We are all guilty of hoarding items in our drawers, thinking we may use them someday, or simply forgetting about their existence. But what if I were to tell you that these forgotten items could be worth a small fortune? It’s true! The ‘trash’ you’ve been neglecting might just be someone else’s treasure. In this post, we’ll delve into some common items that you may have lying around, which can surprisingly rake in a good sum of money. This list is compiled based on real-world trends, data, extensive research, and market demands.
1. Old Cell Phones
Did you know that your old cell phones could be worth something? According to Flipsy, some old mobile phones can fetch you hundreds of dollars.
The value of old cell phones depends on their model, condition, and rarity. For instance, the original iPhone can be sold for as much as $15,000 if it’s unopened. Even used ones can still fetch a decent sum. So before you decide to toss that old phone away, consider selling it online on platforms like eBay or Craigslist.
2. Vintage Clothing
Vintage clothing is often sought after by fashion enthusiasts, collectors, and even film production companies. As Forbes reports, sales of vintage clothing have been on the rise over the past few years.
Whether it’s your grandmother’s old wedding dress or a retro pair of jeans, these items could fetch a tidy sum. Remember, condition and rarity play a huge role in determining the value of vintage clothing. So, before discarding those old clothes, do a little research to see if they’re worth selling.
3. Old Coins and Currency
Coin collecting, or numismatics, is a hobby that can turn profitable if you have the right pieces. According to the Professional Coin Grading Services, some old coins can be worth thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and rarity.
Even old paper money can be valuable. For instance, older $2 bills can be worth more than their face value. If you’ve been keeping old coins or currency as keepsakes, you might want to have them evaluated by a professional coin dealer or auction house.
4. Vintage Toys and Action Figures
Your childhood toys could be worth more than just nostalgia. According to CNN, some Star Wars action figures from the 1970s and 1980s sell for thousands of dollars today.
However, it’s not just Star Wars toys that are valuable. Other vintage toys like Barbie dolls, Hot Wheels cars, and Lego sets can also fetch a pretty penny. So, before you decide to donate those old toys, check their value online.
5. First Edition Books
First edition books, especially those from famous authors, can be quite valuable. According to AbeBooks, some first editions can sell for thousands of dollars.
The condition of the book plays a huge role in its value. A first edition in mint condition will fetch a much higher price than a battered copy. If you have a collection of old books gathering dust, it might be worth checking if any of them are first editions.
6. Antique Furniture
Antique furniture is another item that can be surprisingly valuable. According to Antique Trader, some pieces can fetch thousands of dollars, depending on their age, condition, and rarity.
Keep in mind that not all old furniture is valuable. Pieces that are handcrafted or come from a well-known designer or manufacturer are usually worth more. So, if you have some old furniture lying around, consider having it appraised.
7. Vintage Postcards
Vintage postcards, especially those from the early 20th century, can be quite valuable. According to PostcardValues.com, some rare postcards can sell for hundreds of dollars.
The value of a postcard depends on its age, condition, and rarity. Postcards with unique or historical images are usually worth more. So, if you have a collection of old postcards, consider having them evaluated by a professional.
8. Old Vinyl Records
Old vinyl records, especially those from popular artists or bands, can be quite valuable. According to Mental Floss, some records can sell for thousands of dollars.
The value of a record depends on its condition, rarity, and the popularity of the artist or band. Records that are still in their original packaging and in mint condition are usually worth more. So, if you have a collection of old vinyl records, consider having them evaluated by a professional.
9. Antique Jewelry
Antique jewelry, especially pieces made from precious metals or containing gemstones, can be quite valuable. According to International Gem Society, some pieces can sell for thousands of dollars.
The value of antique jewelry depends on its age, condition, and the materials used to make it. Pieces that are handmade or come from a well-known designer are usually worth more. So, if you have some antique jewelry lying around, consider having it appraised.
10. Old Photographs
Old photographs, especially those that depict important historical events or figures, can be quite valuable. According to Collectors Weekly, some photographs can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
The value of an old photograph depends on its age, condition, and the subject matter. Photographs that depict important historical events or figures are usually worth more. So, if you have a collection of old photographs, consider having them evaluated by a professional.
