When it comes to vintage collectibles, the kitchen is a treasure trove of collectible, nostalgic items. I’ve made a lot of money over the years reselling kitchenware that the average person overlooks while staring at the most obvious treasures. The trick in this business is to make money where no one else is looking. So, let’s discuss the 10 things in your or your relative’s kitchen that just might be worth money.
Before I get started listing BOLO items that you should be on the lookout for, I want to give you some humble advice. Always keep an open mind when treasure hunting, and don’t assume anything. The most disgusting, greasy, dusty item may turn an unprofitable treasure hunt into a “we hit the Lotto” type of vibe.
Silverware and Flatware
One thing is for sure: All kitchens have eating utensils, no matter what. The catch is that eating utensils tend to last forever, and some maintain their value quite well. Whenever you find yourself at an estate sale, yard sale, or estate auction, assume nothing about flatware. The box going for $2.00 just may be worth $200 and may not even have a drop of silver in it. I’ve sold flatware individually and as full sets; the money is there if you are willing to put in the work.
Coffee Percolators
These are almost always overlooked, and they literally always work. You do need to make sure they have all their parts, but there are only a few parts needed, and they are very easy to figure out. I buy these chrome beauties for $1 to $4 and flip them for $30–$40 with confidence.
Cast-Iron Pots and Pans
Absolutely never blow off cast iron. Even the new stuff has value used, much less the vintage and antique ones floating around in your great-aunt’s kitchen. I have made significant money reselling these and can’t stress their value enough. Most people know names like Griswold and Wagner, but there are many that require a bit of research to find their true value.
Sunbeam Mixers
Keep an eye out for old mixers. They often sell for next to nothing and can be easily flipped for $40.00 or more, especially when you have all the parts and original bowls. Many of these vintage mixers will give KitchenAid mixers a run for their money.
Glassware and Dishware
There are usually some hidden jewels in the cabinets. Make sure you investigate every bowl, dish, glass, mug, tumbler, etc., because you are almost guaranteed to find at least one vintage jewel in a kitchen. Keep an eye out for the items listed below:
- Depression glass
- Carnival glass
- Milk glass
- Vaseline glass
- Uranium glass
- Waterford crystal
- Pyrex
- Fire-King
- Anchor Hocking
- Royal Doulton
- Lenox
- Limoges
- Royal Copenhagen
- Blue Willow
- Flow Blue
- Transferware
- Ironstone
- Nippon porcelain
Spice Tins
I love finding vintage and antique spice tins. I must admit that just because you find an old spice tin does not mean you struck gold. Their value can range from $2 to $100. Crazy, but that’s the reality. It’s worth the effort, and to be honest, digging through old spice tins is like going back in time.
Mason Jars
These jars aren’t exactly exciting to dig through, but it’s worth the effort, especially when you run across an antique jar from the 1800s. Their value can range from $5 to $100 apiece.
Recipe Boxes and Cookbooks
One of my favorite things to grab at estate auctions is a little old recipe box. Usually, they are in boxes with handwritten recipes from the past. These are diamonds in the rough because they absolutely always sell for about $40.00. The thing that makes them special is that I usually only pay $1–$3 for them. Cookbooks are a bit tricky, but there is value in some of them if you are willing to do the research.
Advertising Tins
Keep an eye out for vintage, antique, and retro tins. These old advertising tins have value. Some more than others, but they have value nonetheless. Even reproduction tins have value. They are definitely worth the trouble, in my opinion.
Copper Molds
Yes, even the old-school molds have value. If you come across them, don’t walk away without looking them up. You just might find yourself surprised.
I hope this blog helps you in your search for hidden treasures in the kitchen. If you found this blog helpful, you may want to check out my YouTube channel, Vintage Up Finds. Until next time, happy hunting, and God bless you.
