When you start sorting through your parents’ house, you might be surprised by the items that hold more value than you expected. Many everyday things from past decades have become sought-after by collectors and can be worth quite a bit.
Knowing what to keep can help you uncover hidden treasures without any guesswork. This guide will highlight some of the valuable things you might find, making it easier for you to decide what to hold onto as you clean out old spaces.
Vintage Royal typewriter
If you find a Royal typewriter at your parents’ house, it could be a nice piece to keep. These were popular in the early 20th century and are known for their solid build.
Some models are more valuable than others, especially the older ones. Condition matters too, so cleaner machines generally attract more interest.
Even if it’s not rare, a Royal typewriter can be a charming vintage item to display or restore. It’s a piece of office history you can hold onto.
First edition ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’
If you find a first edition of To Kill a Mockingbird at your parents’ house, it’s worth holding onto. This edition was published in 1960 and includes Harper Lee’s photo on the back of the dust jacket.
The book has a brown board with a green cloth spine. Look for the phrase “First Edition” on the copyright page and a $3.95 price on the front flap of the dust jacket.
This edition is a piece of literary history and can be valuable to collectors.
Mid-century modern Eames chair
If you find an Eames chair in your parents’ house, it’s worth keeping. These chairs, designed by Charles and Ray Eames, are known for both style and comfort.
The molded plywood base was an innovation that made these chairs unique. Original Eames Lounge Chairs can still sell for over a thousand dollars.
Even if they seem dated, these pieces hold a classic appeal that many people still appreciate today. They can add a touch of mid-century modern charm to your home.
Pyrex mixing bowl set
If you find a vintage Pyrex mixing bowl set at your parents’ house, it’s worth holding onto. These bowls, especially from the 1950s to 1980s, can sometimes be quite valuable. Sets in good condition with popular patterns like Turquoise Needlepoint or Coral Red Gooseberry may attract collectors.
Even bowls with minor signs of wear can still sell for hundreds or more. The colors and patterns make these bowls both practical and collectible. So, check the kitchen cabinets carefully—you might have a hidden gem.
Original 1959 Barbie doll
If you find an original 1959 Barbie doll at your parents’ house, it’s worth holding onto. These dolls can be quite valuable, especially if they are in good condition.
Check for unique features like specific body markings, eye color, and the style of clothing to verify authenticity.
Depending on the model and condition, these Barbies can be worth several thousand dollars. Even a well-kept one could bring in a decent amount if you ever decide to sell it.
Early Apple Macintosh computer
If you find an early Apple Macintosh in your parents’ house, it’s worth holding onto. These models were among the first personal computers Apple made, marking a big shift in technology.
Some early Macs, especially the Apple-1 and Apple II, have become collector’s items. Depending on the model and condition, they can be valuable to vintage tech fans.
Even if you don’t plan to sell it, an old Mac can be a cool piece of tech history to keep around.
Sinclair ZX Spectrum
If you find a Sinclair ZX Spectrum at your parents’ house, it’s worth holding on to. This small computer was a game-changer in the early home computing world.
You might be surprised how much interest there still is for these retro machines, especially if it’s in working condition.
The ZX Spectrum offers a nostalgic look at technology from the 1980s, perfect for anyone curious about computing history or retro gaming. It’s a fun piece to keep or even start your own vintage collection.
Franklin Planner 1980s edition
If you find a Franklin Planner from the 1980s in your parents’ house, it’s worth holding onto. These paper planners were popular for organizing daily life before digital calendars took over.
The 1980s editions often come with detailed inserts and planning pages that show how time management was approached back then.
You might appreciate the craftsmanship and the vintage feel of flipping through physical pages. Collectors and those curious about past planning styles may find it interesting.
Monopoly board game 1930s
If you find an original Monopoly board from the 1930s at your parents’ house, it’s worth holding onto. These early editions often have unique wooden houses and metal pieces that differ from modern sets.
Some rare sets, like those made before Parker Brothers mass-produced the game, can be quite valuable. Even worn copies can be a cool piece of family history and a fun way to connect with past generations.
Hot Wheels Redline cars
If you have Hot Wheels Redline cars from your childhood, these are worth holding onto. They have a red stripe on their tires, which shows they were made in the first ten years of Hot Wheels production, starting in 1968.
These cars can be valuable, especially if they are in good condition and from the original series. Models from the late 60s and early 70s are the most sought after by collectors.
Even if your cars aren’t perfect, they can still have some value, so it’s worth checking them out before giving them away.
Vintage Atari arcade game
If you find a vintage Atari arcade game in your parents’ house, it could be worth holding onto. These games were limited in number, especially models like Liberator, which had only a few hundred made.
Even though some of the games weren’t huge hits, their rarity can make them valuable to collectors. Having one might be a cool way to add a bit of gaming history to your home.
Signed Hemingway novel
If you find a signed Ernest Hemingway novel at your parents’ house, it’s worth keeping. Such books are rare and can hold both sentimental and monetary value.
A signed edition connects you to literary history in a special way. Even if you’re not a collector, it can be a meaningful keepsake for your family.
Heathkit DIY electronics kit
If you find a Heathkit electronics kit at your parents’ house, it’s worth keeping. These kits were popular for learning electronics by building your own devices step-by-step.
You can still enjoy building and experimenting with these kits today. They offer a hands-on way to understand how electronic components work together.
Owning one connects you to a classic hobby that inspired many to enter technology fields. It’s fun and educational, even decades later.
How to Preserve Family Treasures
Preserving your family treasures means protecting them from damage and maintaining their condition over time. Paying attention to how you store and clean these items will help keep their value and meaning intact for future generations.
Storage Tips for Sentimental Items
Store items in a cool, dry place to avoid damage from humidity or heat. Use acid-free boxes or tissue paper for delicate paper items like photos and letters.
Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause mold. For fabrics, keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Use silica gel packets to control moisture levels inside storage containers. If an item is fragile, use padded supports or wrap it in soft materials to prevent breakage.
Label storage containers clearly with the contents and date. This helps you find items easily without excessive handling.
Cleaning and Maintenance Advice
Clean items gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, especially on antiques or delicate surfaces.
For wooden pieces, use a mild wood cleaner or oil sparingly to keep the grain moisturized without buildup. Metal items may need a specific polish, but test it on a small area first to avoid damage.
Handle items with clean hands or wear cotton gloves. Regularly inspect treasures for signs of damage or deterioration, so you can address issues early.
Keep a gentle routine to maintain your family treasures without risking their condition.
The Emotional Value of Heirlooms
Heirlooms carry more than just physical worth; they hold memories and connections that link you to your family’s past. These objects can keep stories alive and provide comfort, making them meaningful beyond any price.
Building Connections Across Generations
When you keep an heirloom, you preserve a tangible link to your ancestors. This connection can help you understand where you come from and reinforce your sense of identity.
Items like quilts, jewelry, or old photographs often carry stories that span decades. Holding them or seeing them regularly can remind you of family traditions and values.
Passing these pieces on allows your family’s history to stay present in daily life. It creates a bridge that connects you, your parents, and your children through shared memories.
Sharing Stories With Loved Ones
Heirlooms are conversation starters. When you share an object’s story, you invite others into your family’s history.
This storytelling can create bonds and deepen relationships with relatives and friends. It gives you a reason to revisit and celebrate your roots.
Whether it’s a recipe, a handmade item, or a handwritten letter, these stories keep the memory of your loved ones alive. Sharing them helps keep family heritage meaningful for everyone involved.