Looking for vintage items worth money? The older, the better. Vintage items are hot! There is a global audience seeking American Vintage. Are you curious about what vintage items are worth money in 2025? Whether you have old items stored away or love searching for hidden treasures at flea markets and thrift stores, this article will give you an idea of what to look for.
From clothing and electronics to collectibles and toys, a wide variety of items can hold significant value. Let's dive in!
Vintage Clothing and Fashion
Vintage fashion is always trending, and buyers are looking for authentic vintage pieces from the '60s, '70s, '80s, ’90s, and even early 2000s (yes, that's vintage now).
To learn how to find and date vintage clothing, check out the article A Reseller’s Guide to Vintage Fashion
With fast-fashion companies mass-producing vintage-inspired clothing, shoppers want the real thing, and they’re willing to pay up for it! Selling vintage items can be extremely lucrative, and vintage clothing is readily available at most thrift stores.
💡Tip: Keep an eye out for ILGWU union labels, which indicate the piece was made between 1940 and 1980.
Some top-selling Vintage BOLO brands include Levi's, Harley Davidson, Disney, Nike, Adidas, and Ralph Lauren. Here are some of the best vintage fashion categories:
Vintage Jeans
Vintage jeans continue to be some of the most profitable pieces in the resale world, especially high-rise, rigid denim styles from the '80s and '90s. Levi's is the top performer, but buyers also love Wrangler, Lee, Guess, and Gap. Look for features like single stitch hems, orange tab Levi's, paper tags, and made in USA markings. Condition matters, but natural wear like whiskering and fading can increase value. Always check for size changes due to shrinkage and note actual measurements in your listing.
💡 Tip: Because sizes fluctuate, always include the waist measurement in your listing. Vintage jeans tagged size 14 might have a 28" waist, which would be a size 8 today.
Vintage Bags
Vintage handbags sell extremely well, especially leather styles with quality craftsmanship. Shoppers love classic silhouettes, structured frames, doctor bags, bucket bags, and mini bags from the '60s through the early 2000s. Look for genuine leather, metal zippers, unique hardware, embossed logos, and clean stitching. Vintage Coach, Dooney and Bourke, Ralph Lauren, and unbranded Italian leather bags perform very well. Clean interiors and accurate measurements help maximize your selling price.
Vintage Jewelry
Vintage jewelry is easy to source and offers high profit margins because many buyers collect specific eras and styles. Look for pieces stamped with designer marks, sterling silver, gold-filled materials, or well-made costume jewelry from brands like Monet, Trifari, Avon, and Napier. Unique earrings, brooches, cocktail rings, and enamel pieces from the '60s through '90s sell consistently. Avoid tarnish that cannot be polished out and always photograph closure types clearly. Sets or original packaging can significantly increase value.
Vintage Lingerie
Vintage lingerie is a sleeper category that performs extremely well, especially romantic slip dresses, satin nightgowns, lace robes, and bustiers. Buyers love bias cut silhouettes, pastel colors, delicate lace, and embroidered details from brands like Vanity Fair, Victoria's Secret gold label, and Olga. Look for nylon tricot fabric, union tags, and made in USA labels. Condition is key, so inspect for snags, stains, or stretched elastic. This category has a loyal following, and unique pieces can sell for a premium.
💡 Tip: Be sure you can see used undergarments on the marketplace you're listing vintage lingerie. Not all marketplaces allow it. I recommend selling on eBay, Etsy, and Depop.
Vintage Knitwear
Vintage sweaters are best sellers, especially thick wool knits, fisherman sweaters, patterned cardigans, and oversized '80s and '90s silhouettes. Look for natural fibers like wool, mohair, alpaca, and cashmere because buyers prefer high-quality materials. Bold prints, embroidered details, and unique graphics are strong performers. Fair Isle, Nordic patterns, and chunky cable knits are always in demand. Check for moth holes and pilling, and note any handmade details, which often increase desirability.
💡 Tip: If you’re selling vintage clothing that is of a well-known brand, use the brand. If the brand is uncommon, use “Vintage” or “American Vintage” as the brand to attract more buyers.
Check out these recent vintage fashion sales from @FourLimes on Poshmark 👀
Vintage Electronics and Media
Vintage electronics are incredibly collectible, and the resale market for retro devices continues to grow every year. Buyers love the nostalgia, craftsmanship, and unique functionality that older technology offers.
Many pieces that were once everyday household items are now valuable, rare, and highly sought after online. From cameras to consoles to vinyl, there are many categories worth sourcing and selling.
💡Tip: Even non-working electronics can still hold value. Collectors often purchase items for parts, repairs, or display. Be sure to include functionality transparently in your listing to avoid disputes.
Vintage Cameras
Vintage cameras are among the most profitable electronics, especially point-and-shoot digital cameras from the early 2000s and film cameras from earlier decades. Younger buyers love these for their aesthetic, grainy photo quality, and nostalgic appeal. Look for Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus, and Fujifilm models, as well as older 35mm or Polaroid cameras. Working condition increases value, but even non-working units can sell for parts. Some rare or limited models can reach into the thousands.
