60+ Types of Valuable Antiques to Look For

I’m Katherine, Here, I share my passion for collecting, exploring, and appreciating antique treasures.

Are you an antique enthusiast looking to discover valuable treasures to add to your collection? Look no further, as we’ve compiled a list of 60+ types of valuable antiques to keep an eye out for in your quest. The world of antique collecting is vast and rich in history, making it an exciting and potentially lucrative endeavor.

In this article, you’ll find a diverse range of vintage items that can fetch a pretty penny when sold, accompanied by a record of the highest price each item has ever been sold for. Alongside this, you’ll also find a valuation table to help you gauge the worth of these precious pieces. Our guide aims to be concise, highlighting the key points and providing you with a wealth of knowledge to further your passion for antiques.

As you navigate the fascinating realm of antique collecting, remember that patience and keen attention to detail can make all the difference. Keep this list handy during your hunting expeditions, and let your newfound expertise guide you in making informed decisions when choosing the most valuable gems to enrich your burgeoning collection.

Antique and Vintage Items

1. Old Antique Watch

vintage silver pocket watch with chain on gray textile background

For antique watch collectors, age, rarity, and the condition of the timepiece play vital roles in determining its value. One of the most expensive antique watches ever sold is the Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication, which was auctioned at Sotheby’s for $24 million in 2014.

Average Valuation:

Watch Age (years)ConditionPrice Range
50-100Good$1,000 – $5,000
100-200Good$5,000 – $20,000
200+Good$20,000 – $100,000

Read More: Antique Pocket Watch: Identification and Value Guide

2. Loving Cups

Porcelain loving cup for Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee (1897)
Porcelain loving cup for Queen Victoria‘s diamond jubilee (1897)

Loving cups, or ceremonial cups, can range in value based on their material and history. A notable example is the 1899 Shreve, Crump & Low Sterling Loving Cup, which was valued at $2,700.

Loving Cup Material Valuation:

MaterialPrice Range
Sterling Silver$500 – $3,000
Gold$3,000 – $10,000
Porcelain$100 – $1,000

3. Vintage Typewriter

Vintage typewriters have become popular collectibles due to their connection to famous people and unique moments in history. A significant example is the Adolf Hitler-owned Erika portable typewriter, sold by RR Auction for $39,344 in 2015.

Typewriter Age Valuation:

Model Age (years)Price Range
50-100$100 – $500
100-150$500 – $2,000
150+$2,000 – $10,000

4. Antique Oil Lamps

Close-up shot of lit vintage oil lamp standing on the table in a cafe. Warm and cozy atmosphere

Antique oil lamps are desirable for their intricate designs and unique materials. Condition and rarity play significant factors in their value. One impressive example is a 19th-century Tiffany Studios Dragonfly Lamp, which sold for $3.3 million in 2017.

Antique Lamps Valuation:

MaterialAge Range (years)Price Range
Brass50-150$100 – $1,000
Glass50-150$500 – $5,000
Porcelain50-150$1,000 – $10,000
Sterling silver50-150$5,000 – $50,000
Read More: Antique Oil Lamps: Identification & Price Guide

5. Antique Vases

Antique vases can vary in value based on factors like material, age, and the artist or maker. The record for the most expensive vase ever sold goes to an 18th-century Qianlong Chinese vase, auctioned for $85 million in 2018.

Antique Vases Valuation:

MaterialAge Range (years)Price Range
Porcelain50-150$100 – $1,000
Glass50-150$500 – $5,000
Gold50-150$1,000 – $10,000
Silver50-150$5,000 – $50,000

6. Antique Glass Decanters

sophisticated , old glasses on wine

Antique glass decanters can be valuable collectibles, and their value depends on factors such as age, condition, rarity, and design. The highest price for a 19th-century English green glass wine decanter was sold at $10,012. Here’s a valuation table for different types of antique decanters:

Decanter TypeAverage Valuation
Cut Glass Georgian$200 – $400
Victorian Colored$150 – $300
Etched Crystal$100 – $200
Art Deco$300 – $500

Read More: Antique Glass Decanters (Identification and Value Guide)

7. Antique Lunch Boxes

“A close up shot of an old rusty lunchbox, a partially opened tangerine and white blocks spelling the word lunch. Shot on an old wooden background.”

