10 Most Valuable Antiques and Collectibles Worth Lots of Money
Collectibles are some of the priciest things people own, yet most aren’t aware that these items can fetch a good buck. If you’ve perused through your attic and found some old-fashioned pocket watches and vintage toys, among other antiques, don’t throw them away yet. These could be worth a lot of money.
Don’t be surprised to learn that a 1964 Kennedy half-dollar in your attic could sell for over $100,000.
What are some of the valuable collectibles?
You may wonder whether the old comic books in your basement can fetch a hefty amount. These and many other items are a treasure trove that can sell for good fortune. Here’s a list of other collectibles that are valuable today.
⦁ Old Coin Collection
Rare coins, such as the Barber dime produced in 1894 by the San Francisco Mint, are valuable in the industry of collectibles today. At the time, Barber dimes were only 24 pieces, making them the rarest collectible in the history of coins. Even today, you'll rarely find these coins on sale at an auction. One such coin ever auctioned was on January 7, 2016, when it fetched a whopping $1,997,500! So, if you have any, you could be unknowingly sitting on a gold mine!
If you’ve got some old currencies, coins, or banknotes from whichever country, take a good photo and put them online, or approach an auction house. It might be the time you bank a big one with no sweat!
⦁ Vintage Watches and Clocks
Owning a few old pocket watches also makes a good investment, as these can get you some good money after appraisal. Pocket watches are classic and were once held by only the affluent to display a wealthy status. They're a family heirloom passed down through generations and bear sentimental value for the bearer.
The value attached to collectible watches depends on the materials they’re made from, the model or design's scarcity, and the maker’s history. The Patek Philippe Ref. 1518, made of stainless steel, is the most expensive wristwatch ever. The watch sold for over $11 million and was the first model in Patek Phillipe’s 4-piece limited edition series.
⦁ Old Comics
Comics are also among the most valuable collectibles that you can have in your possession. However, their value can decrease tremendously even with the slightest defect. It is, therefore, crucial to keep these antiques in good condition to retain their value and obtain a fair market price from auction houses such as Ouslet Auction.
So, if you've got some old comic books, just imagine their value if you appraised them. For instance, the 1962 Amazing Fantasy Issue 15 by Marvel Comics, the last in the series, sold for $1.1 million in 2011. This copy was valuable because it contained the first Spiderman appearance in the entire Marvel universe!
⦁ Vintage Toys
How can a mere toy be bought for more money? Like pocket watches, toys hold sentimental value to the bearer, and people are willing to pay a hefty price. Also, toy collectors are among the most determined amassers who wouldn’t compromise their hobby. This fact is sufficient to give vintage toys a high monetary value.
One of the most expensive vintage toys is the G.I Joe Action Figure released by Hasbro in 1964, which sold for $200,000 in 2013.
⦁ Jewelry and Fine Art
Jewelry and fine art fall into the same category because they’re among the most personal and valuable items. Most collectors choose pieces based on personal preferences rather than market value. Yes, fine art collectors will go for the rarest piece of art or jewelry, but only if it appeals to their aesthetic style.
⦁ Antiques
Antiques such as kitchenware and furniture are also suitable investments for their owners. For instance, the 900-year-old Song dynasty bowl left the world in awe when it sold for $37.7 million at a Hong Kong auction. The value attached to the bowl was due to its rarity, age, and the kiln it was produced in.
⦁ Wine
The age of wine dictates its quality and that’s the reason why these coveted drinks fall under collectibles. If you’re a sommelier or a wine connoisseur possessing some rare wine, you stand a chance of ripping big. Don’t be surprised to find wine collectibles worth a lot of money that can pay off a mortgage.
⦁ Handbags
Do you have a well-preserved vintage handbag that you’ve thought of giving away? You might want to hold onto it because it could fetch you hundreds of thousands of dollars! One such valuable handbag is the $2 million Kelly Rose Gold, created by Hermes, a Paris-based fashion brand, in partnership with Pierce Hardy.
⦁ Minerals
Mineral stones like turquoise and aquamarines are believed to hold some calming effect and can be used as a remedy for relaxation. This practice became widespread, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. Other collectors adore them for their beauty and collect the mineral stones for display or science. One of the priciest mineral stones is amethyst auctioned for over $80,000 on Heritage Auctions.
⦁ Vintage Cars
Car collectibles are some of the most coveted as they showcase rare pioneering automotive technologies. Any vintage car with historical importance can be classified as a collectible, especially if the design is unique and eye-catching. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR ranks as the most expensive collectible car, auctioned at $142 million!
Summary
Generally, any collectible in your possession that dates back to the 1920s or later can fetch some good money. You just need to know how it’s appraised, with the assistance of professional appraisers like Ouslet Auction. Before disposing of the oldies in your attic or basement, get help from a collectibles appraiser or dealer to find their worth.