Thinking Of Selling Grandma’s Antiques? Here Are 22 Things That Could Be Worth Thousands

Tucked away in forgotten boxes and tucked corners, Grandma’s attic holds more than just memories – it could be a goldmine in disguise. What looks like outdated decor or odd collectibles might actually be sought-after antiques worth a small fortune.

From timeworn trinkets to long-lost heirlooms, many of these items have become highly prized by collectors and auction houses alike. So before you clear out the clutter, take a moment – you might just stumble upon a hidden gem that turns nostalgia into newfound value.

1. Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Those sleek wooden pieces with clean lines and minimal fuss aren’t just stylish – they’re highly collectible. Mid-century modern furniture from designers like Eames, Knoll, or Herman Miller can fetch astronomical prices.

Even unmarked pieces from the 1950s-1960s might be worth investigating before selling at a yard sale. The simple, functional designs have enjoyed a massive resurgence in popularity over the last decade.

2. Vintage Costume Jewelry

Sparkly treasures in Grandma’s jewelry box might be more valuable than they appear. Even non-precious metals and stones can command high prices when they bear the right maker’s mark.

Vintage costume jewelry from designers like Miriam Haskell, Trifari, or Eisenberg can sell for hundreds or thousands. Look for pieces with all stones intact, minimal wear, and original clasps or pins for maximum value.

3. Antique Quilts

Hand-stitched history might be folded in your linen closet. Antique quilts, especially those with unique patterns or historical significance, can be worth thousands to collectors.

The most valuable examples date from the 19th century and feature intricate hand-stitching. Unusual patterns, vibrant colors that haven’t faded, and documented provenance all increase a quilt’s value significantly.

4. Vintage Watches

Grandfather’s old timepiece might be ticking away a small fortune. Vintage watches from brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Omega regularly sell for eye-popping amounts, even when not working.

Military watches from WWII hold special appeal for collectors. Even lesser-known brands can be valuable if they’re in good condition with original parts. The patina that comes with age often adds character and value.

5. Antique Advertising Signs

Rusty metal signs gathering dust in the garage could be worth a small fortune. Vintage advertising for popular brands like Coca-Cola, automotive companies, or tobacco products are highly sought after by collectors.

Porcelain signs typically command higher prices than tin ones. Condition matters, but even signs with some rust or wear can be valuable. The most desirable examples feature bright colors, interesting graphics, and brands that evoke nostalgia.

6. Vintage Cameras

Old cameras aren’t just obsolete technology – they’re potential goldmines. Certain brands like Leica, Hasselblad, and early Kodak models command premium prices from photography enthusiasts and collectors.

Working condition isn’t always necessary for value. Rare models, limited editions, or cameras with unique features can sell for thousands. The leather cases and original accessories that often accompanied these cameras add significant value when present.

7. Antique Toys

Childhood playthings from decades past can be worth serious adult money today. Vintage toys from brands like Lionel trains, early Barbie dolls, or cast iron banks often sell for thousands in good condition.

Original packaging dramatically increases value. Toys from the pre-1960s era, especially those made of tin, cast iron, or early plastics, tend to be most valuable. Even well-loved toys with some wear can find eager buyers.

8. Sterling Silver Flatware

Family silver tucked away in a drawer might be worth more than its weight in precious metal. Complete sets of sterling silver flatware from well-known makers like Tiffany, Gorham, or Reed & Barton can command impressive prices.

Rare or discontinued patterns are especially valuable. Even incomplete sets or single serving pieces in desirable patterns can be worth hundreds. The patina of properly maintained silver adds character that collectors appreciate.

9. Vintage Comic Books

Superhero stories stashed in the basement could fund your retirement. Early issues featuring first appearances of popular characters like Superman, Batman, or Spider-Man can be worth staggering sums.

Condition is paramount in comic collecting. Even less famous titles from the Golden Age (1938-1956) can be valuable. Comics from the 1960s-70s featuring Marvel characters have seen tremendous price growth in recent years thanks to popular movies.

10. Native American Artifacts

Cultural treasures handed down through generations deserve special attention and respect. Authentic Native American baskets, pottery, beadwork, and textiles can be extremely valuable to collectors and museums.

Navajo rugs and blankets from the early 20th century often sell for thousands. Remember that certain items may be subject to laws like the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, so research provenance carefully before selling.

11. Vintage Purses And Handbags

Fashion accessories from yesteryear might carry unexpected value. Vintage handbags from luxury brands like Hermès, Chanel, or Louis Vuitton can appreciate significantly over time, sometimes outperforming traditional investments.

