These 17 Hidden Treasures in Grandma’s House Could Be Worth a Ton of Money
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Every time one walks into a grandma’s house, it can feel like a journey through time, a nook of memories, souvenirs, and objects that tell stories of another age silently. But beneath these layers of nostalgia and dust can lie something rather extraordinary-something that might be very valuable.
According to Grand View Research, the global collectibles market was valued at USD 294.23 billion in 2023. It is expected to witness a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2030. This underlines the reevaluation of items that are probably collecting dust.
Often dismissed as old clutter, these items can be worth much more than the price paid for them. Read on!
Handmade Furniture
The quality and craftsmanship of handmade furniture generally surpass those of most modern mass-produced items. Unlike machine-made furniture, handmade furniture can possess detailed intricacies, a unique design, and the best materials, which can greatly raise its value.
For instance, a 19th-century mahogany Chippendale can sell for thousands of dollars at auction. The use of harsh cleaning agents or improper storage can irreparably damage such furniture. A scratch on a walnut desk may seem like a minor issue, but it could halve its value.
If you find a stamp or branding from a furniture maker, research it; historically significant makers like Thomas Sheraton or Gustav Stickley often signal high worth. Prioritize preservation by avoiding refinishing unless a professional appraisal recommends it.
Vinyl Records
Your grandma’s dusty box of vinyl records could house gems from artists like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, or Elvis Presley. Collectors particularly coveted first pressings, limited editions, or rare misprints.
For example, a pristine copy of The Beatles’ White Album numbered below 001000 can sell for over $10,000. However, bad storage in damp basements will warp a record and degrade its sound quality and value.
Murano Glass Vases
Murano glass, made on the island of Murano in Venice, is famous worldwide for its bright colors and detailed designs. The unique techniques used in authentic Murano glass vases, such as millefiori or filigree, add to their appeal.
A mid-20th-century Murano vase by Archimede Seguso can fetch thousands of dollars. Watch out for replicas, though. Modern knockoffs usually exhibit mold seams or lack artist signatures, which are obvious tell-tale signs. Check the “Vetro Artistico Murano” label or the artist’s certification to verify authenticity.
Folk Art
Folk art epitomizes a creative way of looking at ordinary people; it most often depicts a community and its tradition. Paintings, carvings, and quilts with unique designs or historical importance attract big money.
A 19th-century carved wooden weather vane once sold for upwards of $800,000 at auction. Poor storage in damp attics and basements can cause such artwork to decay and devalue. The same goes for researching unusual markings or inscriptions pinpointing a region or artist.
Oil Paintings
Original oil paintings, particularly from famous or regional artists, can fetch a pretty penny. Even unsigned pieces from specific periods, such as the Hudson River School, are sought after for their historical significance.
An inherited oil painting from artist Norman Rockwell could fetch millions, but lesser artists may also surprise you. Watch for cracking or discoloration, but these signs of aging usually do not hurt the value.
Pianos
Old pianos, especially those from makers like Steinway & Sons or Bösendorfer, can be very valuable. Restored 19th-century Steinway grands can fetch upwards of $100,000.
Poor care results in warped wood snapped strings and lower values. Store pianos in climate-controlled rooms, away from humid environments. Check the serial numbers inside the piano for information about origin and age. Even broken pianos could bring in a pretty penny for their aesthetic or historical value.
Opaline Vases
Opaline glass vases, popular during the 19th century, have a milky, translucent hue that embodies elegance. They were often created in France and are highly desired by collectors worldwide. Colors like turquoise or pink make them highly sought after.
Look for vases with gilt or enamel embellishments, as these add value. However, the colors may fade if exposed to direct sunlight; therefore, store them away from windows.
Based on auction results, rare pairs of opaline vases have sold for upwards of $20,000. Documenting its provenance, such as old purchase receipts or family history, can also increase its appeal.
Tortoiseshell Boxes
Tortoiseshell boxes were highly fashionable during the Victorian era. They are highly crafted and very often feature precious metals or ivory inlays. Strict international regulations around tortoiseshells today have made these antique pieces highly desirable.