Collectors appreciate antique lunch boxes for their unique designs and nostalgic value. A 1954 Superman lunch box in mint condition was sold for $16,000. Consider the following table for valuing lunch boxes:

Lunch Box EraAverage Valuation
1950s$100 – $300
1960s$50 – $200
1970s$30 – $100
1980s$20 – $80

8. Antique Coffee Grinder

Old coffee grinder on the garden table.

Antique coffee grinders can be valuable, especially if they’re in good working condition and have the original parts. A vintage Hobart coffee grinder from the early 1900s was sold for $4,200. Check the table below for valuations:

Grinder TypeAverage Valuation
Cast Iron Wheel$300 – $500
Wall Mount$200 – $400
Box Mill$100 – $300
Arcade / Novelty$50 – $200

9. Movie Posters

Some vintage movie posters have sold for staggering amounts. For example, the rare 1932 poster for “The Mummy” fetched $453,500 in a 1997 auction at Sotheby’s in New York. Here’s a simple valuation table for movie posters:

Poster Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$10,000 – $20,000
Pre-1950, fairly rare$5,000 – $10,000
1950s-1960s, rare$1,000 – $5,000
1970s-1980s, uncommon$100 – $1,000

10. Old Magazines

Vintage magazines can also be quite valuable, especially if they feature iconic covers or important historical events. A copy of the first issue of Playboy, featuring Marilyn Monroe, sold for $25,000 at a 2017 auction.

Magazine Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$1,000 – $5,000
Pre-1950, fairly rare$500 – $1,000
1950s-1960s, rare$50 – $500
1970s-1980s, uncommon$10 – $50

11. Vintage Cereal Boxes

Collectors find great value in vintage cereal boxes, especially those featuring popular characters or unique promotions. A 1967 Laughs Kellogg’s Cereal box featuring Roger Moore as James Bond sold for $550 on eBay.

Cereal Box Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$1,500 – $2,500
Pre-1950, fairly rare$750 – $1,500
1950s-1960s, rare$100 – $500
1970s-1980s, uncommon$10 – $100

12. Board Games

traditional legacy of the ancient board game on wooden background in vintage style

Rare antique board games can fetch quite a price. A limited edition Game of Goose from 1850 sold in a Christie’s auction for $13,800 in 2010.

Board Game Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$2,000 – $5,000
Pre-1950, fairly rare$1,000 – $2,000
1950s-1960s, rare$100 – $1,000
1970s-1980s, uncommon$20 – $100

13. Novelty Barware

Antique and vintage novelty barware can bring in high prices. A unique 1934 Art Deco cocktail shaker sold for $21,600 in a 2015 auction.

Barware Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$2,000 – $4,000
Pre-1950, fairly rare$800 – $2,000
1950s-1960s, rare$100 – $800
1970s-1980s, uncommon$20 – $100

Read More: Antique Glass Decanters (Identification and Value Guide)

14. Hunting Decoys

Vintage Hand Painted Miniature Wood Duck Decoys, 1990s

Hunting decoys can be quite valuable, such as a rare pintail drake decoy by John Haynes Williams that sold for $201,250 in a 2014 auction.

Decoy Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$10,000 – $20,000
Pre-1950, fairly rare$5,000 – $10,000
1950s-1960s, rare$1,000 – $5,000
1970s-1980s, uncommon$100 – $1,000

15. Antique Barber Chairs

Antique barber chairs can be worth a significant amount, such as a rare 19th-century carved oak and leather chair that sold for $18,000 in a 2016 auction.

Barber Chair Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$8,000 – $15,000
Pre-1950, fairly rare$3,000 – $8,000
1950s-1960s, rare$1,000 – $3,000
1970s-1980s, uncommon$100 – $1,000

16. Antique Football Memorabilia

Antique football memorabilia can be worth a fortune, like a Johnny Unitas jersey from 1967 that sold for $103,500 at auction in 2015.