Retro Gaming Consoles and Games
Vintage gaming continues to be one of the strongest collector categories. Game Boys, Nintendo systems, Sega consoles, and early PlayStation devices sell quickly, especially if they include original packaging. Look for cartridge games, manuals, memory cards, and limited edition consoles. Condition and completeness matter, but parts-only systems can still perform well. Some rare Nintendo titles have sold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Vintage Audio Gear
Vintage audio equipment such as record players, Walkmans (cassette tape players), cassette decks, speakers, and early MP3 devices has a huge following. Many buyers prefer the warm, analog sound that older equipment provides. Look for recognizable brands like Sony, Technics, Panasonic, and Apple for early iPods. Record players from the 1970s and 1980s can command high prices, especially if belts, needles, and wiring are still functional. Even aesthetically pleasing units can sell for display.
Typewriters and Office Electronics
Vintage typewriters are consistently valuable because many writers, collectors, and decor enthusiasts seek them out. Look for Smith Corona, Royal, and Olivetti models, as well as units in unique colors or with glass keys. Condition affects value, but typewriters often remain functional for decades. Some models have sold for hundreds or even thousands, depending on rarity. Early office electronics, like adding machines and calculator,s can also perform well.
Computers and Tech Collectibles
Early computers and personal tech devices can be extremely valuable, especially rare Apple models. Vintage Macintosh and Apple II computers have sold for thousands at auction. Look for original accessories, functioning keyboards, and intact screens. Even early iPhones and iPods can carry strong resale value if boxed or in good condition. Always check completed sales on eBay to determine current market trends, because pricing can fluctuate significantly.
While some old electronics are virtually worthless, others might yield a small fortune! It's easy to check the value of these items using online price checkers, tools like eBay Product Research.
Vintage Collectibles
Vintage collectibles cover a wide range of categories, and many items are incredibly valuable because of their rarity, condition, and historical significance. Collectors are always searching for unique finds, especially pieces tied to sports, pop culture, holidays, and mid-century home decor. These items often appreciate over time, making them great additions to your reseller inventory.
Sports Memorabilia
Sports memorabilia is one of the strongest categories in the collectibles world, and demand remains high across generations. Look for autographed items, game-worn jerseys, trading cards, championship rings, and team-branded decor. Items tied to iconic players or winning seasons often bring premium prices.
Even vintage accessories like pennants, programs, ticket stubs, and bobbleheads can perform very well.
Trading Cards
Vintage trading cards, especially baseball cards from the late 1800s to mid-1900s, can be worth thousands. Condition, rarity, and player popularity are the key drivers of value. Rookie cards, limited editions, complete sets, and cards from defunct leagues are especially desirable. Always store cards properly to protect corners and surfaces. Even modern cards can be valuable if graded or rare.
Vintage Holiday Decor
Vintage Christmas decor, Halloween items, and mid-century holiday pieces have a huge collector following. Look for ceramic trees, blow molds, tinsel garlands, glass ornaments, and handmade ornaments from the 1940s through 1970s. Popular brands include Shiny Brite, Empire, and Bradford. Many of these items are fragile, so the condition is important. Unique colors, original boxes, or complete sets increase value.
Vintage Kitchenware and Glassware
Pyrex, Fire King, CorningWare, and mid-century glassware are top-performing categories for collectors. Retro, colorful patterns, and discontinued lines often sell for premium prices. Mixing bowls, casserole dishes, mugs, and patterned refrigerator sets are top sellers. Some rare Pyrex patterns can sell for hundreds or even thousands, depending on condition. Always check for chips, cracks, and fading.
💡Tip: If you sell vintage glass, you will want a uranium light to display with uranium pieces in your listings.
Pop Culture and Advertising Collectibles
Vintage items related to movies, music, brands, and old advertising are very desirable in the resale market. Look for tin signs, branded merchandise, concert memorabilia, movie posters, drinkware, and promotional items from the mid-1900s. Collectors love pieces tied to popular companies, classic cars, and nostalgic products. Unique graphics, bright colors, and original packaging add significant value.
Check out this blog for a list of specific pieces sure to rake in some cash: Best Comics and Collectibles to Sell on eBay
Vintage Toys & Games
Vintage toys are incredibly profitable because they combine rarity, nostalgia, and a huge collector base. Many buyers grew up with these items and are willing to pay high prices to own a piece of their childhood. From dolls to die-cast cars to action figures, the right toy can sell for hundreds or even thousands. Sourcing at yard sales, estate sales, and thrift stores can lead to major finds, especially when owners do not realize what they have.
