6 Ornaments in Your Parents’ Box That Are Probably Worth Money

So, you’re rummaging through your parents’ attic, and you stumble upon a dusty old box filled with ornaments and trinkets. At first glance, it seems like a bunch of forgotten knick-knacks, but wait—what if some of those pieces are actually worth a pretty penny? You might be sitting on a treasure trove of hidden gems. Let’s take a look at six types of ornaments that often go unnoticed but could be surprisingly valuable.

Photo by Andreea V

1. Vintage Christmas Ornaments

You know those glass ornaments that look like they’ve been around since the Great Depression? Well, they probably have! Vintage Christmas ornaments, especially those from the 1920s to the 1960s, can fetch anywhere from $10 to a couple hundred bucks—depending on rarity and condition. Look for unique shapes, intricate designs, or even those that come in their original boxes. Trust me, if you find a Shiny Brite or a blown-glass beauty, you might want to skip the holiday shopping this year!

2. Depression Glass

Ah, Depression glass—those colorful, translucent pieces that your grandma swore were all the rage back in her day. Made during the Great Depression, this glassware was both affordable and decorative. If you spot any plates, bowls, or even candlesticks in shades of green, pink, or amber, you might just have a small fortune on your hands. Some pieces can go for hundreds, especially if they’re rare patterns like “Cherry Blossom” or “Clover Leaf.” Just be careful; your parents might have a few pieces they still use for Sunday dinners!

3. Antique Jewelry

Let’s talk about the jewelry box that’s hiding in the corner. If you find some old brooches, necklaces, or rings, take a closer look. Depending on the age and materials, these pieces could be worth their weight in gold—literally! Vintage gold and silver jewelry, especially from well-known designers, can be highly sought after. Even if they’re not in perfect condition, sometimes the charm is in the imperfection. Just be prepared to tell a few stories about where they came from; they might have some history that’s just as valuable!

4. Porcelain Figurines

Remember those delicate porcelain figurines that seemed to be more for show than play? Well, they might actually be worth something! Brands like Lladro, Royal Doulton, or Hummel are known for their collectible figurines, some of which can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Look for those little stamps on the bottom—sometimes, a small mark can make a huge difference in value. And if you find a limited edition piece, you might just want to cradle it like a baby!

5. Vintage Toys

Who knew that the toys you played with as a kid could turn into valuable collectibles? If you come across some old action figures, board games, or even stuffed animals, you might want to check their worth. Toys from the 1980s and 1990s, especially those in their original packaging, can be surprisingly valuable. Think of the Beanie Babies craze—some went for thousands! So, before you toss that old toy truck aside, do a quick search; you might find it’s more than just a blast from the past.

6. Old Coins and Stamps

Lastly, let’s not forget about those dusty coin and stamp collections that your parents have been toting around for ages. Old coins, especially those that are rare or have historical significance, can be worth a lot more than just their face value. And stamps? Well, let’s just say that some can be worth a small fortune if they’re in mint condition. If you see a penny from 1909 or a rare stamp, you might want to get those appraised before deciding to use them as a paperweight!

Wrapping It Up

So, the next time you find yourself sifting through your parents’ boxes of memories, take a moment to appreciate the potential hidden treasures within. You never know what might be worth more than just sentimental value. Remember, it doesn’t hurt to do a little research or get a professional appraisal. And hey, if you do find something valuable, maybe treat your parents to a nice dinner or two with your newfound fortune (because let’s be real, they’ll probably want a cut!). Happy hunting, and may your attic adventures be fruitful!

Vinyl and Velvet