20 Items in Your Parent’s House That Could Be Worth a Lot of Money Today
This post may contain affiliate links.
Have you ever wondered if those old items collecting dust in your parent’s house could be worth a small fortune? You might be in for a pleasant surprise. A Prince T-shirt on Poshmark sold for $380, and a 1990s Mario Brothers Nintendo 64 Game T-shirt sold for $150. Many seemingly mundane items, from vintage electronics to old comic books, can fetch a hefty price today. Let’s walk down memory lane and uncover the hidden treasures that might just make you rich.
Old Video Game Consoles and Games
Remember those old video game consoles you used to play with? They might be worth more than you think. Classic consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) or Sega Genesis, especially those with rare titles, have become highly sought after by collectors. The nostalgia factor and the rarity of some games make them valuable. For instance, a copy of “Super Mario Bros.” for NES recently sold for thousands of dollars at auction.
Vintage Stereo Equipment
Before the days of digital music, people relied on high-quality stereo equipment to enjoy their favorite tunes. Vintage stereo systems, including brands like Marantz and Pioneer, can fetch a pretty penny today. Audiophiles love the rich, warm sound these vintage systems produce, and collectors are always looking for well-preserved pieces.
Early Personal Computers
Early personal computers like the Apple II or Commodore 64 are more than just relics of the past—they’re valuable collectibles. These machines represent a significant era in the history of computing, and tech enthusiasts are willing to pay top dollar for them. Even accessories like old floppy disks and software can add to the value.
Vinyl Records
Vinyl records are more than just a blast from the past; they’re a booming market. Rare pressings or first editions, especially from iconic artists, can be worth a lot. For instance, a 1957 Elvis Christmas album was listed for $149 on Reverb.
Vintage Toys and Action Figures
Toys from the past, especially those still in their original packaging, can be incredibly valuable. Action figures from popular franchises like Star Wars, G.I. Joe, and Transformers are highly coveted. A pristine condition Star Wars action figure from the late ’70s can sell for thousands.
Beanie Babies
Believe it or not, some Beanie Babies can still fetch a high price. While most are not worth much, rare ones—often with misprinted tags—can be pretty valuable.
Comic Books
Comic books are another treasure trove of potential value. First editions and issues that introduced popular characters can be worth a small fortune. For instance, the first edition of “Action Comics” #1, which features the debut of Superman, sold for over $3 million. It’s worth digging through those old boxes to see if you have hidden gems.
Vintage Pyrex and Other Kitchenware
That old Pyrex dish might be more valuable than you think. Vintage kitchenware, especially in rare colors or patterns, is highly collectible—an American Sweetheart tea set sold for $405 on eBay.
Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Mid-century modern furniture is all the rage in today’s interior design world. Pieces from this era, characterized by clean lines and organic shapes, can be extremely valuable. Brands like Eames, Herman Miller, and Knoll are especially sought after. Even lesser-known pieces can add a retro-chic touch to modern homes and command high prices.
Antique Silverware Sets
Antique silverware sets, especially those in good condition, can be valuable. Sets from well-known silversmiths like Tiffany & Co. or Gorham are highly prized. The set’s craftsmanship, design, and completeness often determine its value. Don’t overlook those old family heirlooms—they could be worth a lot.
Vintage Cookie Jars
Quirky and colorful cookie jars from the mid-20th century are surprisingly valuable. Collectors are always looking for unique designs; some jars can sell for hundreds of dollars.
First Edition Books
First-edition books, primarily classic novels, can be worth significant money. Titles like “To Kill a Mockingbird” or “The Great Gatsby” are highly sought after in their first print runs. The book’s condition plays a crucial role in its value, so keep an eye out for well-preserved copies.
Old Magazines with Notable Cover Stars
Magazines featuring iconic cover stars or significant events can also be valuable—a special edition of Life magazine from 1969 featuring Woodstock sold for $113. Even more recent magazines, like early editions of Rolling Stone featuring rock legends, can fetch high prices.
Vintage Postcards
Old postcards, especially those from significant historical events or featuring famous landmarks, can be worth a lot. Collectors love postcards for their nostalgic value and historical significance. Look for postcards with unique stamps, cancellations, or messages—they can add to the item’s value.
Old Documents
Old letters, deeds, or other documents can be worth a lot, especially if they are historically significant. They offer a tangible connection to the past that many collectors find irresistible.
Vintage Designer Handbags
Designer handbags from brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès are always in demand. Vintage pieces, especially those in good condition, can be extremely valuable. A classic Chanel flap bag from the ’80s can quickly sell for thousands of dollars today.
Retro/Vintage T-shirts
Vintage T-shirts are a hot commodity, particularly those from concerts or with iconic logos. A Prince T-shirt on Poshmark sold for $380, and a 1990s Mario Brothers Nintendo 64 Game T-shirt sold for $150.
Old Coins and Currency
Old coins and currency, especially rare or historical ones, can be very valuable. Coins minted with errors or limited editions are particularly sought after by collectors. Old paper money, like silver certificates or Confederate currency, can fetch high prices.
Vintage Cameras
Vintage cameras from brands like Leica, Nikon, and Canon are highly collectible. Photography enthusiasts and collectors are drawn to the craftsmanship and history of these old cameras. Even accessories like lenses and film can add to the value.
Antique Typewriters
Antique typewriters, especially those in working condition, are another valuable collectible. Brands like Underwood, Royal, and Remington are particularly prized. The appeal lies in the mechanical beauty and nostalgia of these old machines.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
How to Sell on Etsy – My Top 10 Lessons as a 5-Star Etsy Seller
Are you looking to start selling online? Etsy is one of the biggest online marketplaces for hosting an online shop. It’s easy to use and has more than 90 million active buyers (in the fourth quarter of 2021 alone) looking for unique, handmade, or vintage items (at least 20 years old).
How to Sell on Etsy – My Top 10 Lessons as a 5-Star Etsy Seller
31 Forgotten Household Items from the Past
The blueprint of the quintessential American home has undeniably evolved over the decades. Whether you attribute it to the leaps in technology or the shifting sands of aesthetic tastes, the fact remains: items once deemed as household staples have now drifted into obscurity.