🔦Reseller Spotlight: "I'm thrilled to say that I'm about to close my first reselling negotiation for my childhood Barbie collection of almost 100 dolls from the 90s. By organizing them, doing some research, and taking photos, I was able to determine fair prices through sites like eBay and other online marketplaces." - Valeria
Die Cast Cars and Model Vehicles
Die-cast cars like Hot Wheels, Matchbox, and early model vehicles are among the strongest performers in the vintage toy market. Rare variations, factory errors, and early editions can sell for extremely high prices. The famous 1969 Hot Wheels Pink Rear Loading Beach Bomb sold for $72,000, proving how valuable this category can be. Look for original wheels, paint, packaging, and correct markings. Even loose cars can still be worth money if they are rare.
Dolls and Figurines
Vintage dolls like Barbie, Cabbage Patch Kids, and Madame Alexander are highly collectible, especially early or limited-edition releases. A 1950s Barbie has sold for over $20,000, and certain Cabbage Patch dolls are still in demand. Condition, original outfits, and boxes dramatically increase value. Figurines from superheroes, Disney, and pop culture are also strong sellers. Almost anything featuring Mickey Mouse performs well when vintage.
Action Figures
Action figures from the 1960s through 1990s are extremely valuable because collectors look for childhood favorites and rare releases. Star Wars figures are among the most profitable, with some early or unusual pieces selling for over $10,000.
Look for intact joints, complete accessories, and original packaging. G.I. Joe, Masters of the Universe, Transformers, and Marvel figures also have strong followings. Even loose figures can be worth money if they are uncommon.
Vintage Board Games
Early edition board games appeal to both collectors and families who enjoy retro gameplay. First editions, discontinued games, and those with unique artwork often sell for premium prices. Look for complete sets with all pieces and instructions. Some rare versions can reach into the thousands. Even well-loved games from the 1970s through 1990s can sell consistently if they are clean and complete.
Toy Sets and Playsets
Vintage playsets like Polly Pocket, My Little Pony stables, Fisher Price houses, and themed toy sets have a dedicated buyer base. Collectors love sets that include small accessories or original packaging. Condition and completeness matter, but even partial sets can sell well. Look for bright colors, iconic characters, and unique molds that are no longer produced. These items are often overlooked at yard sales, making them great profit opportunities.
Vintage Media
Beyond toys and electronics, many printed and historical items hold significant resale value because collectors prize rarity, condition, and cultural importance. Coins, books, magazines, and comics can sell for impressive amounts when you know what to look for. Understanding authors, editions, print runs, and historical context will help you identify pieces worth listing.
Vintage Coins
Old coins can be extremely valuable due to rarity, metal content, and historical significance. Look for silver coins, proof sets, error coins, and limited mint releases. Condition and grading play a major role in value. Even common coins can surprise you if they feature rare dates or mint marks.
Comic Books
Vintage comic books have a massive collector base, especially early issues featuring iconic heroes. First appearances, limited editions, and well-preserved copies command strong prices. Look for Marvel, DC, and independent series from the mid twentieth century. Bagged, boarded, and graded comics always sell best.
First Edition Books
First editions are highly collectible, especially from notable authors or culturally important works. Dust jackets, original pricing, and publication details determine value. Some first editions can sell for hundreds or thousands. Always verify print status and compare to known bibliographic records.
Vintage Magazines
Older magazines such as Life, Vogue, Time, and National Geographic are popular among collectors and designers. Early issues, iconic covers, and special editions sell especially well. Condition matters, but even gently worn copies can perform well if the content or cover is historically significant.
Vintage Cookbooks
Vintage cookbooks are a surprising BOLO category because many collectors seek nostalgic or out-of-print recipes. Look for mid-century editions, regional cookbooks, community cookbooks, and famous chef publications. First editions and books with unique illustrations or binding styles often sell for premium prices.
💡 Tip: With the Google Photos app, you can search the web by image. Next time you’re out thrifting and something looks valuable, you can quickly snap a picture to find comps!
Where to Sell Vintage Clothing and Items
- eBay. If you have vintage items to sell, eBay is still the go-to platform with the most active users and a vast global audience of collectors. eBay is generally the best place to sell everything.
- Etsy. If you’re selling vintage clothing and decor, you might love Etsy’s curated market of buyers.
- Poshmark is a fashion powerhouse with one of the largest audiences specifically for fashion. Vintage is a top-selling category, and you can even list small decor on Poshmark, too!
- Facebook Marketplace is also a great marketplace, as it is essentially an online yard sale. While you might yield a slightly lower profit, you can maximize your local community and sell larger items, too!
- Depop and Grailed. For vintage clothing and accessories, Depop and Grailed are also niche marketplaces with global audiences.
- Vestiaire Collective. It is the largest global designer marketplace and the perfect place to sell vintage designer and luxury apparel.
Did you know that with Vendoo, you can crosslist to 10+ marketplaces with just a few clicks? What are you waiting for, crosslist your vintage items everywhere to maximize your exposure and profit!
Go check your attic! There might be thousands of dollars in old items that you forgot you had lying around!
Don’t forget that there are tons of valuable vintage items sitting at flea markets and thrift stores, too! With some research and a bit of luck, you might just find a vintage item worth a small fortune.
Do you have vintage items worth money? Tell us about your reselling experience!
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