13 Hidden Treasures You Should Always Look For at an Estate Sale
Typically held at an estate (hence the name) after a major life event like downsizing, moving, or a death in the family, estate sales can be treasure troves for those with a keen eye. From vintage jewelry and antiques to sports memorabilia and Beanie Babies, estate sales connect us with the past by unearthing items that hold both sentimental and financial value.
So whether you’re a seasoned collector or just going for a casual shopping spree, here are 13 valuable items to keep an eye out for at estate sales, plus a few tips to help you make the most bang for your buck.
1. Vintage Jewelry
When it comes to jewelry, not all are made equal — and it’s easy to be fooled by expensive-looking jewelry that actually isn’t worth much (or anything, really). To weed out the imposters, keep an eye out for hallmarks or stamps indicating real gold, silver, or platinum. Pieces from renowned brands like Tiffany & Co. or Cartier are especially valuable. Also, don’t overlook smaller items like brooches or cufflinks, since they can be made with precious metals or gemstones and resold for a profit.
2. Vintage Tools
Vintage tools, particularly antique hand tools, are cherished for their durability and craftsmanship. Brands like Stanley, Anchor, or Disston are especially valuable and appeal to both collectors and woodworkers who prefer these quality tools to modern alternatives. Look for tools with minimal rust, intact handles, and original branding to identify the most valuable ones.
3. Beanie Babies
The Beanie Baby craze of the ’90s left behind a treasure trove of collectibles. Value hinges on rarity, condition, and whether the original Ty tag is still attached. Consider also looking for rare editions, like Princess the Bear, or errors in manufacturing, as these can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Those stored in their original glass cases will be worth the most.
4. Family Heirlooms
Family heirlooms — such as handmade quilts, engraved silverware, or antique furniture — not only offer a glimpse into the past but can also be resold for surprising amounts. They’re particularly valuable if they carry unique details like hand-stitching or monograms, or were made from rare materials. Even if they’re not in perfect condition, their story and authenticity can make them highly valuable.
5. Antiques
Antique furniture, clocks, and home decor from the 18th or 19th century are hot commodities for both vintage collectors and mid-century decor enthusiasts. Items like Victorian-era mirrors, Art Deco dressers, or mid-century modern chairs can be resold for a pretty penny. Look for pieces with original finishes, intricate carvings, and minimal restoration. And when in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask questions about an item’s origin; provenance can help boost an item’s worth.
6. Vinyl Records
Vinyl records have made an impressive comeback in recent years as more people are drawn to the rich and warmer sound quality of analog music. Compared to digital alternatives like Spotify, first editions or rare pressings of vinyl albums by acclaimed artists like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, or Led Zeppelin have soared in value today. A nifty trick is to look for albums that feature unique cover art or have a “limited edition” label on them.
To ensure you’re getting the real deal, remember to always check the condition of both the record and its sleeve, since scratches or tears can drastically reduce value and affect sound quality.
7. Artwork
Original paintings, prints, or sculptures by well-known artists can be another lucrative find. Look up the artist first to determine if their work is worth anything, and keep an eye out for things like certificates or gallery labels to verify authenticity. Even unsigned pieces can be rare gems if they’re well-executed or come from a specific era. Lastly, don’t overlook smaller artwork as these can be equally as valuable (if not more) than larger pieces.
8. Vintage Clothing
Designer vintage clothing from brands like Chanel, Dior, or Yves Saint Laurent reflect changing fashion trends and can be a gold mine among collectors and fashionistas. Look for unique patterns, high-quality fabrics, and intact stitching to identify the most valuable items — and keep in mind that accessories like handbags, scarves, or hats (especially if they are tied to famous people) can also be highly lucrative when resold.
9. Books
First editions or signed copies of classic literature aren’t just exceptionally rare — they can be resold for thousands of dollars, as evidenced by this signed copy of “A Farewell to Arms” that’s listed for over $7,000. Keep an eye out for books by acclaimed authors like Hemingway, Fitzgerald, or Tolkien, and check for rarity, condition, and any inscriptions or signatures.
Dust jackets, if present and intact, can significantly boost a book’s value — and even lesser-known titles can be worth a lot if they were part of a limited print run.
10. Coins and Currency
Rare or historical coins and bills can be worth far more than their face value. Look for mint marks, dates, and condition to determine their worth, and keep an eye out for coins from specific eras (think Roman or Civil War-era currency). Paper money with unique serial numbers or errors can also fetch high prices.
11. Cameras and Lenses
Old school cameras from brands like Leica, Nikon, or Rolleiflex are hot commodities for both photography enthusiasts and collectors of vintage tech. As a general rule of thumb, the more original and complete the camera is, the higher its value will be. Look for models that come with their original lenses, cases, and even instruction manuals, as these accessories can boost their worth. Cameras in working condition will be most valuable, but even non-functioning models can resell for high hundreds.
Remember to also pay attention to the condition and look for any scratches, dents, or fungus (yuck!) inside the lens.
12. Pottery and Ceramics
Pottery and ceramics from renowned makers like Rookwood, Roseville, or Wedgwood are beloved by collectors for their artistry, craftsmanship, and historical significance (not to mention their nostalgic appeal). Key details to look for include maker’s marks, distinctive glazes, and intricate designs that reflect the era in which they were created.
13. Toys and Games
Vintage toys like board games and mini figurines (especially those still in their original packaging) can be incredibly valuable and nostalgic. Keep an eye out for brands like LEGO, Barbie, or Hot Wheels, and check for rarity and condition. Action figures from popular franchises like “Star Wars” and G.I. Joe are also super popular and sought-after.
Vintage board games from the early 20th century — especially those with all their pieces intact — can also fetch high prices.