Thrift Store Gold Mines

Retro kitchen appliances are making a serious comeback—not just as decor, but as valuable collectibles. From colorful mixers to old-school toasters, many of these vintage gadgets are fetching big bucks today. Whether it’s the brand, condition, or color (yes, avocado green matters), collectors can’t get enough. Here are 25 retro kitchen appliances that are now worth collecting—and possibly cashing in on.

KitchenAid Model 'K' Mixer (1930s–50s)

This early stand mixer helped launch KitchenAid’s fame. If you have one in working condition—especially in a rare color—it could be worth a small fortune.Estimated value: $1,200–$3,000+

Sunbeam Mixmaster (1930s–60s)

The iconic stand mixer of the mid-century era. Look for ones with original bowls, beaters, and chrome accents.

Estimated value: $150–$500+

Toast-O-Lator Toaster (1940s)

This space-age toaster moved the bread through a visible window. Collectors love its mechanical novelty.

Estimated value: $250–$700+

General Electric Monitor Top Refrigerator (1927–1930s)

One of the first widely sold home refrigerators. These big, round-topped beauties are now museum-level collectibles.

Estimated value: $2,000–$10,000+

Westinghouse L-5 Waffle Iron (1930s)

Stylish chrome design and Bakelite handles make this a must-have for vintage kitchen collectors.

Estimated value: $100–$400+

Vitamix Blender (1940s–60s)

Early Vitamix models were built like tanks and marketed with live demos. Collectors prize the industrial look.

Estimated value: $200–$1,000+

Dormeyer Mixwell Mixers (1950s)

This sleek mid-century mixer line was less known than KitchenAid, but collectors love its atomic-age styling.

Estimated value: $150–$500+

Hamilton Beach Milkshake Mixer (1950s)

Once used in diners across America, these chrome mixers with green or black bases are now retro icons.Estimated value: $200–$700+

Coldspot Refrigerator by Sears (1940s–50s)

Built like a tank with classic curves and chrome. Collectors love the mid-century lines and functionality.

Estimated value: $500–$2,000+

Universal Coffeematic Percolator (1950s)

Sleek and shiny electric percolators became kitchen staples in the ’50s. Working versions with boxes and manuals are a hit with collectors.

Estimated value: $75–$300+

Oster Regency Kitchen Center (1970s–80s)

A multipurpose kitchen station that did it all—blend, knead, grind. These vintage sets are growing in demand.

Estimated value: $100–$400+

Crosley Shelvador Refrigerator (1940s)

The first fridge with door shelving! That innovation alone makes it highly collectible among appliance historians.

Estimated value: $800–$3,000+

Vintage Soda Syphons (1930s–60s)

Chrome or glass soda siphons with etched logos are great display pieces—and some brands are quite rare.

Estimated value: $75–$500+

Wear-Ever Juicers (1950s)

Manual metal juicers with colorful painted finishes are highly collectible. Look for ones with original paint and no rust.

Estimated value: $50–$300+

GE Wall-Mount Can Openers (1960s)

A quirky retro gadget that’s now popular again for its futuristic, space-saving design.

Estimated value: $100–$350+

Kenmore Rotisserie Ovens (1950s–60s)

These countertop ovens were compact and chrome-heavy—perfect for mid-century fans. Original accessories boost the value.

Estimated value: $150–$600+

Electric Egg Cookers (Sunbeam, GE – 1950s–70s)

These unusual gadgets make great collectibles. Some were shaped like eggs or came in bright pastel colors.

Estimated value: $50–$250+

Bakelite Hand Mixers (1930s–40s)

Hand-crank mixers with Bakelite handles and gears are a favorite for vintage kitchen collectors.

Estimated value: $100–$300+

Hoosier Cabinets (1920s–30s)

Technically furniture, but a centerpiece of early kitchens. Complete units with flour sifters and roll-tops are highly prized.

Estimated value: $1,000–$4,000+

Early Crock-Pots (Rival – 1970s)

The original slow cooker craze began here. Early models in funky colors or floral patterns are now collectible.

Estimated value: $50–$200+

Arvin Hot Plates (1940s–50s)

These compact electric burners are favorites among tiny home and vintage lovers. Working units with chrome accents are most valued.

Estimated value: $75–$300+