Are you looking for a way to declutter your basement and make some extra cash at the same time? You may be surprised to learn that many of the items you have stored away could be worth a lot of money! From vintage clothing to rare collectibles, there are a multitude of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. In this article, we've compiled a list of 50 random things that could be worth a lot of money. So, grab your flashlight, and let's start exploring! You never know what kind of valuables you may find lurking in the depths of your basement.
Athletic Shoes
Athletic shoes, particularly those with a storied past, can hold immense value to collectors and enthusiasts alike. Take, for example, the 1972 Nike Waffle Racing Flat "Moon Shoes". These shoes were worn by Olympic athletes and only 12 pairs were ever produced.
Today, a pair of these rare sneakers can fetch upwards of $400,000 at auction. But it's not just the rarity of these shoes that makes them valuable; it's the history and cultural significance they represent. If you want to give back to the community, consider donating such shoes to organizations like Give Your Sole.
Halloween Costumes
Experts agree that playing dress-up is an excellent way to boost children's creativity, imagination, and self-confidence. While it may be tempting to discard old and wrinkled store-bought Halloween costumes, they can still provide children with hours of imaginative play.
Additionally, reusing old costumes helps promote sustainable living by reducing waste. So, even though your old costumes may not be worth a lot of money, they’ll surely save you the cost of buying new clothes every year. If you want to get rid of them anyway, consider selling them on eBay, Etsy, or through a good old-fashioned garage sale.
Board Games
Vintage board games hold a unique place in the world of collectibles. These games are often nostalgic and remind us of simpler times when we spent hours playing with friends and family. But beyond their sentimental value, vintage board games can also hold significant monetary value.
Vintage board games hold a unique place in the world of collectibles. These games are often nostalgic and remind us of simpler times when we spent hours playing with friends and family. But beyond their sentimental value, vintage board games can also hold significant monetary value.
Vacuum Cleaners
While vacuum cleaners might not immediately come to mind when thinking about valuable collectibles, some models can hold significant value for collectors. The Hoover 738, for example, was a popular model introduced in the 1960s that is sought after by vintage vacuum enthusiasts.
Collectors appreciate the design and engineering of these machines, which often reflect the style and technology of the era in which they were produced. Even if they’re not functional, vintage vacuums can serve as a quirky decorative pieces. No wonder the Hoover 738 is now being sold for $499 on eBay.
Retro Video Games
Retro video games, especially those from the 80s and 90s, have become highly collectible items in recent years. The surge of nostalgia for classic games has caused prices for these games to skyrocket, with some rare titles fetching thousands of dollars.
Popular retro games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Sonic the Hedgehog can sell for hundreds of dollars, while rarer titles like the Nintendo World Championships 1990 cartridge can command prices upwards of $100,000. The condition of the game, the packaging, and whether it's a first edition or a limited release can all significantly impact the value of a retro game.
Pyrex Dishes
Pyrex dishes have been a staple in kitchens around the world for nearly a century, and they have also become a sought-after collector's item. Some vintage Pyrex dishes are particularly valuable, with rare pieces fetching high prices at auction or in collector's markets.
Beyond their monetary value, Pyrex dishes hold a special place in the hearts of many families, often being passed down from generation to generation. These dishes are not only functional kitchen tools but also cherished family heirlooms and nostalgic reminders of happy times spent around the dinner table.
Boy Scouts Memorabilia
The Boy Scouts of America, founded in 1910, remain a prominent organization with millions of members. From patches to complete uniforms and gear, the value of their memorabilia has skyrocketed over the years. Some of the most valuable items are from the early years of the Boy Scouts.
For example, a 1910 Handbook for Boys could be worth thousands of dollars, while a rare first edition of the Boy Scout Handbook from 1911 could sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Other valuable items include badges from the 1910s and 1920s, complete uniforms from the 1930s and 1940s, and vintage camping equipment.
Jeans
Vintage denim and jeans, particularly those produced by iconic brands like Levi's, represent a cultural shift in American fashion. You might have noticed how long-lasting and durable these jeans can be.
