Valuable Vintage And Antique Items You Might Have

Many people have items stored in attics, closets, and basements. These could be childhood memories, items left as an inheritance, or things just accumulated over time. If you have ever wondered if any of these items have more than sentimental value, they could! It all depends on quality, quantity, and collectors. Here are some items you might have around your home that could bring in some cash.

Coins and paper currency

Money has always been collectible, whether it is modern misprinted coins or bills with a known history. You don’t have to have a large collection to sell either, although you will often find them selling for more money at auction and other avenues. If you have some coins sitting around or a collection hiding in your home, do some research. You may find something worth selling or auctioning off.

Vintage and antique toys

Lots of people have older toys that they have kept from their own childhoods or from their families. It isn’t uncommon to find vintage and antique toys in your home, especially if you have a large property with a barn or storage building. Vintage toys are popular for their nostalgia while antique toys are great for collecting or using as decor. Here are some popular toys to keep an eye out for.

Ceramics and glassware

Both of these types of collectibles require identification before they can be sold. You must be aware of what you have or you may not get what it is worth. With both ceramics and glassware, you will likely find some sort of marking or initials. A little research into the makers will help you determine the value of each piece. The condition is also important. If you can’t find anything about your glass pieces or ceramics, consider taking them to an appraiser for help.

Musical instruments

People love music, bands, and instruments. Guitars are especially popular among enthusiasts. These items don’t have to have a significant history to sell well either. Instruments made or used within the last 70 years hold value, especially if they are in great shape. Popular guitar brands known for their quality will, of course, sell the best of “common” lots while guitars with a documented history usually go for the most.

Costume jewelry

Real gemstones and precious metals, antique jewelry, and pieces with provenance all sell extremely well at auction. But, costume jewelry can also be popular at these events. If you have a collection gathering dust, consider selling it at an auction. Although most may not be worth thousands of dollars (some actually are!), these pieces can bring in quite a bit of money from the right bidders.

Christmas ornaments

Most are familiar with the image of green or red plastic bins filled with holiday decorations. If you have older ornaments, specifically old enough to be considered vintage, you could be sitting on a good amount of money. The key is in the material that the decorations are made from. Hand-blown glass ornaments sell well and depending on when and where they were made, could go for thousands of dollars at an auction.

Looking to sell your items at auction?

If you would like to sell any of your items at auction, contact the experts at High Plains Auctioneers. We offer a variety of auctions throughout the year including antique and estate auctions. You can reach us at (806) 244-6776 to learn more or view our Upcoming Auctions to see what we have available to buy.