A Georgian tortoiseshell tea caddy can sell for several thousand dollars, depending on condition and craftsmanship. However, failing to store them properly could lead to warping or discoloration. To maintain their finish, keep them away from direct heat or sunlight.
Quilts
Handmade quilts, especially those made before 1940, can have a story of either familial or cultural importance. Rare ones, such as those made by the Amish or the community at Gee’s Bend, have sold for tens of thousands of dollars at auctions.
Old quilts’ delicate stitching and fabric can be ruined if washed in a standard machine. Store them in acid-free tissue paper instead and avoid repeatedly folding them in the same place. Look for patterns or signatures that indicate rarity or link them to a specific era.
Dinnerware
Grandma’s china cabinet might hold more than sentimental value dinnerware sets, especially those from renowned brands like Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, or Limoges, which can fetch significant sums.
For instance, a collection of rare patterns, such as those from Wedgwood “Fairyland Lustre,” has sold for over $10,000. Store them accordingly with padded dividers. Avoid using dishwashers, which can wear patterns off. Makers usually mark the underside of these plates to identify authenticity and origin.
Stained Glass Lamps
Certain pieces, like stained glass lamps created by Tiffany Studios, can be very valuable and highly collectible. An authentic Tiffany lamp boasting a glass and bronze base can sell for upwards of $1 million.
Replicas abound, so look for the “Tiffany Studios New York” mark on the bottom and high-quality, irregular solder lines as evidence of handmade construction. Sunlight and dust can cause grime to build up on the glass, depressing value; careful washing regularly is important.
Posters
Vintage posters, especially those advertising travel, movies, or products from the late 19th to mid-20th century, are highly sought after by collectors. An original Art Nouveau poster by Alphonse Mucha or a 1930s movie poster for Casablanca can command prices in the tens of thousands.
Poor storage in damp conditions can irreparably damage them through mold or fading. Store posters flat in archival-grade sleeves or under UV-protective glass frames. Limited runs or those by famous artists may demand a more excellent value.
Persian Rugs
Handwoven Persian rugs, particularly those made before the 20th century, are highly valued for their craftsmanship and intricate designs. For instance, a fine silk Qum rug can sell for $30,000 or more, depending on the condition and size.
Features to look for include symmetrical knots, hand-tied fringes, and variations in color from natural dye, all of which add to the authenticity. Rugs with provenance, such as origin documentation or ownership history, can fetch even higher prices.
Light Sculptures
Vintage light sculpture is highly collectible. Particularly sought-after mid-century modern works from artists such as Isamu Noguchi and Ingo Maurer command high prices at auction. These sculptures combine light and sculpture to create functional artworks.
For instance, Noguchi’s light sculptures, known as Akari, are iconic and highly valuable, with rare models selling for thousands of dollars. Dust and dirt should be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth, and extreme heat and humidity should be avoided.
Books
Rare books, first editions, or those of great historical significance could be the hidden gems in Grandma’s library. The first edition of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone sold for more than $400,000.
Antique volumes like the Bay Psalm Book can sell for millions of dollars. Never keep your books in damp basements or direct sunlight, as the moisture and light will cause mold and fading. Check for signatures, inscriptions, or bookplates, which enhance their value.
Ceramics
Ceramic collectibles, such as those from brands like Meissen, Rosenthal, or Staffordshire, are highly sought after by collectors. Unique features like limited-edition designs or artist signatures can increase their value. A rare Meissen figurine, for instance, may fetch tens of thousands of dollars.
Handle ceramics very carefully because chips or minute cracks can drastically reduce their worth. Check the underside of pieces for makers’ marks or inscriptions that identify the manufacturer and date of production.
Mirrors and Antique Armoires
Ornaments and mirrors, as much as antique armoires, are highly treasured by interior designers and collectors. A giltwood mirror from the 18th century or a hand-carved French armoire fetches tens of thousands of dollars.
Improper cleaning, though, using ammonia-based products, can strip gilding off or damage the wood finishes. Check for aging on the glass of mirrors, like foxing; this adds to character and value. Armoires’ values come with the craftsmanship and the unique carvings.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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