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Is That Trash… or Treasure? 5 Household Items That Could Be Worth Money


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When you’re cleaning out a garage, attic, or shed, it’s tempting to toss everything that looks old, broken, or dusty. But before you haul it all to the dump, take a moment. Hidden among the junk might be items people actually want—and are willing to pay good money for.


Here are seven household items often mistaken for trash that could actually have resale value:





1. Vintage Electronics (Even If They’re Broken)



Retro tech is having a moment. Collectors and DIY tech tinkerers are constantly on the hunt for old VCRs, Walkmans, boomboxes, or first-gen iPods. Even broken units can sell for parts. You’d be surprised what people are buying on sites like:







2. Video Games & Consoles from the 80s–2000s



Think that dusty Nintendo 64 or PlayStation 2 is useless? Think again. Even common games like Super Smash Bros. or Final Fantasy VII can be worth decent cash, especially if you have the original box and manual.


Check current resale values on:


  • PriceCharting – tracks market trends for video games

  • DKOldies – a reputable reseller that also buys used games and consoles






3. Cast Iron Cookware (Yes, Even Rusty Ones)



Cast iron pans are built to last—and collectors or cooking enthusiasts love restoring them. Look for brands like Griswold, Wagner, and Lodge. Surface rust? No problem.


Here’s a full guide on cleaning and seasoning them:







4. Hand Tools & Woodworking Equipment



Old wrenches, planes, and hammers—especially those from the early to mid-1900s—are in demand. Collectors love tools from brands like Stanley, Disston, Millers Falls, and Snap-On.


Great places to research tool value or connect with collectors:







5. Antique Advertising Signs & Packaging



Old Coca-Cola signs, oil cans, gas station signs, and even vintage cereal boxes can fetch hundreds—or thousands—depending on rarity and condition. Rust adds character to many of these pieces, so don’t worry if it’s not in perfect shape.


Find examples and collector pricing here:







6. First Edition or Out-of-Print Books



Not every book is valuable, but some old editions—especially first prints or books from banned or obscure authors—can be worth checking. Cookbooks, technical manuals, and children’s books are often overlooked.


To check value:


  • AbeBooks – great for rare and antique book listings

  • BookScouter – helps compare book buyback offers

  • WorldCat – to confirm rarity and library listings






7. LEGO Sets or Bins of Loose Bricks



Yes, even bins of mismatched LEGO bricks can go for cash. Certain themed sets (Star Wars, Harry Potter, etc.) hold significant value. If you find instruction manuals or original boxes—bonus!


Check prices and resale potential on:






Final Tip:

Before tossing everything, run it through eBay or Google Lens to get a quick idea of value. The resale economy is alive and well—especially for stuff most people overlook.




Sources:



 
 
 

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