Plastic bowls, pitchers, and storage containers might not sound like treasures, but for collectors, vintage Tupperware has become surprisingly valuable. What started in the 1950s and 1960s as colorful, durable kitchenware now carries both nostalgic charm and a strong resale market.
From pastel-hued canisters to rare party pieces, certain Tupperware items are fetching prices that would have once seemed unthinkable for simple plastic. If you’ve got a few pieces tucked away in your cupboards—or inherited a stash from a relative—you may be sitting on more than just storage solutions. Here are 15 vintage Tupperware finds that could be worth far more than you think.
1. 1950s Millionaire Line
The Millionaire Line, launched in the 1950s, was one of the first Tupperware collections to feature color. These containers came in a variety of sizes and were adorned with a distinctive design, making them a popular choice for consumers. Today, they are sought after by vintage collectors and individuals interested in mid-century decor. Many people overlook them due to their simplicity, but their rarity and condition can make them worth a significant amount.
These vintage Tupperware pieces are gaining attention in the collector’s market, due to the increasing interest in the mid-century aesthetic. According to Collectors Weekly, they can fetch a higher price than modern Tupperware sets depending on their condition and rarity. If you have one of these lying around in your kitchen, it might be time to consider its value.
2. Tupperware Wonderlier Bowl Set
The Tupperware Wonderlier Bowl Set, first produced in the 1960s, is a collection of nesting bowls known for their durability and convenience. These bowls, with their iconic pastel colors, were a revolutionary kitchenware that quickly became a staple in many homes. Although they are often overlooked due to their commonplace nature, they have become a desirable item for collectors due to their nostalgia-inducing design and practicality.
The popularity of the Wonderlier Bowl Set has surged recently, partly due to the resurgence of vintage aesthetics and the increasing interest in sustainable kitchenware. Tupperware has promoted it as the brand’s best-selling bowl set since 1946, and lifestyle marketplaces like Poshmark continue to embrace its nostalgic design appeal.
3. Tupperware Cake Taker
The Tupperware Cake Taker, introduced in the 1970s, is a unique piece that was designed to transport cakes and other baked goods. With its distinctive round shape and convenient handle, it quickly became a must-have item for bakers and hosts. Despite its practicality, many people overlook the Cake Taker, unaware of its potential value in the vintage market.
Now, these Cake Takers are finding new appreciation among vintage collectors and baking enthusiasts. As eBay listings show, well-maintained vintage Tupperware Cake Takers can command impressive prices, especially for rare colors or versions. If you own one of these, it might be worth more than just a cake carrier.
4. Tupperware Salt and Pepper Shakers
Tupperware Salt and Pepper Shakers, with their iconic hourglass design, were a common sight in kitchens during the 1970s and ’80s. These simple yet stylish shakers were not only practical but also added a touch of elegance to any dining table. Many people undervalue these everyday items, not realizing their potential worth in the vintage market.
The interest in these Tupperware shakers has surged recently, as more collectors recognize their nostalgic charm and functional design. According to Finance Buzz, these vintage pieces can fetch a handsome price depending on their condition and rarity. They serve as a reminder that even common household items can become valuable collectibles over time.
5. Tupperware Jel-N-Serve
The Tupperware Jel-N-Serve, a classic jello mold from the 1980s, is a reminder of the era when jello salads were a staple at family gatherings. This item, with its unique design and clear lid, is often overlooked by people who see it as a dated kitchen utensil. However, its nostalgic appeal makes it a desirable item for collectors and vintage enthusiasts.
As Retro and Design notes, vintage Tupperware pieces like the Jel-N-Serve are becoming increasingly popular among collectors. Their value lies in their connection to a bygone era, making them more than just plastic containers. If you own a Jel-N-Serve, it might be time to reevaluate its worth.
6. Tupperware Servalier Canisters
Tupperware Servalier Canisters, recognizable for their “burp” sealing lids, were a staple in many kitchens during the 1960s and ’70s. These containers were praised for their ability to keep food fresh for extended periods, but many people undervalue these items today, seeing them as outdated kitchenware. However, their vintage appeal and practicality make them desirable for collectors.
According to Etsy, these vintage canisters can fetch a good price in the market, particularly if they are in good condition and part of a complete set. The rise in popularity of sustainable and reusable kitchenware has also increased their demand, making them worth more than you might think.
7. Tupperware Pie Taker
The Tupperware Pie Taker, introduced in the 1980s, is a unique item designed to transport pies. The round container with a built-in handle was a revolutionary product at the time. Many people overlook the Pie Taker today, viewing it as a novelty item and not realizing its potential value.
However, as Etsy searches point out, the Pie Taker has become a sought-after collectible due to its nostalgic appeal and practical design. The increasing interest in vintage Tupperware and the scarcity of well-preserved Pie Takers have driven up their value, making them worth more than one might expect.
8. Tupperware Ultra 21 Cookware
Tupperware’s Ultra 21 Cookware was a groundbreaking line introduced in the 1980s, known for its ability to be used in the oven, microwave, and freezer. These versatile pieces were praised for their innovative design, but are often overlooked today due to the influx of modern cookware. However, their durability and unique design make them a desirable item for collectors and vintage enthusiasts.
As Love to Know on Yahoo notes, vintage Tupperware like the Ultra 21 Cookware is gaining recognition in the market due to their retro appeal and functional design. Despite being decades old, they can command impressive prices if kept in good condition, proving that their value extends beyond their practical uses.
9. Tupperware Beverage Buddy
The Tupperware Beverage Buddy, a portable drink container from the 1970s, is a nostalgic piece that many overlook due to its common use. Known for its easy-pour spout and sturdy handle, it was a revolutionary product that quickly became a household staple. Despite being a common item, its vintage charm and practicality make it a desirable piece for collectors.
According to Antique Trader, vintage Tupperware like the Beverage Buddy is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with well-preserved pieces fetching surprisingly high prices. The trend towards sustainable and reusable kitchenware has also increased its demand, making it a potentially valuable piece in the vintage market.
10. Tupperware Ice Cream Scoop
The Tupperware Ice Cream Scoop, with its distinctive teal color and ergonomic design, was a popular item in the 1990s. Despite being a simple kitchen utensil, many overlook its potential worth. Its retro appeal and practical design, however, make it a desirable item for collectors and vintage enthusiasts.
As Work + Money points out, vintage Tupperware pieces, even something as simple as an ice cream scoop, can command high prices in the collector’s market. The increasing interest in 90s nostalgia and the scarcity of well-preserved pieces have driven up their value, proving that even the most ordinary kitchen utensils can be worth more than you think.