That’s just proof of the craftsmanship and quality of the era in which they were made. And yes, you guessed it, jeans have also become collectible items with rare and unique pieces fetching high prices at auction. Owning a pair of vintage Levi's jeans is like owning a piece of history and many people are willing to pay thousands of dollars for it.
Kitchen Knives
A good kitchen knife is an essential tool in any cook's arsenal, and vintage knives can prove to be valuable assets. On online marketplaces such as eBay, vintage knives can sell for thousands of dollars, especially if they are handmade or have carbon blades.
Even if your old kitchen knife isn’t particularly promising, it can still serve a valuable purpose with proper care and maintenance. A visit to a local knife sharpener can restore a dull blade to its former sharpness, allowing you to continue using it for many years to come.
Frying Pans
Much like retro machines, vintage kitchen items are highly sought after in the collectibles market. Among them, cast iron skillets are a beloved product, and can fetch high prices for collectors. If you happen to find one in your basement, don't just toss it aside.
Cast iron pans from makers such as Griswold, Wagner, and Lodge are highly valued and can be sold for hundreds of dollars. Items like antique rolling pins, enamelware, and vintage Pyrex dishes can also bring in good money. So next time you're doing a deep clean of your basement or attic, keep an eye out for vintage kitchen treasures.
Newspapers
If you're looking for an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to paper towels for cleaning windows and mirrors, consider repurposing old newspapers that are taking up space in your basement. Not only are they highly absorbent, but they also leave no streaks or residue.
Moreover, if you come across a newspaper that has historical significance, it could potentially be worth a significant amount of money to collectors. For instance, newspapers covering major events such as the assassination of President John F. Kennedy or the moon landing can fetch high prices at auction.
Vinyl Records
In recent years, there has been a growing trend among music enthusiasts to ditch digital formats in favor of vinyl records. The appeal of vinyl is largely due to its superior sound quality, with many arguing that it offers a more authentic and rich listening experience.
For collectors, certain records can be worth a fortune. For example, the boxed set of U2's "The Joshua Tree Collection" released in 1987, The Beatles' "The Collection" from 1982, or the 7-inch release of Bruce Springsteen's "Spirit in the Night" from 1973 can fetch up to thousands of dollars. However, the condition is key, and records in pristine condition are particularly valuable.
Worn Out Clothes
Donating clothes to non-profit organizations like Goodwill is a great way to give back to your community and help those in need. Additionally, you may be able to deduct your charitable contributions from your taxes. However, even clothes that are no longer suitable for donation can still have a second life.
Worn-out soft goods like t-shirts, towels, and tablecloths can be repurposed and used for cleaning and DIY home renovation projects. These fabrics can make excellent rags for wiping down surfaces, polishing furniture, or even cleaning up spills. By repurposing old clothes and fabrics, you can reduce waste and save money while also giving your home a personal touch.
Firecrackers
Since the 19th century, Americans have been importing fireworks from China, and the labels and packaging on these vintage fireworks can be incredibly beautiful and intricate. If you have a collection of vintage fireworks, they could be worth a few hundred dollars, especially if the packaging and labels are in good condition.
However, it's important to store them safely in a cool and dry place, as they can be volatile and dangerous. Despite the risks, collecting vintage fireworks can be a unique and interesting hobby for those who appreciate the beauty of antique packaging and labels.
Computers
Old computers such as the Apple 1 or Apple II may seem like obsolete pieces of technology but they pack a ton of value. They are iconic relics of a time when the computer industry was just beginning to take off, and they represent the pioneering spirit of the individuals who helped shape the technology landscape as we know it.
These vintage computers are not only historically significant but also collectible items that have grown in value over time. For example, a working Apple 1 can fetch millions of dollars at auction, making it one of the most expensive computer collectibles in the world. In 2019, an Apple 1 sold for the grand price of $470,000.
Dresses
Vintage dresses are more than just beautiful pieces of clothing. They are like time capsules, taking us back to the eras they came from and giving us a glimpse into the culture, attitudes, and trends of the time.