Memorabilia Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$5,000 – $10,000
Pre-1950, fairly rare$2,000 – $5,000
1950s-1960s, rare$500 – $2,000
1970s-1980s, uncommon$50 – $500

17. Old Rugs

geometric pattern old Persian carpet closeup

Old rugs, specifically those handwoven by renowned artisans, can be extremely valuable. In 2013, a Persian carpet sold for a record-breaking $33.7 million at Sotheby’s New York.

Rug Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1900, very rare$20,000 – $50,000
Pre-1900, fairly rare$10,000 – $20,000
1900-1950s, rare$1,000 – $10,000
1950s-1980s, uncommon$100 – $1,000

18. Vending and Arcade Machines

Antique vending and arcade machines can also be quite valuable, like a vintage Pepsi machine that was sold for $3,000.

Machine Age and RarityAverage Valuation
Pre-1950, very rare$5,000 – $10,000
Pre-1950, fairly rare$3,000 – $5,000
1950s-1960s, rare$500 – $3,000
1970s-1980s, uncommon$100 – $500

19. Old Wooden Chests

Three old chest in a carriage in sepia

In 2015, an antique 16th-century carved oak cassone sold for £13,145 at Christies. These decorative and functional chests can vary greatly in value depending on factors such as age, origin, and condition.

Chest TypeAverage Valuation
Carved Oak Cassone$3,000 – $4,000
Early American$500 – $1,000
Victorian Walnut or Mahogany$300 – $500
Painted Scandinavian$250 – $400

20. Vintage Christmas Ornaments

A rare early 1900s German kugel ornament sold for $18,000 in 2016. Vintage ornaments may not always fetch such prices, but they can hold value for collectors.

Ornament TypeAverage Valuation
Glass Kugel$100 – $2,000
Mercury Glass$50 – $100
Dresdens$30 – $75
Shiny Brite$10 – $25

21. Old Musical Instruments

A Stradivarius violin from 1721 sold for $15.9 million in 2011. While not all instruments will bring in millions, antique and vintage instruments can still be valuable.

Instrument TypeAverage Valuation
Stradivarius Violin$1,000,000+
Gibson Les Paul Guitar$8,000 – $30,000
Steinway Grand Piano$10,000 – $50,000
Martin Acoustic Guitar$2,000 – $7,000

Read More: Vintage Mandolins (Identification & Value Guide)

Read More: Antique Piano (Brands, Identification & Value)

22. Old Jewelry

Old vintage jewelry close-up. Beads, chains, brooches. Background, wallpaper.

In 2014, a rare “Pink Star” diamond was sold for $71.2 million. While such pricing is extraordinary, vintage jewelry can still be valuable, depending on material, designer, and rarity.

Jewelry TypeAverage Valuation
Art Deco Rings$2,000 – $5,000
Vintage Rolex Watches$10,000 – $30,000
Tiffany & Co. Silver$200 – $1,000
Fine Cameo Brooches$50 – $200

Read More: Antique Necklace Clasps (Identification & Value Guide)

23. Old Postcards

A rare penny black with a letter from 1840 sold for $12,000. Old postcards, especially those with historical significance, may hold significant value.

Postcard TypeAverage Valuation
Real Photo$50 – $150
Holiday & Greetings$7 – $40
Advertising$25 – $100
Transportation$5 – $25

24. Antique Fishing Rods

Vintage fishing rod, reel, line and lures on an old wood background

A rare 19th-century H.S. Pinky Gillum rod sold for $10,030. Antique and vintage fishing gear can be valuable, particularly if in good condition or made by well-known craftsmen.

Fishing Rod TypeAverage Valuation
H.S. Pink’y Gillum$3,000 – $10,000
Leonard Tournament$1,500 – $3,000
Paul H. Young Co.$1,000 – $2,000
Phillipson Premium$500 – $1,000

Read More: Antique Fishing Rods (Identification & Price Guide)

25. Antique Golf Clubs

Old golf clubs on rough wooden surface

In 2016, a rare Andrew Dickson long-nose putter sold for $176,850. They can be valuable for collectors, especially if from notable makers or linked to famous golfers.

