Everyday Household Items That Are Surprisingly Valuable to Collectors

Jennie Barclay/Shutterstock

Many people overlook everyday household items, assuming they have little value. However, numerous common objects can be surprisingly valuable to collectors. Here’s a guide to ten of these items, their potential worth, and tips on how to get started in collecting.

Vintage Pyrex Dishes

Vintage Pyrex cookware, particularly from the 1950s and 1960s, is highly sought after. Collectors love colorful patterns and unique shapes.

Worth:

Certain patterns, such as “Butterfly Gold” and “Primary Colors,” can sell for $50 to over $500, depending on rarity and condition.

Tips:

Look for pieces without scratches or chips. Check estate sales or thrift stores for hidden gems.

Courtesy: Jennie Barclay/Shutterstock

Fire-King Glassware

Produced by the Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation, Fire-King glassware is recognized for its durability and classic designs. Popular patterns include “Hobnail” and “Daisy and Button.”

Worth:

Individual pieces can range from $20 to $150, while complete sets can go for several hundred dollars.

Tips:

Familiarize yourself with different patterns and their values. Always check for the Fire-King mark on the bottom.

Courtesy: reddit.com

Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Mid-century modern furniture is known for its clean lines and functional designs, featuring pieces by iconic designers like Eames and Nelson.

Worth:

Items can range from $200 for lesser-known pieces to thousands for designer originals.

Tips:

Attend estate sales or auctions. Ensure authenticity by researching marks or labels from reputable designers.

Courtesy: kardiel.com

Depression Glass

This colorful glassware was produced during the Great Depression (1929-1939). Its characteristic patterns, such as “Cameo” and “Pineapple,” appeal to collectors.

Worth:

Depending on the rarity and condition, pieces can be valued between $10 and $300.

Tips:

Join online collector groups to learn about patterns and prices. Inspect pieces for chips, as condition heavily impacts value.

Courtesy: The Spruce / Pamela Wiggins

Old Cookbooks

Cookbooks from the early to mid-20th century, especially those with unique recipes or authored by famous chefs, can hold significant value.

Worth:

Prices can range from $15 for common editions to over $500 for rare or first editions.

Tips:

Look for cookbooks that are in good condition and check for signatures or inscriptions that can increase their value.

Courtesy: reddit.com

Collectible Dinnerware

Brands like Lenox, Spode, and Royal Doulton produce dinnerware that can become highly collectible, particularly older patterns.

Worth:

Sets can range from $50 to over $1,000, especially if they are discontinued or rare.

Tips:

Research discontinued patterns online. Check for any chips or scratches before purchasing.

Courtesy: fancyfleaantiques.com

Tupperware

Vintage Tupperware from the 1960s and 70s is gaining traction among collectors, especially iconic pieces like the “Jello Mold” and “Wonderlier Bowl.”

Worth:

Certain pieces can sell for $10 to $100, while rare items can reach $300.

Tips:

Look for pieces with lids and original seals. Familiarize yourself with Tupperware’s production years for better identification.

Courtesy: Tamer Adel Soliman | Credit: Shutterstock

Old Bottles

Antique glass bottles, especially those with unique shapes or labels, can attract collectors. Bottles from soda companies or pharmacies are particularly popular.

Worth:

Common bottles may sell for $10 to $50, while rare ones can fetch several hundred dollars.

Tips:

Search local beaches, historical sites, or flea markets. Learn to identify bottles by age, material, and brand.

Courtesy: sha.org

Vintage Toys

Toys from the 1970s and 1980s, such as original Star Wars figures or Barbie dolls, can be valuable, especially in their original packaging.

Worth:

Prices vary widely, with some items selling for $10 and others reaching thousands.

Tips:

Check attic storage or garage sales. Condition is crucial; toys in their original boxes are often worth significantly more.

Courtesy: jenniferperkins.com

Records and Vintage Music Items

Vinyl records, especially first pressings of iconic albums, are incredibly collectible. Collectors also seek out vintage record players and music memorabilia.

Worth:

Records can range from $5 to several thousand, depending on the artist and condition.

Tips:

Look for records at estate sales and flea markets. Check condition and consider investing in a good turntable to enjoy your collection.

Courtesy: Bob Palermini

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