Is It Trash or Treasure? Identifying the 5 Most Surprisingly Valuable Items in Your Home

Before you start tossing things out, take a second look. You might be sitting on some surprisingly valuable items. Here are five categories of common household goods that often sell for more than you'd think.

1. Vintage Pyrex and CorningWare

That floral or brightly colored casserole dish from the 70s? It's highly collectible. Certain patterns can fetch anywhere from $30 to over $100 for a single piece.

2. Old Tools and Hardware

Well-made, vintage hand tools (brands like Stanley, Craftsman) are often considered superior to modern equivalents. Even a box of old brass knobs or hinges can be a quick seller.

3. Costume Jewelry

Don't assume it's all junk. Signed pieces (look for names like Napier, Trifari, or Coro) or unique, well-made items can be very popular with collectors. Sell it as a 'lot' for best results.

4. Vintage Electronics and Media

Old turntables, receivers, video game consoles (and the games!), and even cassette tapes or vinyl records can be in high demand. Test them if you can, but sell them 'as-is' if you can't.

5. Ephemera: Old Postcards, Maps, and Manuals

That shoebox of old postcards from family vacations or the original manual for a 1960s appliance might not seem like much, but collectors of local history or specific brands will pay for these glimpses into the past.

Start cataloging your newfound treasures on DIYAuctions and see how much value is hiding in your home!