Golf Club TypeAverage Valuation
Andrew Dickson Long-nose Putter$100,000+
Tom Morris Clubs$10,000 – $25,000
Hugh Philp Long-nosed$15,000 – $30,000
Robert Forgan$1,500 – $3,000

Antique and Vintage Decor

26. Light Fixtures and Chandeliers

Chandelier hanging in front of a mirror in dining room of home. Crystals.

Antique light fixtures, especially American crystal chandeliers from around 1900, can be highly valuable. A beautiful example of one such chandelier sold for $7,500. When buying, consider the age, condition, and rarity of the piece. Keep an eye out for unique designs, fine art, and quality craftsmanship.

Highest price record: $7,500

Light fixture typeAverage Valuation
American Crystal Chandelier$2,000 – $8,000
Vintage Wall Sconce$150 – $500
Art Deco Table Lamp$300 – $1,000

27. Antique Furniture

Antique furniture store with wooden goods

Antique furniture pieces, such as Baroque-inspired furniture with stone and metal details, can appreciate significantly in value. Rarity, collectibility, heritage value, and the presence of marks or signatures can affect an item’s worth.

Highest price record: Baroque-style furniture often fetches between $10,000 and $50,000 depending on its rarity and quality.

Antique Furniture TypeAverage Valuation
Baroque Armchair$1,500 – $10,000
Ornate Mirror$300 – $4,000
Crystal Candelabra$500 – $3,000

Read More: Antique School Desks (Identification & Value Guide)

Read More: Antique Bassett Furniture (Types, Identification & Value)

Read More: Antique Trunks: (Identification & Value Guide)

Read More: Antique Rocking Chairs: Identification and Value Guide for Collectors

Read More: Antique Wood Stoves: Identification and Value Guide for Collectors

Read More: Antique Safe: History, Types, Identification and Value

Read More: Antique Dresser Styles

28. Antique Dolls, Dollhouses, Vintage Toys

group of antique dollls, on the table

The rarity, age, condition, and historical significance of antique dolls, dollhouses, and vintage toys can have a major impact on their value. Notable auction records include a French bisque doll which sold for $263,000 at a 2017 auction.

Highest price record: $263,000 for a French bisque doll

Collectible TypeAverage Valuation
French Bisque Doll$5,000 – $50,000
Antique Dollhouse$1,000 – $5,000
Vintage Toy Train Set$200 – $2,000

Read More: Antique Toy Pedal Cars (Types, Identification & Value)

Read More: Antique Teddy Bears (Identification & Value Guide)

Read More: Rare Antique Marbles Identification & Value Guide

29. Perfume Bottles, Antique Medicine Bottles, Antique Liquor Bottles, Antique Drinking Glass

Collectible glassware such as perfume bottles, medicine bottles, and liquor bottles can be quite valuable, especially when in mint condition and with their original packaging. Check for age, marks, and weight as indicators of authenticity.

Highest price record: A Lalique perfume bottle sold for $66,000 in 2011.

Glassware TypeAverage Valuation
Lalique Perfume Bottle$1,000 – $10,000
Antique Medicine Bottle$50 – $1,500
Antique Liquor Bottle$100 – $3,000

Read More: Antique Medicine Bottles

Read More: Antique Perfume Bottles

Read More: Antique Liquor Bottles

30. Old Cameras and Lenses

Old analog photo camera.

The market for old cameras and lenses depends on the model, make, functional condition, and manufacturing era. A rare Leica camera from 1923 was sold for $2.4 million in 2012.

Highest price record: $2.4 million for a 1923 Leica camera

Camera TypeAverage Valuation
Leica Camera$500 – $15,000
Rolleiflex$200 – $1,500
Nikon F$100 – $800

31. Old Clocks

beautiful antique clock on the background of the mirror

Old clocks, especially vintage and antique models, can be worth a lot of money. Their value can be influenced by factors like rarity, quality, age, and collectibility. A rare 18th-century bracket clock sold for over £3.2 million in 2016.