Each dress has its own unique story, whether it was worn to a Hollywood party, a wedding, or a night out on the town. Some vintage dresses are particularly rare or iconic, such as the "little black dress" designed by Coco Chanel, or Marilyn Monroe's famous white halter dress from "The Seven Year Itch". Naturally, these vintage dresses can be worth a lot of money, especially if they’re designer.
Old Books
Whether they contain rare and valuable information, beautiful illustrations, or represent a significant moment in literary history, books and manuscripts can hold immense value to collectors and enthusiasts. Sometimes, a rare first-edition book can be worth more than gold itself.
For example, the "First Folio" by Shakespeare, a collection of his plays published in 1623, is one of the most coveted books in the world, with only 235 known copies in existence. In 2006, it sold for $5.2 million. You might not have Shakespeare’s invaluable works in your basement but you might have the next best thing.
Comics
It should come as no surprise that the colorful and illustrated forms of storytelling that created an empire of series and gathered dedicated fans can be quite valuable. Yes, we’re talking about comics! The most valuable comics are those published between the 1930s and 1970s, with covers priced from 10c to 25c.
However, once the cover price reached 30c, the value of comics began to decrease. So far, rare comics have sold for amounts between several hundred thousand dollars and several million. Therefore, if you have old comics that have been well-preserved and are from the right era, you may have a treasure trove in your hands.
Handmade Quilts
For people who love collecting creative nick knacks, handmade quilts are the perfect item. Each quilt tells a unique story, representing the personality, cultural heritage, and artistic vision of the quiltmaker. Depending on the age, condition, and rarity of the quilt, they can be worth thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
Many Americans grew up watching their grandmas making quilts but who knew they’d get so valuable? If you’re willing to part with an important relic of your family history, you can look for buyers on eBay or Etsy. However, if you come across a quilt with historical significance, get it appraised by the American Quilter's Society and make some big bucks.
Cereal Boxes
From the bold and colorful graphics of the 1950s to the more whimsical and playful designs of the 1970s, cereal boxes are a reflection of the trends and attitudes of their time.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, vintage cereal boxes can also hold significant value to collectors, with rare and hard-to-find boxes fetching high prices at auction. Believe it or not, cereal aficionados out there are willing to pay more than $1,500 for vintage cereal boxes from different brands. So, if your basement clutter hides a few old cereal boxes, you might want to try your luck at selling them for a hefty price.
Prints
Fine art prints are not mere copies and can be auctioned off for high prices. In particular, prints that are signed by the artist, part of a limited edition of fewer than 200, or were challenging to produce can fetch a high price. For instance, the famous artist Pablo Picasso created a series of prints that are now worth millions of dollars.
Other artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Salvador Dali also have highly sought-after prints. Additionally, the quality of the print, such as the type of paper used and the method of printing, can impact its value. Keep an eye out for prints with these characteristics in your basement dwelling collection.
Trunks
Your basement might be hiding a treasure in the form of an old trunk. You don't need to own a Louis Vuitton piece to get a substantial amount of money for it. However, if you happen to be that lucky, it could fetch as much as $20,000.
Even if it's not a high-end designer trunk, it could still be worth a few hundred dollars. On average, French-made trunks might sell for around $2,000, while American-made trunks could go for a couple of hundred.
Hood Ornaments
The ornaments attached to the hoods of classic and luxurious cars may have significant value depending on their condition and brand. Over the years, several hood ornaments have sold for a few hundred dollars each, including a rare 1950s Pontiac Chieftain amber hood ornament for $449.
Moreover, a vintage Apperson jack rabbit radiator emblem is being sold for the asking price of $150 on eBay. For collectors, these ornaments are more than just decorative objects; they are symbols of an era and a passion for craftsmanship that is often lost in modern manufacturing.
Cowboy Hats
Apart from being a practical accessory for ranchers and rodeo, cowboy hats are a symbol of the rugged, independent spirit of the American West and the cowboy way of life. If you have some cowboy hats lying around in the basement, you might have some collectors’ items on your hands.
Vintage or rare hats fetching high prices at auction depending on the age, condition, and rarity of the hat, they can be worth thousands of dollars. Even if your cowboy hat doesn’t hold cultural significance, you can probably sell it on eBay for a few hundred dollars.
