If you have a few old tools lying around in your garage, you might want to take a closer look at them. Some vintage tools have become surprisingly valuable, especially to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their craftsmanship and history.

Knowing which old tools could be worth a fortune can help you avoid tossing something valuable or missing out on a potential payday. Whether you’re cleaning out your garage or browsing a sale, it pays to recognize these hidden gems before they pass you by.

Stanley No. 1 Plane

If you find a Stanley No. 1 plane in your garage, you might be sitting on something pretty special. It’s Stanley’s smallest and one of the most collectible bench planes out there.

These planes were made in the late 1800s and early 1900s, so if yours is in good condition with original parts, it could be worth a few hundred dollars or more. Keep an eye out for crisp maker’s marks and original knobs—they really boost value.

Even if it’s a bit rusty, restoring a No. 1 plane can bring it back to life and add a unique piece of history to your collection.

Vintage Blacksmith Tongs

If you’ve got some old blacksmith tongs lying around, they might be worth more than you think. These tools come in various shapes and sizes, designed to grip different types of iron.

They often show signs of age, like pitting or wear, but generally remain usable. Collectors and hobbyists both find them interesting, especially if they’re in decent condition and have a bit of history. You can find similar vintage tongs on sites like eBay or Etsy, often with free shipping.

Antique Hand-Crank Drill

If you find an old hand-crank drill in your garage, it might be worth more than you think. These tools were popular before electric drills and still work surprisingly well.

Many collectors and woodworking enthusiasts look for them, especially if they’re in good condition. You can use one for small projects, or just keep it as a cool vintage piece.

They’re often sold online and at auctions, so it’s smart to check the market if you want to sell or buy.

Old Cast Iron Bench Vise

If you have an old cast iron bench vise, it might be more valuable than you think. These tools were made to last and often show up at garage sales or auctions.

The price can vary widely, typically from $10 to over $100, but rare brands or really old models can fetch higher prices.

Look for heavy-duty construction and any brand markings to help identify its age and worth. Your vintage vise could be a solid find for collectors or hobbyists.

Early 20th Century Wrenches

If you stumble upon wrenches from the early 1900s, especially those stamped with original brand logos like Snap-On or Craftsman, you might have a hidden gem. These tools were built tough and often have unique designs that collectors love.

The condition matters a lot here. Rust and wear can lower value, but well-preserved pieces from this era can fetch a decent price. Keep an eye out for rare models from the 1930s to 1950s—those are the ones that usually catch attention.

Wooden Carpenter’s Mallet

If you have a wooden carpenter’s mallet in your garage, it might be more valuable than you think. These tools were often made with quality hardwoods like beech or ash and built to last decades.

Old mallets from well-known makers or with unique designs can catch the eye of collectors. Even if your mallet looks worn, it could be worth restoring to boost its value. Keep an eye out for vintage pieces—they’re still appreciated by woodworking enthusiasts today.