Highest price record: £3.2 million for an 18th-century bracket clock

Clock TypeAverage Valuation
Grandfather Clock$500 – $10,000
Mantel Clock$100 – $3,000
Vintage Wall Clock$50 – $1,500

Collectibles

32. Rare Coins

Close up view of a bag of United States vintage coins spilling out onto rustic wood

When searching for valuable antiques, rare coins can be a desirable option for collectors due to their age, rarity, and the unique moments in history they represent. Some coins, such as the 1933 Double Eagle gold coin, have fetched record-breaking prices at auctions. In 2021, a 1933 Double Eagle coin sold for $18.9 million at Sotheby’s. It’s essential to consider a coin’s condition, rarity, and historical significance when assessing its value.

Valuation Table for Rare Coins:

Coin CriteriaAverage Valuation
Mint Condition$1,000 – $5,000
Good Condition$500 – $1,000
Moderate Condition$100 – $500
Poor Conditionless than $100

33. Old Books and Comic Books

Old books and comic books can also hold significant value, especially those with first editions, rare prints, or signatures from the author/illustrator. A first-edition copy of “Action Comics #1,” which introduced Superman, sold for $3.2 million at a 2014 auction. When looking for valuable books, consider factors such as condition, rarity, and the presence of any marks or signatures.

Valuation Table for Old Books and Comic Books:

Book/Comic Book CriteriaAverage Valuation
Mint Condition$5,000 – $25,000
Good Condition$1,000 – $5,000
Moderate Condition$100 – $1,000
Poor Conditionless than $100

33. Sterling Silverware

A pile of .999 sterling silver getting ready to be taken to the refiner for cash. The price of silver is at an all time high. There are bracelets, forks,rings and cosmetic compacts in the pile

Sterling silverware, which includes antique flatware and silverplate, can also be a lucrative collectible. For example, a Chantilly silver flatware set by Gorham recently sold for $15,000 at a Heritage auction. Assessing the quality, age, and unique markings on silver items will help determine their value.

Valuation Table for Sterling Silverware:

Silverware ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint Condition$10,000 – $25,000
Good Condition$5,000 – $10,000
Moderate Condition$1,000 – $5,000
Poor Conditionless than $1,000

Read More: Antique Spoons (Identification & Price Guide)

34. Antique Sculptures

Antique sculptures are often valuable, and as an example, a sculpture made by Giacometti sold for a record-breaking price of $141.3 million at Christie’s in 2015. Here’s a valuation table for some common sculptures:

Antique Sculpture TypeAverage Valuation
Marble Bust$1,000 – $5,000
Bronze Statue$500 – $5,000
Wooden Carving$200 – $2,000
Pottery Figurine$100 – $1,000

35. Original Paintings

Original paintings can fetch impressive prices, particularly if they’re by renowned artists. For instance, a painting by Picasso, “Les Femmes d’Alger (Version ‘O’),” sold for $179.4 million at Christie’s in 2015. Here’s a valuation table for paintings:

Painting TypeAverage Valuation
Old Master$10,000 – $50,000+
Impressionist$5,000 – $25,000+
Modernist$1,000 – $10,000+
Amateur$100 – $1,000

36. Antique Vinyl Records and Players

Antique gramophone vinyl record player on wooden table

Collectible vinyl records and players, such as the original Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” can be valuable. This particular record sold for $290,500 at the 2013 Julien’s auction. Here is a list of vinyl estimates:

Vinyl ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$50 – $300
Very Good$20 – $100
Good$10 – $50
Fair$5 – $20

37. Antique Stamps

1907 postage stamp with Pacahontas.

Antique stamps are collectors’ items, and the British Guiana 1c Magenta holds the record for the highest price ever paid for a single stamp. It sold for $9.5 million at Sotheby’s in 2014. Some valuation ranges for stamps can be found below:

Stamp ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$100 – $1,000
Used$10 – $100
Damaged$1 – $10

38. Old Baseball Cards

Old baseball cards can be surprisingly valuable. The Honus Wagner T206 card set a record when it sold for $3.12 million in 2016 at Goldin Auctions. Here’s a valuation table for baseball cards:

Card ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$100 – $3,000
Very Good$50 – $500
Good$10 – $100
Poor$1 – $10

39. Fountain Pens

Classic fountain pen

Lastly, vintage fountain pens can be collectible as well. For example, a Montblanc Meisterstück 149 sold for $34,000 at a vintage pen auction. Fountain pens valuation often relies on their brand, model, materials, and condition:

Pen ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$200 – $2,000
Very Good$100 – $1,000
Good$50 – $500
Fair$10 – $100

Vintage and Antique Household Items

40. China Sets

Stacked Antique Porcelain China Set

China sets from renowned manufacturers like Wedgwood, Meissen, and Limoges can fetch high prices at auctions. A Meissen “Swan” Service porcelain dinner set sold for $1,445,000 at Sotheby’s in 2004 due to its rarity and quality.

