For many, sifting through other people’s home goods at garage sales is almost a sport. Items like vintage advertising signs and retro video games can hold significant value for collectors. Here are the top prized items to look for at a local sale—your return on investment might just surprise you!
Vintage Advertising
Old metal or porcelain advertising signs, especially those with recognizable brand logos from the mid-20th century, can fetch a high price. Collectors appreciate these for their nostalgic value and classic designs. If in good condition, these signs can be resold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Rare Books
Stumbling upon a first-edition book at a garage sale can be like finding hidden treasure, especially if it’s a classic. These editions are highly prized by collectors, particularly if they include original dust jackets. The value can soar into the thousands if the book is a well-known title in good condition.
Comic Books
Early issues of comic books, especially those featuring first appearances of characters or key storylines, can be incredibly valuable. Many people unknowingly sell these at garage sales for mere cents or dollars. A rare comic in good condition might yield a hefty return.
Antique Jewelry
Vintage and antique jewelry can often be picked up cheaply at garage sales, overlooked by those who are unaware of their true value. Pieces featuring real gems or intricate designs from notable eras like the Art Deco period are particularly valuable. Such items, when authenticated, can fetch substantial sums at auctions or antique shops.
Retro Video Games
Classic video game cartridges or consoles from the 1980s and 1990s are highly collectible and sought after by enthusiasts. Titles from platforms like NES, Atari, or Sega that are in good working condition can command impressive prices. Rare games can sometimes sell for thousands.
Mid-Century Furniture
Mid-century furniture finds are extremely popular. Designers like Eames or Saarinen are especially sought after, and their authentic pieces can command high prices. Even less famous pieces from the era can be valuable if they’re in good condition.
Old Coins
Coins and paper money that are out of circulation can turn out to be worth much more than their face value, particularly if they’re rare or from specific historical periods. Errors on coins or rare prints on bills are particularly prized by collectors.
Collectible Toys
Original Barbie dolls, GI Joes, or Star Wars action figures from the 1970s and 1980s can be highly collectible. Their value increases if they are still in their original packaging and in mint condition. Some of these toys can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars among collectors.
Vintage Photographs
Old photographs and postcards can provide a fascinating glimpse into the past, and certain images or collections can be quite valuable. Early photos of historical events or famous locations, especially those taken by notable photographers, can be of particular interest.
Vinyl Records
Vinyl records, particularly original pressings in good condition, can be worth more than their weight in gold to collectors. Look for rare albums by popular artists, especially those that were limited runs or have since become cult classics. Some rare records are valued in the thousands.
Artwork
Original paintings and prints by recognized artists, or even undiscovered ones, can be incredibly valuable. Sometimes, sellers are unaware of the origin or worth of artwork lying around in their homes. Finding such a piece can lead to significant financial gain if it’s by a noted artist.
Quilts
Handmade quilts, made during significant historical periods, such as the Depression era, are particularly sought after. The craftsmanship and history behind these quilts make them desirable items for collectors and decorators alike.
Glassware
Depression glass, carnival glass, and other types of antique glassware found at garage sales often go unnoticed. These pieces can be quite valuable, especially if they are rare colors or patterns. Collectors are always on the lookout for such items, and they can bring in a tidy sum.
Kitchenware
Items like old Pyrex dishes, particularly those with rare patterns or colors, are popular among collectors. Some vintage kitchenware pieces can sell for hundreds of dollars if they are rare enough. Even common items in excellent condition can have a high resale value.
Old Tools
Old and antique tools are not only collectible but can also be highly functional for those interested in traditional craftsmanship. Tools made from high-quality materials and bearing the marks of respected manufacturers can command high prices.
Sports Memorabilia
Vintage baseball cards, signed sports equipment, or original game jerseys can be incredibly valuable, especially if they involve famous athletes or significant sports events. Their value increases if they are in good condition or have documentation proving their authenticity.
Decor
Christmas ornaments, handmade Halloween decorations, or Easter items from the early 20th century can command high prices. Collectors often look for pieces that evoke nostalgia and are in good condition.
Watches
Old watches can be valuable if they are rare or have mechanical movements. Collectors appreciate vintage watches for their craftsmanship. Sometimes, a watch that seems mundane at a garage sale might turn out to be a collector’s item.
Military Memorabilia
Uniforms, medals, and other military items from past conflicts can be highly collectible. Their value can be substantial, particularly if they are rare or associated with significant historical events. Collectors of military items often seek pieces with well-documented histories.
Typewriters
Vintage typewriters, especially those that are still functional or from a renowned brand like Royal or Remington, can be highly desirable. Some typewriters can fetch several hundred dollars, depending on their condition and rarity.
Board Games
Classic board games in good condition, with all their original pieces and packaging, are surprisingly valuable. Collectors and enthusiasts often pay premium prices for games that remind them of their childhoods.
Old Magazines
Collectors and historians often seek out old magazines in good condition, which can be particularly valuable if they are rare editions. They can provide a fascinating insight into the culture and events of the time.
Stamps
Old letters with rare stamps, postmarks, or historical significance can be quite valuable. Collectors often seek unique or rare items to complete their collections. The value of these items can be significantly higher than many people expect, making them a great find at garage sales.
Ceramics
Handcrafted ceramics and pottery pieces with a unique glaze or signature or that are part of a limited run are highly sought after. Such finds can often be resold to collectors or museums for a substantial return.
Antique Maps
Old maps, particularly those that detail areas that have changed significantly or that are hand-drawn, are highly collectible. Their value increases if they are rare, in good condition, or have historical importance. Maps can be an exciting discovery at garage sales.
