11 Ordinary Things That Might Be Worth a Fortune Someday
It’s hard to predict the future. We all know that vintage figurines and old stamps are collectors’ items now, but who knows what could be deemed valuable in a couple decades? Still, it’s fun to imagine how some of today’s popular toys, technology, and even grocery bags might someday be worth thousands on eBay. After all, did Barbie’s original audience ever think those dolls might be future collectibles?
We put on our fortune teller’s hat to imagine what modern items might be worth big bucks in the future. Got any other ideas? Let us know in the comments!
1. LEGO Sets
As popular as LEGO sets are right now, they could be even more coveted in the future — especially limited-edition versions. Sets like the original Millennium Falcon series are already considered a prized possession, and could be worth even more money in the coming decades. One way to make sure they retain their worth: Don’t lose any pieces.
2. YETI Coolers and Tumblers
Built to last and sporting a timeless design, YETI coolers and tumblers are going to be around for a while. Today’s models may be deemed “vintage” at one point, so it’d be wise to hold onto the coolers and cups you already have.
3. Reusable Shopping Bags
OK, hear us out. Those branded bags from Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and other grocery stores may one day command serious dough on eBay (if eBay is even around). Even the reusable paper bag from Louis Vuitton is already seeing interest on eBay.
4. First Generation Smart Devices
In a world where a new iPhone version comes out every year, it’s hard to imagine that anyone has held on to their first generation iPhone. But these types of original smart devices, from smart phones to the Apple watch to the Amazon Echo, will someday serve as an important (and valuable) part of tech history.
5. VR Headsets
VR isn’t going anywhere, but VR headsets may look very different a few years from now. Hold on to your Meta Quest — it could be worth thousands in the future.
6. Instant Film Cameras and Accessories
What’s old is new again, at least when it comes to analog photography. Modern Polaroid and Fujifilm Instax cameras are having a moment, and new iterations of equipment could very well be worth a fortune in the future. If you have limited-edition cameras or discontinued film types, be sure to hang on to those.
7. Stanley Tumblers
We’re not sure how or why Stanley tumblers became such a thing, but there’s already a fan base dedicated to collecting them. Given that a Stanley Quencher is currently around $35, the value of these glorified water bottles could skyrocket in the coming decades.
8. First Editions or Signed Copies of Contemporary Books
If you managed to snag a first edition Harry Potter or have a signed copy of a Stephen King novel, you might be sitting on a gold mine. Many mass market books print millions of first copies, so the value of a first edition book isn’t as much as it was decades ago. But for books written by popular authors or a series that will withstand the test of time, it’d be wise to hold on to your copy.
9. High-Quality Kitchen Appliances
Vintage kitchenware is already a hot commodity, whether it’s a cast iron skillet or an old KitchenAid mixer. Believe it or not, your Instant Pot, air fryer, or fancy espresso machine may someday be deemed “vintage.”
10. Funko Pop! Figures
Like Beanie Babies and Barbies from decades ago, Funko Pop! figures are having a moment. Their popularity today could be an indication that they’ll be worth far more down the line. If you picked up one of these adorable figurines for a child or grandchild, consider stocking up on a few for yourself as an investment.
11. Cereal Boxes
Believe it or not, old cereal boxes already have a cult following among collectors. Today’s special-edition cereals, like ones that are holiday- or character-themed, could fetch a fortune in the years to come.