Even bags from the mid-20th century by makers like Enid Collins or Whiting & Davis can fetch hundreds or thousands. Look for good condition, original hardware, and distinctive designs that showcase the era’s aesthetic.

12. Antique Clocks

Timepieces from past centuries might be worth far more than their weight. Grandfather clocks, mantel clocks, and wall clocks from renowned makers like Seth Thomas or Howard Miller can command thousands from collectors.

Unusual mechanisms, ornate cases, or rare designs increase value substantially. Working condition is preferred but not always necessary – even non-functioning antique clocks can be valuable for their craftsmanship and historical significance.

13. Vintage Record Albums

Grandma’s music collection might contain some chart-topping values. First pressings, limited editions, or albums with printing errors can be worth hundreds or even thousands to the right collector.

Records from iconic artists like The Beatles, Elvis Presley, or early jazz musicians tend to be most valuable. Condition is crucial – albums still in shrink wrap or with minimal play wear command premium prices. Original inserts or posters further increase value.

14. First Edition Books

Dusty old volumes might contain literary gold. First editions of classic novels or works by renowned authors can fetch staggering sums at auction, especially with dust jackets intact.

Books signed by the author increase value exponentially. Even seemingly ordinary books from the early-to-mid 20th century could be worth checking before donating. Look for publishing information on the copyright page to identify potential first editions.

15. Antique Fishing Gear

Old tackle boxes might contain lures worth more than the day’s catch. Vintage fishing lures, especially those made by Heddon, Creek Chub, or Pflueger, can be worth hundreds or thousands to collectors.

Wooden lures with original paint and hardware are particularly valuable. Rare colors, unusual designs, or limited production models command premium prices. Even rusty old reels from brands like Vom Hofe can be worth investigating before discarding.

16. Vintage Christmas Ornaments

Holiday decorations from decades past could bring year-round joy to your wallet. Vintage glass ornaments, especially those from Germany or made by Shiny Brite in the 1940s-50s, can fetch surprising prices.

Unusual shapes, colors, or hand-painted details increase value. Complete sets in original boxes command premium prices. Even seemingly simple mercury glass balls from the early-to-mid 20th century can be worth hundreds to the right collector.

17. Antique Kitchen Tools

Cooking implements from the past can serve up delicious profits. Vintage cast iron cookware, especially rare pieces from Griswold or Wagner, can be worth hundreds or even thousands in good condition.

Unusual kitchen gadgets, early electrical appliances, or hand-cranked tools often attract collectors. Even wooden rolling pins, cookie cutters, or butter molds can have significant value when they feature unique designs or are made by notable manufacturers.

18. Vintage Perfume Bottles

Fragrant memories might be contained in valuable vessels. Perfume bottles from luxury brands like Lalique, Baccarat, or early Tiffany designs can command thousands, especially with original stoppers and minimal damage.

Art Deco designs from the 1920s-30s are particularly sought after. Even commercial perfume bottles with distinctive designs can be collectible. The most valuable examples feature hand-painted details, unusual forms, or high-quality crystal construction.

19. Vintage Fountain Pens

Writing instruments from bygone eras might ink impressive profits. Fountain pens from prestigious makers like Montblanc, Parker, or Waterman can be worth hundreds or thousands, especially limited editions or early models.

Gold nibs, intricate filling mechanisms, and unusual materials increase value. Working condition is preferred but not essential – even damaged vintage pens can be valuable for parts or restoration. Original boxes and paperwork multiply the value significantly.

20. Antique Telephones

Communication devices from the past can connect you with serious cash. Early telephones, especially candlestick models from the early 1900s or colorful rotary phones from the 1950s-60s, attract eager collectors.

Unusual colors or designs command premium prices. Working condition adds value but isn’t essential. Phones with original components, minimal wear, or from prestigious makers like Western Electric are particularly desirable in today’s nostalgic marketplace.

21. Vintage Board Games

Family entertainment from decades past might be a winning investment. Board games from the pre-1960s era, especially those with colorful lithographed boards and complete pieces, can be worth hundreds or thousands.

First editions of classics like Monopoly or unusual games with short production runs are most valuable. Games tied to popular culture phenomena of their time often attract collectors. Original boxes in good condition significantly increase the value of vintage games.

22. Antique Radios

Devices that once brought news and entertainment into homes now broadcast significant value. Art Deco radios from the 1930s-40s, especially those with Bakelite or catalin cases in unusual colors, can sell for thousands.

Cathedral-shaped wooden radios from the 1920s-30s are particularly sought after. Working condition adds value but isn’t essential for rare models. Even table radios from the 1950s with distinctive mid-century designs can command surprisingly high prices.