Searching for timeless pieces in thrift stores or antique shops resembles a thrilling lottery. The adage, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” holds true as individuals discard their prized possessions, creating opportunities for treasure seekers to uncover hidden gems. Secondhand shops embrace diversity, offering an eclectic range of items, from intricate jewelry boxes brimming with antique earrings to well-used treadmills. In this realm of endless possibilities, finding exceptional thrift store finds brings immense satisfaction.
With a discerning eye and knowledge of what to seek, thrifting can yield extraordinary rewards. According to Antony Charman, an antique expert and founder of Vintage Cash Cow, “There are specific items that consistently retain their value, including rare coins, antique furniture, vintage toys, and jewelry. First-edition books also command a premium, depending on their scarcity and condition, so it’s wise to keep an eye out for these treasures.”
To guide your next thrifting adventure, here are 11 items that are worthy of your attention:
1. Vintage Board Games:
Before video games and streaming platforms captivated our attention, classic board games like “Star Wars: The Queen’s Gambit” and “Clue” provided endless entertainment. If you stumble upon a stack of vintage or rare board games in good condition, they may be worth more than you imagine. Prior to purchasing, ensure all pieces are present. Keep an eye out for forgotten Milton Bradley titles such as “Fireball Island” and “Dark Tower.”
2. Rare Coins:
Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or seeking a rare find to flip and profit handsomely, it’s prudent to pay close attention to the loose change found in thrift stores and antique shops. Charman emphasizes, “The most sought-after coins are those produced in limited quantities, featuring unique designs, historical significance, or minting errors. These exceptional coins can command high prices online, with some fetching thousands of dollars. However, rarity alone does not guarantee value. Other determining factors include historical importance and the coin’s condition.”
3. Vintage China:
Vintage plates, teacups, and other china pieces are highly sought-after collectibles. Enthusiasts proudly display their elegant dinnerware in elaborate armoires and reserve them for special occasions. Acquiring a complete set can be a major coup, but even individual pieces like platters, teapots, or plates can be valuable for those seeking replacements for their cherished sets.
4. Jewelry:
Discerning fashion enthusiasts can rejoice in the discovery of high-quality rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Charman advises paying meticulous attention to the metals used to assess the potential value of your jewelry finds. “The most valuable pieces of jewelry are often the rarest, exhibiting exceptional craftsmanship. They frequently incorporate precious metals and gems, which significantly enhance their worth. The top three most valuable metals are rhodium, palladium, and gold. Surprisingly, certain costume jewelry can also command substantial value, depending on its intended use,” he explains.
5. Vintage Cookie Jars:
Porcelain vintage cookie jars come in an array of delightful shapes, colors, and sizes. Some of the rarer, more unique, and nostalgic ones can fetch hundreds of dollars from discerning collectors. Alternatively, they can serve as whimsical kitchen collectibles to add charm to your own home.
6. Vintage Consumer Electronics:
If you encounter a candlestick telephone or a Kodak Brownie camera, consider adding them to your shopping basket. These vintage consumer electronics exemplify the evolution of technology and often command a fair market value. From old video games to outdated calculators, even non-functioning electronics possess value as relics of the past.
7. Antique Furniture:
The historical narrative embedded in antique furniture is often expressed through its materials and designs. Pieces predating your grandparents’ era may be worthy of inclusion in your home collection. “The most valuable pieces of antique furniture originate from the 16th to 19th centuries, encompassing periods such as the Renaissance, Georgian, and Victorian era,” says Charman. “Furniture crafted during these times is highly prized for its intricate designs, rare materials, and historical significance. Antique furniture embodies decorative art, offering a glimpse into the history and culture of bygone eras.”
8. Depression Glass:
Manufactured and sold inexpensively in vast quantities during the 1920s and 1930s, “Depression glass,” as it is popularly known, has become highly collectible. Scour thrift stores for a variety of Depression glass, from white milk glass to iridescent carnival glass to pale green jadeite, and more.
9. Vintage Toys:
If you regret discarding your old Barbie dolls, Superman figurines, and toy cars, fret not. Redeem yourself on your next thrift store visit. “Vintage toys evoke nostalgic memories of childhood and simpler times, making them worthwhile acquisitions,” suggests Charman. “Their value appreciates over time, especially if they remain in good working condition. However, not all toys are created equal. Factors such as rarity, age, condition, and historical significance influence a toy’s value. Limited-edition items and popular film merchandise further enhance a toy’s worth.”
10. Antique Quilts:
Lovingly crafted with meticulous piecing and stitching, antique quilts are not only visually captivating and functional but also potentially valuable. These handmade blankets can easily fetch hundreds to thousands of dollars apiece, adding a touch of rustic charm to any bed or wall display.
11. Precious Metals:
Discovering precious metals in a secondhand store is like striking gold. While browsing, meticulously examine mismatched silverware, kitchen platters or serving pieces, and even bags or boxes containing costume jewelry. Look for signs of tarnish, stamped markings, and dents (sterling silver dents more easily than plated pieces).
