Ever thought about the treasure that might be hiding in your attic? Those old decorations you’ve been meaning to throw away could be worth more than you realize. The world of antique collecting is full of surprises, and if you know what to look for, you could discover a valuable heirloom right under your nose.
Why should you care? Well, understanding the value of what you have could mean the difference between tossing out a fortune and cashing in on it. So, let’s explore 15 old decorations that sell for surprising prices.
1. Vintage Christmas Ornaments
Those old Christmas ornaments you inherited from your grandparents could be worth a small fortune. Ornaments made from mercury glass, particularly those produced pre-World War II, can fetch up to $1,500 each at auction. The key is to look for intricate designs and good condition.
2. Antique Clocks
Antique clocks, particularly those with unique designs or from renowned makers, can command high prices. A well-preserved vintage mantel or grandfather clock can sell for thousands of dollars. Check for maker’s marks to help determine their value.
3. Vintage Costume Jewelry
Don’t disregard old costume jewelry. Designer pieces from the mid-20th century, particularly those from names like Trifari, Eisenberg, and Weiss, can fetch high prices. Even unsigned pieces can be valuable if they have unique designs or high-quality craftsmanship.
4. Old Coca Cola Items
From vintage metal signs to old glass bottles, Coca Cola memorabilia is highly collectible. Depending on the condition and rarity, some items can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
5. Antique Lamps
Not all old lamps are valuable, but those from famous makers like Tiffany or Handel can be worth a lot. Look for unique designs, original parts, and good condition to get the best price.
6. Vintage Postcards
Believe it or not, some old postcards can be quite valuable. Look for cards from the ‘golden age’ of postcards (1907 to 1915), or those featuring unique or historical images. Some can sell for hundreds of dollars apiece.
7. Old Comic Books
Comic books aren’t just for kids. Vintage issues, especially first editions or key storylines of popular series like Spider-Man or Batman, can fetch a high price. Some rare issues have sold for millions!
8. Antique Silverware
Don’t overlook old silverware. Antique flatware, especially complete sets from famous makers or in rare patterns, can be quite valuable. Sterling silver is almost always worth selling.
9. Vintage Vinyl Records
Old vinyl records can be surprisingly valuable, especially if they’re in good condition. Look for first pressings, rare albums, or records from iconic artists like The Beatles or Elvis Presley.
10. Antique Quilts
Handmade quilts from the 19th and early 20th centuries can be worth a lot of money, especially if they’re in good condition. Look for intricate designs, quality materials, and a well-documented history.
11. Old Photographs
Antique photos, particularly those from the 19th century or early 20th century, can fetch a good price. Look for images of historical events, famous people, or unusual subjects to get the best value.
12. Antique Furniture
Furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, especially pieces in good condition with original finishes, can be very valuable. Look for maker’s marks or labels to help determine their value.
13. Vintage Dolls
Old dolls, particularly those from makers like Madame Alexander or American Girl, can be worth a lot. Look for dolls in good condition, with original clothing and accessories, to get the best price.
14. Antique Books
Old books, especially first editions or copies signed by the author, can be quite valuable. Look for books in good condition, with a dust jacket if possible, to get the best price.
15. Vintage Toys
Old toys, especially those still in their original packaging, can fetch a surprising price. Look for popular toys from the 80s and 90s, like Transformers or Star Wars figures, to potentially make a profit.
So, before you clean out your attic or garage, take a moment to examine what you’ve got. You might just find that your old decorations are worth much more than you thought. Happy treasure hunting!