Antique China Set Valuation

ManufacturerAverage Valuation
Wedgwood$500 – $2,000
Meissen$1,000 – $10,000
Limoges$200 – $3,000

41. Old Tools and Toolboxes

Old joinery tool box.

Quality vintage tools, like Stanley planes and Craftsman wrench sets, are sought by collectors. A Stanley No. 1 plane once sold for $12,250, marking its importance in tool history.

Tool Valuation

Tool TypeAverage Valuation
Stanley Planes$100 – $1,000
Craftsman Wrench$50 – $500
Vintage Toolboxes$20 – $300

Read More: Vintage Screwdrivers

Read More: Antique Blow Torch

Read More: Antique Shovels

42. Victorian Era Art Pottery

Roseville 1920 Victorian Era Vista Art Pottery Bowl

Pottery from notable makers like Rookwood, Grueby, and Newcomb College can be highly valuable. A unique Grueby vase sold for $165,000 in 2015 at Rago Arts and Auction Center. Condition, markings, and rarity contribute to the overall value.

Art Pottery Valuation

MakerAverage Valuation
Rookwood$300 – $15,000
Grueby$500 – $20,000
Newcomb College$250 – $10,000

43. Stained and Leaded Glass Windows

Stained glass crafters like Louis Comfort Tiffany have produced highly sought-after masterpieces. A Tiffany window fetched $370,000 in 2007 at a private sale, featuring vibrant colors and intricate designs.

Glass Window Valuation

CraftsmanAverage Valuation
Louis Comfort Tiffany$5,000 – $50,000
Handel$1,000 – $10,000
Wilkinson$500 – $5,000

44. Depression Glass

While some Depression Glass pieces can be found at a lower value, certain patterns and colors are rare and sought after. A rare “Fenton #162A Dolphin Fan” sold for $4,200 at a glass collector’s auction in 2006.

Depression Glass Valuation

PatternAverage Valuation
Carnival Glass$20 – $100
American Sweetheart$30 – $150
Royal Lace$10 – $250

45. Cast Iron Doorstops

High-quality cast iron doorstops, especially those produced by Hubley Manufacturing, are collectibles. A rare “Fish Family” doorstop sold for $5,400 in 2012 at Bertoia Auctions because of its intricate design and vibrant colors.

Cast Iron Doorstop Valuation

ProducerAverage Valuation
Hubley Manufacturing$200 – $5,000

46. Mason Jars

Shot of mason jars

Vintage Mason jars can be valuable due to their historical use for canning goods. A unique amber glass jar was sold for $30,000 in 2016 due to its age and rarity.

Mason Jar Valuation

AgeAverage Valuation
1800-1900$50 – $500
1900-1950$20 – $100

Read More: Antique Canning Jars

47. Old Shoes

Antique and vintage shoes, such as Victorian-era boots and silk slippers, can fetch high prices at auction due to their historical significance. A pair of Queen Victoria’s boots sold for £4,100 at an auction in the United Kingdom in 2009.

Old Shoe Valuation

PeriodAverage Valuation
Victorian Era$100 – $1,000
Early 20th Century$50 – $500

48. Old Clothes and Accessories

Vintage clothing, particularly from notable designers or periods, can be highly collectible. A Dior “New Look” jacket from the 1940s sold for $900 in 2018 at a vintage clothing auction.

