You might have everyday things from your childhood tucked away that suddenly feel more valuable than sentimental. Those forgotten lunchboxes, avocado-blenders, and retro homewares can actually fetch hundreds of dollars when collectors spot well-preserved pieces.
Flip through attics and closets with curiosity—this article shows which common ’70s items tend to sell for big money and why condition and originality matter. Keep an open mind: what seemed ordinary then could be worth a small fortune now.
Peanuts lunchbox
If you kept your Peanuts lunchbox from the ’70s, you might have a small collectible on your hands. Condition matters: dents, original Thermos, and intact graphics raise value.
You’ll find buyers who’ll pay hundreds for a mint example with Snoopy and Woodstock still bright. Check listings and compare before you sell to set a realistic price.
Avocado-colored blender
You might still have one tucked away in a cabinet or attic, and collectors pay well for pieces in good condition.
These blenders evoke 1970s style — bold color and chrome accents — so buyers seek original finishes and intact logos.
Minor chips or a replaced cord lower value, but a clean unit that works can fetch hundreds online.
Check listings for variations and compare with similar appliances like this vintage avocado green blender listing (https://www.ebay.com/itm/395932834157).
Pastel Tupperware containers
You probably remember the soft avocado, teal, and coral colors that brightened kitchen counters. These pastel Tupperware sets from the ’70s are sought after by collectors who value original colors and intact lids.
Look for nesting bowls, pitchers, and measuring cups in good condition. Rare colors and complete sets can fetch hundreds on sites like Etsy vintage Tupperware pastel listings.
Shag rugs
You probably remember the thick, tufted pile that felt like walking on a cloud.
Well-kept vintage shag rugs from the ’70s can fetch hundreds because collectors value original colors and intact fibers.
Look for authentic textures, period dyes, and minimal wear; provenance or a maker’s tag helps.
If yours still has deep pile and bold avocado or burnt orange tones, consider a professional cleaning and appraisal before listing.
Vintage Pyrex dishes
You probably have a bowl or two with bright patterns tucked away. Collectors pay high prices for rare 1950s–70s patterns like Butterfly Gold and Spring Blossom when pieces are undamaged.
Check for intact lids, no chips, and original colors; condition drives value more than age. Learn pattern names and compare listings—some individual pieces sell for hundreds, but most fetch modest sums.
If you spot matching sets or unusual promotional pieces, they command the best prices. Consider photographing markings and listing details before selling.
Bell-bottom pants
You remember the dramatic flare at the ankle that made every step feel intentional.
Original 1970s bell-bottoms—especially designer or well-preserved denim—now fetch high prices from collectors and vintage shops.
Wear and maker matter: tags, fabric, and stitching prove authenticity.
If you own a pair, photograph labels and seams before listing them for sale to show buyers what makes your piece valuable.
Retro rotary phones
You probably remember the satisfying click and the long dial turn. Vintage rotary phones now appear in décor shoots and collectors’ lists, especially in uncommon colors or working condition.
If yours still rings and has its original handset and cord, buyers will pay more. Check examples like classic models and color variants to gauge value on sites such as AOL’s list of 70s household collectibles.
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