Beanie Babies
Although many people believe that Beanie Babies are worth a fortune, most of these stuffed animals are not actually worth much money today. However, some rare Beanie Babies can be worth some decent money.
Some rare Beanie Babies that collectors may be interested in include Peanut the Elephant (royal blue version), Valentino the Bear (multiple errors), and Claude the Crab (tye-dyed version). While most Beanie Babies may not be worth a lot of money, they can still hold sentimental value for those who collected them in the past.
Postcards
Do you have a bunch of old letters in your basement? The letters may not be of value but the postcards are! These small cards were originally used as a way to communicate with friends and family and to document travels and experiences.
The earliest postcards date back to the mid-19th century, and they have since become an important part of social and cultural history. Some postcards, such as those featuring famous people or places, rare stamps, or unique designs, can fetch high prices at auction or from private collectors. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the most expensive postcard ever sold went for $45,000.
Cellphones
Just like old computers, your clunky brick phone might be worth a lot of money today. If you’ve held onto those now-obsolete phones, you’re in luck. Vintage cell phones from the 1980s and 1990s are particularly sought after by collectors and can fetch high prices at auction.
For example, the first commercially available cell phone, the Motorola DynaTAC 8000X, can be worth tens of thousands of dollars if in good condition. Additionally, some limited edition or special release cellphones from popular brands like Apple or Samsung can also hold value, depending on their rarity and demand.
Glass Bottles
The glass bottles in your basement may hold immense monetary value especially if they go back to the 18th century to the mid-20th century. Such bottles come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors and their value depends on several factors, including their rarity, age, condition, and historical significance.
Some bottles are particularly sought after by collectors, such as those used for medicinal purposes, alcohol, or soda. Rare or unique bottles can fetch prices in the thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars at auctions.
Clocks
With their intricate mechanisms and unique designs, vintage clocks can be fascinating collector's items. The French Bodet flip clock is a particularly sought-after model, featuring a distinctive flip mechanism that displays the time with a satisfying click. Today, it’s selling on Etsy for $544.
Collectors appreciate the history and craftsmanship behind these clocks, as well as the artistry and innovation of their design. Also check for antique clocks and get them appraised by a professional. Perhaps you have a thousand-dollar-worth antique piece on your hands!
Coins
Was your grandpa a coin collector? You might want to sift through his collection because it may contain a million-dollar coin. Old coins are highly prized and can hold significant value due to their rarity, historical significance, and condition.
Take the Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar for example. Minted in 1794/95, this coin is one of the most sought-after ones among collectors. Its design features Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the front and a bald eagle on the back. In recent years, this coin has sold at auction for millions of dollars, making it one of the most valuable coins in the world.
Artwork
While it is unlikely that your basement clean-up will reveal a hidden masterpiece worth millions of dollars, valuable items can often be found in unexpected places. As seen on popular shows like Antiques Roadshow, old and seemingly insignificant items can hold surprising value, particularly if they have historical or cultural significance or are rare and well-preserved.
This is particularly true for art pieces, where works by well-known and lesser-known artists alike can command high prices at auction. So before discarding old paintings or artwork, it's worth having them appraised by experts to determine their potential worth. Who knows, you may have a hidden gem waiting to be discovered in your basement!
Musical Instruments
If you have an instrument that you no longer want but is still in good condition, consider selling it rather than letting it collect dust in your basement. Depending on the instrument's age, rarity, and historical significance, it could fetch a substantial sum at auction or from private collectors.
If you have an instrument that you no longer want but is still in good condition, consider selling it rather than letting it collect dust in your basement. Depending on the instrument's age, rarity, and historical significance, it could fetch a substantial sum at auction or from private collectors.
Signed Papers
Don't underestimate the value of autographed items hiding away in your basement. Whether it's a baseball signed by Babe Ruth or a book inscribed by Toni Morrison, the value of a celebrity or historical figure's signature can be substantial.
Of course, the most valuable autographs tend to be those of iconic figures like George Washington or Albert Einstein, but even lesser-known celebrities from the 20th century can command a high price for their autographs. So before you toss that old yearbook or ticket stub, be sure to check if it's been signed by anyone famous. You might be surprised at the treasure you have.
