17 Antique Collectibles That Could Be Worth More Than You Think

Antique collectibles can often hold more value than people expect. Many items that seem ordinary may be worth quite a bit to the right buyer. It is interesting to learn which antiques have gained value over time. Collecting antiques can be both a fun hobby and a way to find hidden treasures. These are some surprising antiques that are worth paying attention to.

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Cast Iron Toys

Cast iron toys were manufactured mainly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by companies such as Hubley and Arcade. These toys were heavy and durable, often painted with bright colors. What surprises many is the high value these toys command today, with some rare models selling for several thousand dollars. Their detailed craftsmanship and limited production runs make them desirable among collectors.

Original paint and minimal rust increase the market value significantly. Common pieces might sell for a few hundred dollars, but rare animals, cars, or mechanical toys can fetch much more. Many collectors seek these toys for their nostalgic charm and historical significance. They provide a glimpse into early American toy manufacturing.

Advertising Thermometers

Advertising thermometers were popular in the early to mid-20th century as promotional items for various companies. These thermometers often featured colorful logos and graphics related to products or services. It may be surprising that some of these thermometers now sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars due to their rarity and condition. Brands such as Coca-Cola, Texaco, and Pepsi are commonly seen on collectible thermometers.

The appeal lies in their nostalgic advertising and functional design. Thermometers made from porcelain or metal with intact paint are the most valuable. Collectors prize those that represent well-known companies or have unique artwork. They are often displayed as part of vintage advertising collections.

Depression Glass

Depression glass was produced mainly during the 1920s and 1930s in the United States. This inexpensive glassware was given away or sold cheaply during the Great Depression. It is surprising how much some patterns and colors of this glassware have increased in value. Rare colors like cobalt blue or certain patterns can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Collectors appreciate the history behind this affordable glass and its bright colors. Sets that are complete and free from chips are highly desired. Some pieces come with distinctive patterns that make them easy to identify. Depression glass reflects a difficult era but also creativity in design.

Cameo Jewelry

Cameos have been crafted for centuries, with many antique pieces dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These small carved portraits or scenes are often made from shell or stone. It is surprising how much value some antique cameos hold, especially those with intricate carving and signed by well-known artists. Prices for rare cameos can reach several thousand dollars.

Collectors are drawn to the detail and elegance of these wearable artworks. Authenticity is important, with older cameos usually hand-carved rather than machine-made. Cameos set in gold or with historical provenance tend to be more valuable. Many collectors enjoy their artistic and sentimental qualities.

Mechanical Banks

Mechanical banks were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, designed to encourage saving money with fun, moving parts. Made primarily from cast iron, these banks often depict humorous or historical scenes. It may be surprising how collectible these banks have become, with some rare models selling for thousands of dollars. Their value comes from both the mechanics and condition.

Collectors seek fully functional banks with original paint. Models that feature racial caricatures or the “Tammany” banks are famous but  controversial today. Museums and collectors appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural history these items represent. They are a unique type of antique toy.

Art Nouveau Glassware

Art Nouveau glassware dates from the late 1800s to early 1900s, characterized by flowing, organic shapes. Famous creators include Émile Gallé and the Daum brothers in France. It is surprising how some of these pieces have appreciated in value, with fine examples selling for tens of thousands of dollars. The beauty and artistic expression make these pieces highly collectible.

Collectors value original signatures and intricate designs. Popular items include vases, bowls, and lamps. Many pieces were made in limited quantities, adding to their rarity. The style represents a significant period in decorative arts history.

Marble Statues

Marble statues from the 18th and 19th centuries were created by various European sculptors. These statues can range from small figurines to life-size works. It may surprise some to learn that many antique marble statues have high market values, often tens of thousands of dollars. The quality of the carving and the artist’s reputation influence the price.

Collectors and art enthusiasts appreciate the skill required to create these pieces. Some statues come with documentation or provenance that adds to their worth. Marble statues also represent a classic aesthetic found in many historic homes. Condition and authenticity are key for collectors.

Antique Clocks

Antique clocks were made from the 17th century onwards by various clockmakers in Europe and America. Styles range from mantel clocks to large grandfather clocks. It is surprising how much some clocks can be worth, with rare or early pieces selling for thousands. Precision and decoration play important roles in their value.

Collectors look for working mechanisms and original parts. Brands like Howard Miller and Seth Thomas are well-known. Clocks with detailed woodwork or unique features tend to attract more buyers. Restored clocks may have lower values than untouched originals.

