We all have that catch-all drawer—mine was in the kitchen, next to the telephone with its endlessly tangled cord. Over the years, it filled up with odds and ends: things I meant to use again or just couldn’t bear to toss. When I finally took a deep dive, I realized some of those overlooked bits could be worth more than a trip down memory lane. If you’ve got a drawer full of “junk,” don’t be so quick to toss it! Here are seven forgotten finds that might just be valuable currency today.
Wheat Pennies
If you grew up flipping through loose change for something special, you’ll remember wheat pennies. These copper coins, minted before 1959, were common in our piggy banks back in the day. My grandpa had a Mason jar full of them, and I always thought they were just old pennies. Turns out, some rare dates fetch $5 to $15 each—and certain ones, like the 1943 copper or 1909-S VDB, can go for hundreds. Before rolling up your spare change, take a peek—you might have a tiny treasure hiding among the dimes and nickels.
Vintage Keys
My mom’s “junk” drawer always had a tangle of mystery keys—old car, house, or even padlock keys no one could remember. In the ‘60s and ‘70s, these skeleton keys were everyday objects, but now collectors hunt for unique shapes or ones marked by defunct companies. An ornate Victorian key or an antique car key can bring $10 or more apiece at flea markets or online. If yours are especially unusual, someone may pay even more for a little slice of history. Don’t toss them just because you forgot what they open!
Unused Stamps
Remember when mailing a letter cost a quarter? Many of us still have sheets of old “Forever” stamps or commemorative issues stashed away. My own drawer had a booklet from the 1984 Olympics—never used! Collectors and crafters love vintage postage, and some rare issues bring much more than face value. Even common stamps are still worth their postage, but check before peeling and sticking—a full sheet from decades ago can sell for $10, $20, or more, depending on rarity and condition. It’s worth a quick online search before popping them on your holiday cards.
Vintage Pocket Knives
Every dad or granddad I knew carried a pocket knife. My own father had several stashed around the house—often in, you guessed it, the junk drawer. These knives, especially if they’re made by brands like Case, Buck, or Remington, can command surprising prices from collectors. Even well-loved knives from the ‘70s or ‘80s can bring $25 to $100 if they’re in good shape and have their original markings. Before you decide yours is just scrap metal, check the brand and give it a quick cleaning—there could be a story and some cash waiting.
First Edition Paperback Books
Our drawers and nightstands were always cluttered with paperback novels—my favorites were dog-eared mysteries and romance novels borrowed from friends. Some first edition paperbacks from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s are now hot collectibles, especially if the author became famous later on. For example, early Stephen King or Judy Blume books can sell for $20 to $200, depending on rarity and condition. Flip through your old reads before donating them; that tattered copy of “Carrie” might have more value than you think.
Matchbooks from Iconic Places
Back when restaurants and hotels handed out matchbooks like candy, I used to grab one everywhere I went. My parents had a whole drawerful—tiny souvenirs from Las Vegas, Route 66, and long-gone restaurants. Some of these matchbooks, especially from defunct businesses, casinos, or famous events, are collectibles now. Individual matchbooks can sell for $5 to $30, or more if exceptionally rare or tied to pop culture. Don’t dismiss this quirky memorabilia; it’s a window to the past that collectors adore.
Old Costume Jewelry
If you’ve ever sorted through a loved one’s jewelry box, you know the jumble of brooches, clip-on earrings, and rhinestone necklaces that end up in drawers. Even the “fakes”—especially signed pieces from brands like Coro, Trifari, or Sarah Coventry—are big with collectors today. A sparkly necklace you wore to prom in 1972 could fetch $25 to $150, depending on brand and condition. Before you toss anything that isn’t gold or silver, look for maker’s marks or unique designs. Some “junk” jewelry is anything but junk these days.
So the next time you’re decluttering, don’t rush to clear out that old drawer! You never know what small treasures are tucked away, carrying stories—and value—from decades past. Sometimes, the everyday items we overlook hold more worth than we realize. Happy hunting, friends—you might just fund your next family dinner with a forgotten find!
More from Vinyl and Velvet:
Leave a Reply