1. Vintage Video Game Consoles
If you have an old Nintendo, Sega, or PlayStation collecting dust, it could be worth big bucks. Limited-edition models and consoles in their original packaging can sell for thousands. Even used consoles can be valuable, especially if they come with rare games or accessories. Pawn shops love them because retro gaming is booming in popularity.
Certain games are worth even more than the consoles themselves. Sealed copies of classics like Super Mario Bros. or Pokémon Red have sold for staggering amounts. Even niche games with small production runs can command high prices. Before selling, check online to see if your old games are worth more than just nostalgia.
2. First Edition Books
If you’ve got a first edition of a famous book, you might be holding a jackpot. Books like Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone or early Stephen King novels can fetch thousands. Condition matters—a pristine, signed, or hardcover copy is worth far more than a beat-up paperback. Pawn shops may not always offer top dollar, but collectors are willing to pay a premium.
Older books from the 19th and early 20th centuries can also be valuable, especially if they have original dust jackets. Even classic children’s books like Where the Wild Things Are can command serious cash. A book’s value often depends on printing errors, rare cover art, or limited releases. If you’re unsure, check for publisher markings or seek an expert appraisal.
3. Old Coins and Currency
Not all old coins are valuable, but some are worth a small fortune. Silver dollars, wheat pennies, and misprinted bills can bring in hundreds or even thousands at pawn shops. Pre-1965 U.S. coins often contain real silver, making them worth more than their face value. The older and rarer the coin, the higher the price collectors are willing to pay.
If you’ve got an uncirculated or rare mint coin, it could be worth even more. Some coins, like the 1943 copper penny or the 1913 Liberty Head nickel, have sold for millions. Even state quarters with minting errors can be surprisingly valuable. It’s always a good idea to check your pocket change before spending it.
4. Vintage Wristwatches
Old watches aren’t just for telling time—they can be serious investments. Brands like Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe are always in high demand, especially vintage models. Even lesser-known brands can be valuable if they have unique features or historical significance. Pawn shops love watches because they’re easy to resell to collectors.
Condition plays a huge role in value, so a working watch with its original parts is worth more. Limited-edition or discontinued models tend to appreciate over time. Even broken luxury watches can be worth money for their parts. If you’ve got an old watch tucked away, it might be time to cash in.
5. Antique Jewelry
Gold, silver, and gemstone jewelry can fetch a high price, especially if it’s antique or designer. Even if a piece isn’t branded, the materials alone can be worth hundreds or thousands. Victorian, Art Deco, and mid-century styles are particularly popular among collectors. Pawn shops often weigh gold and silver to determine their base value, but intricate designs can add extra worth.
Some brands, like Tiffany & Co. or Cartier, automatically command higher prices. Even costume jewelry can be valuable if it comes from sought-after designers like Trifari or Weiss. Estate sales and thrift stores sometimes have hidden gems that are worth far more than their price tag. If you’re unsure, a professional appraisal can help determine if you’ve got a treasure.
6. Old Vinyl Records
Vinyl is back in style, and some records are worth a fortune. First pressings of classic albums, rare releases, and albums from legendary artists can sell for thousands. The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and Pink Floyd records are always in demand. Even obscure punk, jazz, or blues albums can fetch high prices if they have a cult following.
Condition is everything—scratched or warped records won’t get you much. Original sleeves, inserts, and autographed copies can significantly increase value. Some records with misprints or alternate covers are particularly rare and valuable. Before selling, research your collection to see if you own a hidden gem.
7. Comic Books
If you have a box of old comic books, you might be sitting on a goldmine. First appearances of popular superheroes like Spider-Man, Batman, or the X-Men can sell for thousands. Even lesser-known comics can be valuable if they’re from the right era or have a cult following. Pawn shops often take comics, but specialized collectors will usually pay more.
Condition is key—graded comics in mint condition are worth far more. Limited print runs, variant covers, or misprints can add extra value. Even newer comics can be valuable if they feature the debut of a major character. If you suspect your collection is valuable, get it appraised before selling.
8. Vintage Pyrex Dishes
Believe it or not, old Pyrex dishes are highly collectible. Certain rare patterns from the 1950s to the 1970s can sell for hundreds of dollars per piece. Sets in mint condition, especially with lids, are even more desirable. Many collectors love the nostalgic, colorful designs and are willing to pay top dollar.
The most sought-after designs include “Lucky in Love,” “Butterprint,” and “Pink Gooseberry.” Even common patterns can have value if they’re in excellent shape. Condition matters, so chips, scratches, or fading lower the price. If you’ve got old Pyrex in your cabinets, it might be worth more than you think.
9. Rare Sneakers
Sneaker collecting has exploded, and some shoes are worth thousands. Limited-edition Nike, Adidas, and Jordan sneakers are in high demand. Even if they’re worn, rare or vintage models can still fetch a good price. Pawn shops love sneakers because resellers are always looking for exclusive drops.
Collabs with celebrities like Travis Scott or Kanye West make certain sneakers even more valuable. Deadstock (unworn) pairs in their original boxes are worth the most. Some sneakers appreciate over time, making them a solid investment. If you have a rare pair in your closet, check resale prices before letting them go.
10. Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Furniture from the 1950s and 1960s is in high demand. Brands like Eames, Knoll, and Herman Miller can sell for thousands. Even unbranded mid-century pieces can fetch a good price if they have the right look. Pawn shops may take furniture, but vintage dealers often pay more.
Original condition is key—restored or repainted pieces might lose value. Minimalist, clean-lined designs are especially popular. Even old chairs, coffee tables, and credenzas can be worth big money. If you’ve got a vintage piece, it might be time to sell.