Vintage Cameras

Vintage cameras from the early 1900s were produced by companies such as Kodak and Leica. These cameras are often mechanical and designed for film photography. It may surprise many that some models now sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars. The rarity and condition of the camera influence the price.

Collectors prize cameras with original lenses and cases. Early models with unique designs are especially sought after. Cameras from limited editions or famous brands can be highly valuable. Many collectors appreciate their historical significance in photography.

Old Books

Old books from the 16th century onwards can be surprisingly valuable. Some editions, especially first printings by famous authors like Shakespeare or Dickens, are rare. The market value of these books can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars for very rare copies. Condition, binding, and provenance are critical factors.

Collectors often seek books with original covers and minimal damage. Signed or annotated copies may increase in value. Books that shaped literature or history attract a wide audience. Preservation of these items is important for maintaining value.

Vintage Board Games

Board games made in the early to mid-20th century by companies such as Parker Brothers are collectible. These games reflect the social culture of their time and often feature hand-drawn artwork. It is surprising how some rare board games now fetch high prices, sometimes thousands of dollars. Limited editions or unopened boxes are especially valuable.

Collectors value games in good condition with all pieces included. Some games have been re-released, but original editions remain prized. These games also offer nostalgia for many players. The rarity and popularity of certain themes affect market value.

Railroad Lanterns

Railroad lanterns were used from the late 1800s through the early 1900s by railroad workers for signaling. These lanterns were made by companies such as Dietz and Adams & Westlake. It may surprise some to know these lanterns are valuable collectibles today, often selling for hundreds or thousands. The condition of the glass and metal is important.

Collectors seek lanterns with original parts and minimal rust. Different colors and styles indicate their purpose on the railroad. Lanterns with maker’s marks or patent dates can be more valuable. They represent an important piece of transportation history.

Vintage Jewelry Boxes

Jewelry boxes from the 19th and early 20th centuries were made of wood, metal, or porcelain. These boxes were often handcrafted and decorated with intricate designs. It may be surprising how much some antique jewelry boxes sell for, sometimes thousands of dollars. Their beauty and craftsmanship attract collectors.

Collectors prefer boxes with original hardware and undamaged interiors. Some jewelry boxes include hidden compartments or mirrors. Provenance or connection to famous owners may increase value. They serve as decorative and functional antiques.

Sewing Machines

Early sewing machines from the mid-1800s were produced by companies like Singer and Wheeler & Wilson. These machines were mechanical and often decorated with ornate designs. It is surprising how valuable some early models are today, with prices reaching into the thousands. Their historical role in home sewing adds interest.

Collectors look for machines in working order with original decals. Some rare models were made in limited runs. Sewing machines represent an important step in industrial history. Restored machines may have less value than those in original condition.

Vintage Perfume Bottles

Perfume bottles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries were crafted by glassmakers such as Lalique and Baccarat. These bottles often feature artistic designs and fine glasswork. It may surprise many how valuable some antique perfume bottles can be, with prices in the thousands. The beauty and rarity make them collectible.

Collectors prefer bottles with original stoppers and labels. Limited edition or artist-signed bottles are highly prized. Perfume bottles also reflect fashion and luxury trends of their time. Condition is critical in determining value.

Porcelain Dolls

Porcelain dolls were popular from the mid-1800s to early 1900s, produced by manufacturers in Germany and France. These dolls often have hand-painted faces and cloth bodies. It is surprising how valuable some antique dolls are, especially those in excellent condition. Prices can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Collectors seek dolls with original clothing and markings. Dolls made by well-known makers like Kestner are especially valuable. These dolls represent childhood and craftsmanship of the past. They are popular among both doll collectors and antique enthusiasts.

Vintage Advertising Signs

Vintage advertising signs from the early 20th century were made by companies promoting products like gas, soda, and cigarettes. Signs were often made of metal and painted with bright colors. It may surprise some how valuable these signs have become, with some selling for tens of thousands. The graphics and nostalgia drive their appeal.

Collectors prize signs that are well preserved with original paint. Rare brands and limited print runs increase value. Advertising signs offer a glimpse into past marketing styles. They make striking decorative pieces today.

Many antique collectibles are more valuable than people often think, combining rich history with the chance for investment. Discovering these unexpected treasures can be enjoyable for both collectors and enthusiasts. Knowing the background and rarity of each piece helps reveal its true value. Whether you are experienced or just beginning, antiques provide a meaningful connection to earlier times.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.