you had vinyl records from the ’60s, you might be sitting on a small fortune. Rare pressings, especially test pressings or white label promos, tend to be the most valuable.
Artists like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Bob Dylan made records that collectors highly seek. Condition and rarity are key, so keeping yours in good shape matters.
You can find more details about these valuable vinyl records at this guide to the most valuable vinyl records from the 1960s.
Cast Iron Skillets from the 60s
If you have a cast iron skillet from the ’60s, you might be sitting on a valuable piece. These skillets were built to last, and many have only gotten better with age.
You can still cook with them without losing value, as proper care keeps them in great shape. Some rare sizes and types from that era are especially sought after by collectors and cooks alike.
Knowing how to identify these skillets can help you see if yours is one of the more valuable vintage finds. Learn more about identifying rare casts here.
Vintage Cocktail Shakers
If you used cocktail shakers in the ’60s, you might have a valuable piece. Vintage cocktail shakers from that era often feature unique mid-century designs.
Many collectors look for shakers made from stainless steel or decorated with colorful enamel. You can find these items on sites like eBay or Etsy, where they’re popular among vintage enthusiasts.
If your shaker is in good condition, it could be worth a small fortune. Check listings for similar items to get an idea of their value.
Concert Merchandise from Famous 60s Bands
If you kept concert merchandise from famous 60s bands, you might have a hidden treasure. Items like t-shirts, posters, and ticket stubs from bands such as The Beatles or The Rolling Stones are especially valuable now.
These pieces were made in limited runs and show the history of rock and roll. Holding onto your old band merch could mean you’ve preserved a piece of musical history worth a lot today, especially if it’s in good condition. You can learn more about valuable band merch from the 60s at this page on band merchandise worth.
First-Edition 60s Novels
If you have first-edition novels from the 1960s, you could be sitting on a small fortune. Classic books published during this decade, especially those by well-known authors, are highly collectible.
Condition matters a lot, so keep your copies safe from damage. Look for dust jackets and intact spines, as these can significantly increase value. Checking listings for modern first editions from the ’60s helps you understand their worth.
Original Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls
If you still have your original Cabbage Patch Kids doll, you might be sitting on a small fortune. These dolls, especially those still in their boxes, can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Rare versions like the Mattel Cabbage Patch dolls have been known to reach up to $6,000.
To check if your doll is valuable, look for unique editions or early models. You can learn more about their worth from detailed guides like this one on vintage Cabbage Patch dolls.
