Top 11+ Collectibles Experts Say Will Be Valuable In The Future
Some items get better with age.
Whether you have an affinity for picking up sterling silver at estate sales, your grandmother has left you with a treasure trove of coins, or your parents have passed down their library of vinyl records, these collectible items might have more value than you'd guess at first sight. These are the same objects that often sit collecting dust in an attic, yet, for collectors, they're worth a pretty penny.
If you're not sure whether your collection should head to the donate pile or the auction, these experts have you covered. Here's what fine art experts, vintage aficionados, and appraisers have to say about the collectibles that have value now and will continue to maintain their value in the future.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver has inherent value simply because it's a precious metal, but that value can fluctuate day-to-day. One thing is for sure, it will always hold some monetary worth. "Sterling silver objects run the gamut, from jewelry to flatware, picture frames, thimbles, tea sets, baby rattles, and so much more," says Noralen Curl, a fine art and antiques expert and the appraisals expert at JustAnswer. She notes that you have to look for the "sterling" or 925 stamped mark to confirm authenticity, and there are sterling hallmarks that will tell you the maker.
"Full flatware sets, services for 8 or more, by esteemed makers such as Gorham, Reed and Barton, Wallace, and Towle, to name a few, can garner thousands of dollars. A small antique sewing thimble can fetch $10 - $30," says Curl.
Vintage Italian Florentine Gilded Wood Wares
In the 1950s, tourists in Italy fawned over vintage Italian Florentine gilded wood wares, and Curl notes that some collectors at the time even found them stateside at five and dime stores. Today, Florentine gilded wood is still desirable, particularly among designers. "Florentine Gilded Wood, also referred to as Italian toleware, was crafted in an array of objects, such as frames, trays, waste cans, tissue box holders, trinket boxes, bookends, magazine racks, and wall plaque shelves," says Curl. She notes that they can often be found for low prices, then resold for significantly more to collectors looking for a curated selection.
Old Books
Rare and first edition books have an enthusiastic collector base that is willing to shell out big bucks for the most desirable titles, some of which could be hiding in your own library. "My curated fine and decorative arts library, vast mystery troves, and unparalleled World War II nonfiction archive with many signed books and rare narratives—these are my legacy and, likely, my most substantial future investment," explains Callie Duritsa Boswell, an interior designer and World War II historian at Homefront Diary.
Juliana Esposito, the proprietor of The Baroque Home, adds, "Books that are leather bound with ornate gold leaf titles and/or trim are particularly valuable. Prices can skyrocket from $300 to $3,000 for first editions."
Vintage Pie Safes
Vintage pie safes are often passed down through the generations, and, while their sentimental value can't be measured, their value for collectors can reach over $500. Sara McDaniel, the owner of Simply Southern Cottage, is fortunate to have both her great grandmother’s pie safe and her granny’s dishes in her possession. "Originally my great-grandmother’s, it was in pieces and I had my carpenter put it back together. Dating around the late 1800s or early 1900s, it’s now complete with my granny’s Desert Rose dishes," says McDaniel.
Brass Bouillotte Lamps
Even if you don't know the term brass bouillotte lamp, you will probably recognize the silhoutte. These French style lamps typically have two to four brass arms that reach up to a dark, often black, metal shade. They look like something you'd find in a stately office (or a grandparents' house!). Esposito says, "These lamps were popular in the 18th and 19th century and are now going for $400-$800."
Oil Paintings
An attic full of dusty oil paintings could end up being a treasure trove for collectors who have an eye for original art, even if it doesn't come with a famous signature. Esposito explains, "Look for moody still life oil paintings or landscape paintings in ornate gilt frames. Even unsigned, these can sell for several hundred to $2,500 or more."
Vinyl Records
If you have memories of dancing around your grandparents' home to the sound of the record player, then you won't be surprised that vinyl records are one of those collectible items that can rise in value over the years. "Many older relatives still have a collection of vinyl records that they used to listen to in their younger days. Some of these records can be rare and hold significant monetary value for collectors," says Esposito.
Wristwatches
Collect something that you can actually wear day in and day out—watches are known for holding their value through the years, particularly if you splurge on one by Rolex, Cartier, or Omega. "Instead of buying a new watch, look at a vintage timepiece by Omega. My pick is their Speedmaster which was the first watch to be worn on the moon," recommends Reyne Hirsch, the owner and fine arts expert at the Dallas Auction Gallery.
Chrome Chairs
If you have an eye for midcentury design, keep an eye out for chrome frame chairs. These striking designs were all the rage in the 1950s and 1960s and, while they've been replicated by many modern manufacturers, the originals can command a high price tag. "Look for chrome chairs by Marcel Breuer or Ludwig Miles van der Rohe. They have a timeless style and can work in multiple settings," says Hirsch.
Silver Coins
Those coins your grandparents used to give you might be worth more than. you think! Coins are collectibles that have actual value associated with them, but their value on the market can far exceed their monetary value. Hirsch says, "Silver coins like American Maple Leaf, Morgan Silver Dollars, and Seated Liberty Dollars will all continue to increase in value. Make sure to search for professionally graded coins."
Contemporary Art
Your grandparents or parents may have purchased art by a rising artist, not realizing that its value significantly increased as the artist rose in prominence. If you inherit contemporary or folk art from someone in your family, it could be worth checking the signature to see whether it's now a collectors' item.
Kelly Kahn the founder of Kelly Cahn LLC: Art Advisory and Appraisals, recommends looking at works by female, Black, and Native American artists. "When acquiring work, it is important that it is accompanied by authentication documents or is included in an artist's catalogue raisonné, which documents all authenticated works by that artist," says Kahn.