Clothing Valuation

DesignerAverage Valuation
Dior$500 – $5,000
Chanel$300 – $3,000
Gucci$200 – $2,000

Miscellaneous Antique Items

49. Action Figures

A rare action figure can fetch a considerable sum. The highest price ever paid for one was in 2011, when a 1977 rocket-firing Kenner Star Wars Boba Fett prototype, graded AFA 85+, was sold at auction for $16,000. The action figure’s valuation table looks like this:

ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$8,000 – 10,000
Fine$5,000 – 7,000
Good$2,000 – 4,000
Poor$500 – 1,000

50. Saratoga Trunks

Saratoga Trunks from the 19th century are highly collectible. In 2017, a rare Louis Vuitton Saratoga Trunk in excellent condition sold for $23,000. The valuation table for these trunks is as follows:

ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$10,000 – 13,000
Fine$7,000 – 9,000
Good$3,000 – 6,000
Poor$500 – 2,000

51. Milk Glass Easter Eggs

Milk Glass Easter Eggs from the Victorian era can be quite valuable. In 2015, a rare blue Milk Glass Easter Egg with a painted flower sold for $3,500. The valuation table for these eggs is:

ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$2,000 – 3,000
Fine$1,000 – 2,000
Good$600 – 1,000
Poor$100 – 500

52. Yo-Yo Quilts

Yo-yo quilts have gained popularity among collectors. In 2019, a beautiful antique American quilt with vibrant fabrics and over 1,200 yo-yos sold for $1,250. The valuation table for yo-yo quilts is as follows:

ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$1,500 – 2,000
Fine$800 – 1,500
Good$300 – 800
Poor$100 – 300

53. Stetson Hats

A Stetson hat is a valuable antique item, with the highest price paid being $35,000 at auction in Texas in 2007. It was once owned by a famous cowboy, which significantly increased its value. The average valuation for Stetson Hats can vary based on factors such as condition, rarity, and provenance.

ConditionAverage Valuation
Mint$400 – $600
Good$200 – $400
Fair$100 – $200
PoorLess than $100

54. Antique Tobacco Pipes

vintage collection of tobacco pipes

Antique tobacco pipes can be quite valuable depending on their age, maker, and condition. In 2012, a rare 18th-century Meerschaum pipe was sold for $60,000 at auction in New York. Keep an eye out for valuable materials such as Meerschaum or makers like Dunhill when hunting for antique pipes.

Material / MakerAverage Valuation
Meerschaum$200 – $1000
Briar$100 – $500
Dunhill$300 – $2000
Clay$50 – $200

Read More: Antique Tobacco Pipes

55. Antique Brick

Antique bricks can be an unexpected treasure. In 2017, a unique 19th-century firebrick sold for $2,500 at an auction in Indiana. Keep in mind that bricks with specific markings, unusual shapes, or rare manufacturing origins may fetch higher values.

Brick TypeAverage Valuation
Firebrick$50 – $200
Paving Brick$20 – $100
Engraved$100 – $500
Unmarked$5 – $20

Read More: Antique Brick

56. Antique Buttons

Antique buttons can often be overlooked but can be very valuable. A set of gold and enamel buttons from the 18th century sold for $35,000 at auction in London in 2016. The value of antique buttons depends on material, designs, and rarity.

Material / DesignAverage Valuation
Metal$20 – $100
Glass$10 – $50
Enamel$50 – $200
Ivory$25 – $150

Read More: Antique Buttons

57. Antique Cufflinks

Antique cufflinks may hold surprising value. A pair of Fabergé jeweled cufflinks from the early 20th century fetched $70,000 at a Christie’s auction in 2015. When appraising cufflinks, consider factors like material, craftsmanship, and historical significance.

Material / MakerAverage Valuation
Gold$300 – $2,000
Silver$100 – $500
Fabergé$1,000 – $10,000
Enamel$50 – $300

Read More: Antique Cufflinks

58. Antique Padlocks

Viintage golden keys and unlocked padlock on a rusty metal background, escape room concept

A record for the highest price of an antique padlock was set when a rare Roman padlock sold for $10,834 at auction. The padlock was discovered in England and dated back to the 1st century AD.

