15 Antique Tools That Could Turn Your Workshop Into a Gold Mine
Much like vintage electronics and board games, vintage tools are more than just relics of the past — they can also be resold for surprising amounts. While not every screwdriver or hammer will be worth a lot, some of these historical tools were built to last generations, and can fetch impressive prices (as in high hundreds, or even thousands).
From 19th-century wrenches and saws to hand-forged pieces linked to iconic brands, here are 15 rare antique tools that might be worth a small fortune.
1. Millers Falls: No. 2 Eggbeater Drill
This compact, hand-cranked drill from the early 20th century is another favorite among collectors. Its durable build, combined with the unique “eggbeater” mechanism, made it a standout piece of tool history. Rare models in good or mint condition, especially those with original paint and decals still intact, can fetch prices ranging from around $150 to over $200.
2. Stanley No. 1: Smooth Plane
This highly sought-after plane was manufactured by Stanley in the late 19th to early 20th century. Its compact design, paired with the renowned craftsmanship of Stanley, makes it rare and valuable, especially when found in good condition. Prices can range from anywhere in the high hundreds to over $1,000.
3. Norris A1: Smoothing Plane
The Norris A1 is known for its high quality and adjustable mechanism, making it a favorite among vintage tool enthusiasts. This plane, which was was produced in England, remains popular for its durability and precision. An original, well-preserved Norris A1 can fetch anywhere from $1,000 to over $2,000 — and even more if it includes all original parts and features.
4. Norris: No. 5 Infill Smooth Plane
Made by the renowned British toolmaker Norris in the 19th and early 20th centuries, these adjustable infill planes are celebrated for their precision engineering and fine brass detailing. Their rarity and reputation for being exceptionally durable make them a favorite among collectors, with well-kept models listing for about $250 on eBay).
5. Bridge City Tool Works: CT-17 Dual-Axis Plane
This limited-edition plane is known for its high craftsmanship and was made by Bridge City Tool Works — a brand that’s celebrated for its cutting-edge innovation. Considered both functional and beautiful, it is often seen as more of a collector’s item than a practical tool. Listed at over $1,500, the CT-17 is rare find that combines engineering with artistic design.
6. Millers Falls: No. 42 Acme Saw
This vintage saw was designed with Acme’s patented adjustments for greater accuracy. Originally crafted in the early 1900s, the No. 42 saw is a prized tool for both collectors and vintage woodworking enthusiasts. It lists for around $200 or more, depending on the condition and rarity.
7. Disston & Sons: No. 12 Hand Saw
Known as the “flagship model” of hand saws, the Disston No. 12 features a carved applewood handle and a straight-back blade made of extra-tempered steel. This saw was produced in the late 1800s, and is adored by woodworking enthusiasts for its smooth cutting abilities and superior craftsmanship. It can fetch upwards of $600 in excellent condition.
8. Stanley: Bedrock Planes
Stanley Bedrock planes, which are renowned for their sturdiness, are considered a favorite among woodworkers. Produced between the late 1800s and early 1900s, the No. 605 plane is valued for its robust, adjustable design. Some models, like the Bedrock No. 605, are listed for roughly $250.
9. Lindley & Morse: Shipbuilders’ Adze
Used in ship-building during the 18th and 19th centuries, these adzes were hand-forged and designed for shaping wooden hulls. Their historical connection to maritime craftsmanship and their scarcity today make them ultra-rare and valuable. In good condition, you can expect to pay over $200 for one of these historical relics.
10. Spiers & Sons: Infill Plane
Scottish brand Spiers & Sons is known for creating quality infill planes that are now valuable among collectors. Renowned for their heavy, stable bodies and their ability to deliver fine, precise work, these planes can fetch prices upwards of $200.
11. Winchester: Wrenches
Produced by the famous firearm company, Winchester wrenches are valued for their unique branding and historical appeal. These wrenches are now considered rare among collectors and list for around $100.
12. Goodell-Pratt: Hand Drills
Goodell-Pratt hand drills were famous in the early 20th century and are known for their exceptional quality. Though their engineering and design were viewed as cutting-edge at the time, they’re now considered vintage collectibles thanks to the rise of power drills and other modern tools. Still, these hand drills can fetch modest prices (over $100) depending on the model and condition.
13. Keen Kutter: Axes
Keen Kutter crafts tools that are now collectibles due to their superior steel quality and rugged durability. These axes, originally made for heavy-duty use, have become valuable vintage items for both collectors and outdoor enthusiasts. A rare model in good condition can list for around $300.
14. Stanley: No. 444 Dovetail Plane
The Stanley No. 444 is a specialized plane designed for cutting dovetails, which makes it both unique and challenging to find. Manufactured in limited quantities, it’s prized among woodworkers and collectors for its sturdiness and intricate design. You can find listings on eBay for around $400.
15. Anchor: Brand Ice Axe
The “Anchor” brand ice axe, crafted by the James Swan Company in the early 1900s, is a rare and durable tool known for its distinctive logo, quality steel, and rugged design. Originally used for cutting and transporting ice, these axes have become collectors’ items due to their historical relevance. You can find a vintage ice axe in good condition listed for over $800, especially if it retains the original handle and markings.