Antique stores are built on the old adage that one man's trash is another man's treasure. Antiquers take these treasures very seriously, and for good reason: There are a lot of valuable items hidden in the corners of thrift stores and antique stores.
People pour through these items every day and pass on items that might actually be worth a nice chunk of change. Antiquing is also not as niche a hobby as it's sometimes depicted. According to the Association of Resale Professionals, one in six Americans check out old treasures at antique stores at least once a year. That's why it's definitely worth learning the tips and tricks of scoring valuable items.
It's hard to get an eye for what might be valuable and what's simply a token of yesteryear, but it's all possible with a little bit of research. We'll get you started with this list of 14 antique store items you should always buy.
1. Vintage Christmas Ornaments
Christmas has always been a popular holiday. Because decorations have changed over the years, ornaments have become beautiful keepsakes for Christmas collectors. Some of the most valuable old Christmas ornaments are ones from the 1950s. As with many items, those still in the original packaging are valued highest.
2. Silverware
Flatware made from real silver can be very valuable and easy to restore if it's a bit worn. Actual silverware will make a ringing sound if you tap it. Sets by manufacturers like Tiffany and Easterling are particularly valuable.
3. Stained Glass
Stained glass is hard to find, but it can be worth a lot of money. Appraisers recommend you check the piece out in person (since some stained glass can be faked online). Do some research based on the piece you're considering so that you know the marks of an authentic item.
4. Antique Instruments
Antique instruments, particularly ones made before mass production, can be very valuable. Even though trends change and values fluctuate, guitars are always high earners.
5. Costume Jewelry
Jewelry doesn't need to be real to be worth big bucks! If you find pieces that are by reputable costume jewelry makers like Weiss and Renoir, they can be worth a pretty penny.
6. Vintage Clothing and Accessories
Vintage clothing isn't just coveted for its style. Because these pieces only gain value as more time passes, vintage clothing and accessories can be a wise purchase for antiquers.
7. Native American Baskets
These marvelous handmade baskets may look like simple decor, but they're so much more than that. In fact, you can learn a lot about these baskets just from how they look. Patterns, shapes, and materials used can tell you about the origin of these pieces. The value is typically based on age and condition and can range from $3,000 to $50,000.
8. Vintage Photographs
There are a lot of factors that play into the value of vintage photographs, such as subject matter, format, and condition. They are also widely available at almost every antique store, so a flip through the pile certainly can't hurt.
9. Perfume Bottles
Many people believe antique perfume bottles are only valuable if they were an upscale brand of perfume, but that's actually not true. The bottle itself is what holds value.
10. Meissen Porcelain
Authentic Meissen porcelain (made in Meissen, Germany) is very valuable if found in good condition. Although it's hard to find, some pieces are worth tens of thousands of dollars.
11. Antique Luggage Sets
That big, beautiful storage trunk you picked up to use as a bench at the foot of your bed or as a coffee table might actually be very valuable. Old luggage is even more valuable if it's from a high-end brand.
12. First Edition Books
Many people buy old books simply because they're beautiful, but if you find a first edition, it could be worth a lot of money. There are a lot of great resources that can tell you the value of a first edition find, so it's easy to make smart buys if you happen upon one.
13. Colored Pyrex Pieces
These incredibly sturdy and colorful cookware pieces are valued at $1,000 to $3,000.
14. Sports Memorabilia
People often throw away collections of memorabilia without thoroughly going through them. Autographed memorabilia, particularly of retired or deceased athletes, can spell big bucks (especially if it's in good condition).
Have you ever found any valuable antique store items?