11. Old Cameras
Film cameras are making a comeback, and certain models are worth a fortune. Leica, Nikon, and Hasselblad cameras are highly collectible. Even Polaroid cameras can be valuable if they’re rare or in great condition. Pawn shops often buy them because film photography has a loyal fanbase.
Lenses and accessories can also add to the value. Limited-production models or cameras used by professionals tend to be the most sought after. Even broken cameras can be worth something if they’re from a desirable brand. Before selling, check if your camera is a collector’s item.
12. Military Memorabilia
Old military items, especially from World War I and II, can be worth a lot. Medals, uniforms, and rare insignia are highly collectible. Items with a strong historical connection tend to fetch higher prices. Pawn shops will often buy them, but military collectors may pay more.
Authenticity is crucial—reproductions aren’t worth much. Condition and rarity determine value, so well-preserved items are the most desirable. Even documents, maps, and letters can have historical significance. If you have old military items, they could be worth more than you expect.
13. Old Toys
Vintage toys, especially from the 1980s and earlier, can be surprisingly valuable. Original Star Wars figures, Barbie dolls, and Hot Wheels cars can sell for hundreds or thousands. Pawn shops love toys in their original packaging, but even loose ones can have value. The rarer the toy, the more collectors will pay.
Limited-edition releases and factory errors are especially valuable. Toys from short-lived TV shows or franchises can also be worth a lot. Even board games and lunchboxes from decades past can have collectors eager to buy. If you have childhood toys stored away, it’s worth checking their value before selling.
14. Musical Instruments
Old instruments can be more than just sentimental keepsakes—they can be worth serious money. Vintage guitars from brands like Gibson or Fender often fetch thousands of dollars, especially rare models. Brass and woodwind instruments made by respected makers are also in demand. Pawn shops frequently buy them since musicians and collectors are always looking for quality gear.
Condition plays a huge role, but even worn instruments can hold value if they’re from a top brand. Original cases, paperwork, and limited runs can boost the price. Some instruments even increase in value as they age due to their unique sound qualities. If you’ve got a dusty guitar or trumpet in the attic, it may be time to cash in.
15. Sports Memorabilia
Old baseball cards, autographed jerseys, and signed balls can be worth thousands of dollars. Items connected to legendary athletes like Michael Jordan, Babe Ruth, or Serena Williams always attract attention. Limited-edition merchandise and game-worn gear are especially valuable. Pawn shops often take them since there’s always demand from sports fans.
Authenticity is critical, so having certificates of authenticity or provenance documents can significantly increase value. Even ticket stubs from historic games have sold for big money. The rarer and more significant the item, the more a collector is willing to pay. If you’ve got old sports keepsakes, it’s worth checking their market value.
16. Fine China and Porcelain
Old china sets from brands like Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, or Noritake can be worth far more than people realize. Complete sets in excellent condition can bring in thousands at auctions or pawn shops. Individual pieces, like teapots or serving platters, may also hold value. Collectors often look for unique patterns or discontinued designs.
Condition matters—chips, cracks, or fading can drastically reduce worth. Limited-edition or hand-painted sets tend to be especially valuable. Even family heirlooms tucked away in storage might be treasures waiting to be discovered. Before donating or giving them away, it’s smart to get them appraised.
17. Vintage Advertising Signs
Old metal or enamel advertising signs can be surprisingly valuable. Signs from classic brands like Coca-Cola, Texaco, or Pepsi are always in demand. The more vibrant the colors and the rarer the design, the higher the price. Pawn shops love them because collectors see them as pieces of Americana.
Larger signs in good condition can fetch especially high prices. Even rusted or weathered signs can be worth money if they’re authentic. Reproductions exist, so authenticity is important when assessing value. If you’ve got one hanging in the garage, it could be worth far more than you think.
18. Luxury Handbags
Designer handbags from brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès are highly collectible. Limited-edition models or discontinued designs often sell for thousands. Even used bags can command strong prices if they’re in good condition. Pawn shops readily accept them since there’s always demand in the resale market.
Original packaging, dust bags, and receipts can boost the value significantly. Rare colors or special materials make certain handbags even more desirable. Some bags, like the Hermès Birkin, have waiting lists and appreciate in value over time. If you own one, it might be more of an investment than an accessory.
19. Classic Bicycles
Vintage bicycles, especially those from the mid-20th century, are highly collectible. Brands like Schwinn, Raleigh, and Bianchi have loyal followings among cycling enthusiasts. Original paint jobs and components add to their value. Pawn shops may accept them since vintage cycling has become increasingly trendy.
Condition and rarity play huge roles in pricing. Limited-edition racing bikes or early mountain bikes can fetch serious money. Even accessories like original seats or handlebars can add to the value. If you’ve got an old bike stored away, it may be time to roll it into a shop.
20. Rare Stamps
Stamp collecting may seem old-fashioned, but rare stamps can still sell for thousands. Stamps with printing errors, limited runs, or historical significance are highly sought after. Pawn shops may not always know their exact worth, but collectors certainly do. The older and rarer the stamp, the higher its potential value.
Condition is everything—tears, fading, or heavy postmarks reduce worth. Some stamps, like the Inverted Jenny or Penny Black, are legendary among collectors. Even small stamp albums passed down through families could hide treasures. Before parting with them, it’s best to consult an expert for a proper appraisal.
This post 20 Common Items You Might Own That Could Be Worth a Fortune at a Pawn Shop was first published on American Charm.
