10 Things Hiding in an Attic That Could Be Worth Serious Money

Most attics hold far more than just off-season decorations or forgotten keepsakes. In many homes, they’ve become storage zones for items that once seemed ordinary but now have actual resale value. Some of these are collectibles with nostalgic appeal, while others are simply hard to find in good condition.

If an attic hasn't been cleared in years, it might contain objects that are worth a second look and, in some cases, hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Vintage Train Sets and Metal Toys

Train sets made by Lionel remain popular with enthusiasts, especially those with working lights or sound. Toys made before the 1970s tend to sell better, particularly if the original box still exists. Battery-operated and die-cast metal toys also attract interest. Even well-used sets can bring in a few hundred dollars if the pieces are clean and mostly intact.

Mid-Century Tupperware Pieces

Certain Tupperware designs from the 1950s to 1970s now go for over $100. This pricing usually depends on color rarity, matching lids, or inclusion in hostess party sets. These pastel plastic containers have become notable among buyers who want vintage kitchen decor that also works.

First-Edition and Signed Books

You may not be aware yet, but books can carry significant value if they are first printings or signed by the author. People often search for well-known titles with original dust jackets and clean pages. A signed first edition copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone went for around $80,000. It helps to check copyright pages for phrases like “First Edition” or specific print numbers.

Vintage Christmas Ornaments

During the 1940s and 1950s, glass ornaments were often made in Germany or the U.S. using detailed molds and hand-painted designs. Today, collectors search for brands like Shiny Brite and early Radko pieces. Even single ornaments may earn $30 or more, based on condition and style.

Old Hand Tools with Original Handles

A quick, careful cleaning usually makes old hand tools ready for resale. Collectors prefer visible maker’s marks and working parts, so avoid heavy scrubbing that could remove those details. Skip polishing the metal too much, as signs of age can add to the appeal. Keep in mind that European-made brands tend to perform best in resale markets.

Vinyl Records and Rare Pressings

Certain records continue to attract serious buyers, especially sealed albums or pressings that never made it to wide release. One well-known example is The Black Album by Prince, which was pulled before its original release and has sold for over $10,000. Most records won’t fetch much, but those tied to music history should definitely be looked up before being donated.

Unopened Bath and Body Products

Collectors of vintage beauty items often look for discontinued scents, original packaging, and products that are still fully sealed. Some people buy them for nostalgia, while others want to complete a specific brand collection. Items with intact labels, clean bottles, and their original boxes tend to sell better. Even products from smaller or lesser-known brands can attract buyers if they’re in good condition.

Rare Pyrex and CorningWare Patterns

These dishes stand out for their long-lasting construction and distinctive prints. A few patterns have reached impressive prices, with one CorningWare piece reportedly selling for more than $3,000. If it is possible that you boxed these up and forgot about them until you cleaned the attic, it may be time to look up the pattern name or check online to determine if the dish has any resale value.

Holiday Blow Molds with Original Wiring

Various oversized plastic yard decorations, well-known in mid-century America, are now vintage collectibles. Blow molds shaped like Santas, snowmen, or jack-o'-lanterns are often priced at several hundred dollars if they still light up. Brands like Empire or General Foam once produced many of the more desirable models.

Kenner Star Wars Toys Still in Packaging

Kenner released Star Wars toys starting in 1977, and the early figures remain valuable to this day. Characters like Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, or Boba Fett can sell for hundreds if unopened. But packaging plays a major role in value. However, even loose figures may earn decent money if the paint is intact and the accessories are included.