Antique Padlock’s MaterialAverage Valuation
Brass$25 – $100
Iron$30 – $150
Bronze$50 – $200
Gold$200 – $500

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59. Antique Necklace Clasps

Antique necklace clasps can be a valuable collector’s item, with some fetching up to thousands of dollars. A Georgian diamond clasp sold for £28,200 at Sotheby’s auction in 2020.

Antique Necklace Clasps’ MaterialAverage Valuation
Metal$10 – $50
Sterling Silver$20 – $80
Gold-Filled$30 – $100
Gold$100 – $500

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60. Antique Trunks

Antique rusty trunk set outside on sand with dry palm trees in the background. Photographed in Pioneer Town, California.

Antique trunks are often valuable, with one Louis Vuitton trunk selling for $100,500 at a Paris auction. Trunks vary wildly in price depending on age, material, and condition.

Antique Trunk’s MaterialAverage Valuation
Wood$50 – $300
Leather$100 – $500
Canvas$100 – $500
Metal$150 – $700

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61. Antique Cut Glass

Detail of illuminated antique vase – cut glass

Antique cut glass has a unique appeal, with a high-quality piece selling for $147,000 at Sotheby’s auction in 2014.

Antique Cut Glass’s PatternAverage Valuation
Basic Patterns$50 – $150
Elaborate Patterns$100 – $400
Rare Patterns$300 – $800

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62. Antique Cast Iron Skillet

Cast Iron Skillets on Rustic Wood Table

Antique cast iron skillets have a high demand, with a rare Griswold Manufacturing Company skillet fetching $5,000 at auction.

Antique Cast Iron Skillet’s BrandAverage Valuation
Griswold$30 – $200
Wagner$20 – $150
Lodge$10 – $100

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63. Antique Safe

An antique safe made in 1875

Antique safes can be worth a considerable amount, with a rare Victorian era safe selling for $3,525 at an auction.

Antique Safe’s MaterialAverage Valuation
Wood$100 – $500
Wrought Iron$150 – $700
Steel$200 – $1,000
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64. Vintage Westinghouse Fan

Vintage Westinghouse fans are popular home decor items, with some selling for over $1,000, like a rare 1915 model that fetched $1,075 at an auction.

Vintage Westinghouse Fan’s AgeAverage Valuation
Pre-1900$100 – $500
1900-1920$50 – $200
1920-1940$30 – $150

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65. Antique Horse Bits

Bit and Bridle Hang on Wall in horse barn

Antique horse bits have a niche market, with a rare 16th-century silver bit selling for $9,488 at a London auction.

Antique Horse Bit’s MaterialAverage Valuation
Metal$10 – $60
Brass$20 – $80
Silver$30 – $150
Gold$100 – $500

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66. Antique Blow Torch

Antique Blow Torch

Antique blow torches are unique collectibles with a rare solid brass Otto Bernz blow torch selling for $800 at an auction.

Antique Blow Torch’s MaterialAverage Valuation
Copper$20 – $80
Brass$30 – $100
Iron$40 – $120
Aluminum$50 – $150
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FAQ

What types of antiques are generally valuable?

When looking for valuable antiques, keep an eye out for:

  • Furniture made of wood that’s over 100 years old
  • Rare and vintage radios from brands like Admiral, Philco, Zenith, and Nocturne
  • American crystal chandeliers from the early 1900s
  • Sterling silver flatware
  • Baseball cards, such as the Honus Wagner card from the early 1900s

How can I determine an antique’s value?

To determine the value of an antique:

  1. Research similar items to figure out what the market is like
  2. Check for rarity, age, condition, and desirability
  3. Consult an expert or appraiser for a professional opinion

What factors impact the value of an antique?

Factors that can impact an antique’s value include:

  • Rarity: The rarer an item is, the higher its value
  • Age: Older items, especially those over 100 years old, tend to be more valuable
  • Condition: Items in better condition generally command higher prices
  • Desirability: Items in demand will be worth more money than those that aren’t

How do I care for my valuable antiques?

To properly care for your valuable antiques:

  • Keep them away from direct sunlight and areas of high humidity
  • Dust them regularly with a soft cloth
  • Handle them gently to avoid damage
  • Store fragile items in a safe location

Remember, proper care and storage will help to maintain your antiques’ value over time.

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