Can’t remember the last time you rummaged through your parents’ attic? This list will show you exactly what to look for. From first-edition novels to Cabbage Patch Kids and signed yearbooks, there are tons of items you grew up with that may sell for a small fortune today.
Vintage Luggage
Collectors love luggage. If your family owns a mid-century set in good condition, it could be worth hundreds today.
First-Edition Books
Did your parents keep copies of your favorite children’s books? First-edition classics like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Velveteen Rabbit can sell for anywhere between $100 to more than $1,000.
Family Board Games
The same idea goes for first or collector’s-edition board games. If you kept a family favorite in mint condition, it could be sold for the same price or more today. The rarest board games are worth thousands.
Perfume Bottles
Your mom’s signature scent isn’t worth a fortune, but the glass bottle it came in might be. Yes, perfume bottle collecting is a real thing—and the right sales make hundreds.
Vintage Advertising Signs
If your parents used one of these for basement décor, you might want to put it back on the market. Vintage metal signs from brands like Coca Cola and John Deere are worth up to $300 today.
Small Appliances
That old toaster your mom tucked away? Bring it back out. A select few vintage toasters are worth hundreds now. The same goes for mid-century Oster blenders, as long as they’re fully restored.
Record Player
If you kept an old record player in the family, consider refurbishing it. Most vintage working turntables fall between the $500 to $600 range today, but some can sell for up to $3,500.
Retro Video Games
The hours you spent gaming from the family room couch weren’t a waste, after all! Collectors will pay thousands for retro video games these days.
Original Fiestaware
We all love Fiestaware—but did your family own the real deal? Original Fiestaware from the ‘30s can be sold for hundreds now, since some of the original colors were discontinued. A full vintage set can even go for close to $1,500.
Boy Scout Memorabilia
If your brother was a Boy Scout, his merit badges could be worth hundreds to collectors. Sewn or used patches are valued a bit less than those in pristine condition.
Old Cookbooks
Need another reason to love Julia Child? If your parents snagged a copy of her original cookbook published by Knopf in 1961, it could be worth hundreds this year.
Antique Tools
Your dad’s old woodworking tool might work better than its modern equivalent—which means it’s also worth more money if sold today. Certain saws, hand drills, and wrenches are widely sought-after by collectors.
Vintage Lunchboxes
Who knew the metal lunchbox you used in elementary school would become a hundred-dollar novelty? (Especially if you still have the Thermos to match!)
Vintage Purses
If your mom’s outgrown her vintage Chanel, she might want to put it back on the market. Designer handbag styles often come and go, which means secondhand purses can sell for more than double their original price.
Old Magazines
Referred to as “ephemera” by collectors, some limited-edition magazines can be sold for hundreds today. Consider important factors like popular culture, historic events, and the issue date before you sell. And when in doubt, ask for an appraisal.
Musical Instruments
Grow up with a guitar player at home? His or her instrument could be worth a small fortune—especially if it was part of the Fender family. Many 1960s Fender Stratocasters sell for nearly $2,000 or more.
Jewelry
When was the last time you went through your mom’s jewelry box? From brooches to pendants, bracelets, and earrings, chances are there are a few pretty pieces she still owns—and rarely wears—worth thousands.
Signed Yearbook
If you went to high school with a famous athlete or celebrity and there’s a chance they signed your yearbook, dig it out of the closet and talk to an expert. You might be able to sell it for a small fortune.
Clocks
If your parents still have that old fancy wall clock, consider taking it down for an appraisal. Antique clocks with trademarks are especially valuable to collectors and often sell within the thousand-dollar range.
Vintage Toys
Your favorite old toy may be a (play)thing of the past, but it could be worth some nice pocket cash today. Some vintage pogo sticks are sold for close to $50 and original Cabbage Patch Dolls are worth hundreds.