Lamps
Vintage lamps are a hot commodity, even if they don't have their original shades. It's essential to check for manufacturing labels, especially from esteemed makers like Tiffany, Stickley, Steuben, Louis Poulsen, or Stiffel. Some vintage lamps have intricate designs, hand-painted glass, or ornate metalwork that can add to their value.
Even the age of the lamp can affect its worth, with some antique lamps dating back to the early 1900s being highly sought after. Keep an eye out for any lamps that catch your eye, and if you're lucky enough to come across one made by a well-known manufacturer, it could be worth a considerable sum.
Gold Jewelry
Gold jewelry has long been prized for its beauty, durability, and inherent value. Unlike other materials, gold does not tarnish or corrode, making it an ideal choice for jewelry that is meant to last a lifetime. Beyond its functional properties, gold jewelry also holds significant symbolic and cultural value in many societies.
In addition to its sentimental value, gold jewelry can also hold significant monetary value, with prices fluctuating based on market demand and the purity and weight of the gold itself. So, wade through your grandma’s jewelry pieces and hope that your strike gold!
Costume Jewelry
Don't be fooled by the glitz and glamour of costume jewelry, it can be worth a pretty penny. The value of costume jewelry depends on its maker, materials, and craftsmanship. High-end designers such as Coco Chanel and Trifari are highly sought after and can fetch hundreds of dollars.
Despite not being made with precious stones or metals, some costume jewelry pieces were designed by renowned artists like Elsa Schiaparelli, Jean Clément, and Salvadore Dali. The unique and intricate designs of these pieces can make them incredibly valuable. You ought to keep an eye out for these hidden gems when sorting through your jewelry collection.
Furniture
Antique pieces from well-known designers like Chippendale and Eames can fetch high prices, with some sets selling for tens of thousands of dollars. But it's not just high-end names that can bring in big bucks - mid-century modern furniture and vintage pieces from the 60s and 70s are also highly sought after by collectors.
In fact, a simple IKEA Bergslagen side table can be worth nearly $3,000 if it's from a limited edition or in excellent condition. If you're unsure about the value of your old furniture, it's always a good idea to get it appraised by an expert before discarding it.
Boomboxes
If you happen to have an old boombox gathering dust in your basement, don't toss it out just yet. Even if it's not in working order, it could still be worth some big bucks. Vintage models from well-known brands like Sony, JVC, and Panasonic can sell for a few hundred dollars on eBay.
But if you're lucky enough to have a rare or highly sought-after model, such as the Sanyo M-X920K, you could make a couple of thousand dollars or more. Before you sell your vintage boombox, make sure to do some research and get it appraised to ensure you're getting a fair price.
Handwritten Notes
While a note or letter found in your basement might not be worth much in monetary value, it can hold sentimental value for you and your family. The handwriting of a loved one who has passed away can bring their memory back in a way that nothing else can.
It can be a treasured reminder of their personality, quirks, and the love they had for you. Furthermore, the contents of the letter can give insight into the past, revealing family history, stories, and connections that may have been forgotten.
Vintage Cameras
While newer models of cameras are expensive, older cameras can also be valuable. If you happen to find a Rolleiflex or Leica while rummaging through your basement, you could be in luck, as they can resell for upwards of $1,000. Even a mid-century Polaroid could get you around $100.
Brass lenses, in particular, can fetch a high price, with some selling for as much as $2,000. So, before you toss that old camera aside, consider having it appraised or selling it to a collector who can appreciate its beauty and historical significance.
Star Wars Action Figures
The Star Wars franchise has seen several revivals with new additions since its initial release in the 1970s. However, older toys remain in high demand and can be sold for high prices. For instance, a 1978 Luke Skywalker action figure, one of only about 20 in existence, sold for $25,000 a few years ago.
While you may not have such a rare piece, any older Star Wars dolls in their original packaging may still hold significant value for collectors. Other popular Star Wars toys that are sought-after by collectors include vintage Darth Vader and Boba Fett figures, and an early "Power of the Force" line from the 1990s.