If you’re looking to make some extra money, skip the MLM. Look instead to the well-cared-for possessions of your youth. If you have toys like Hot Wheels or Star Wars action figures in good shape, you might be able to earn some fast cash selling them online. Check out our list of some of the best everyday items (that aren’t antiques!) that hold surprising value.
1. Hot Wheels
Hot Wheels are an affordable toy that provides hours of fun to kids, especially the ones who love cars and trucks. They can be driven on most surfaces, from linoleum to siblings’ faces, and they make a satisfying sound when you crash them together. But some of the original Hot Wheels can earn you up to $200 apiece. The “Sweet Sixteen” models were first released in 1968. Also, the “redline” models, which have tires with red lines on them, can net you $200 each.
2. Star Wars Action Figures
No one is more passionate than a Star Wars fan. Star Wars has an impressive amount of merchandise released over the years, from Lego figurines to Barbie dolls and more. Depending on the toy’s year, condition, and rarity, they can sell for hundreds of dollars. Here’s one shocking example: The Wrath of the Rancor Hallmark Christmas ornament from 2013 retailed for about $35 but sells on eBay for nearly $800.
3. Comics
Nostalgia is a powerful driving force for people. And comic books are a big part of many people’s childhoods. Of course, first issues and first editions of comic books will always net a pretty penny online, but many factors drive up the value of comic books. Does something important happen in the comic book? That could increase its resale value. Did a character become part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe? That will also make your well-loved comic more valuable.
4. Hood Ornaments
You might be surprised to see how much you can sell just one piece of a classic car for. For example, Rolls Royce hood ornaments sold for over $200 in 2021. But the “Spirit of Ecstacy” hood ornament isn’t the only one to get you some fast cash online. Sure, the Jaguar, Bugatti, and Maybach hood ornaments are high-value because of the luxury nature of these cars. But you can also find generous buyers for Pontiac, Buick, and Mack hood ornaments.
5. Board Games
Remember how we talked about the power of nostalgia? This is another candidate. If you have older, well-kept board games with all of their pieces, you might be able to earn some cash. Vintage games can sell for thousands of dollars. And even fairly recent releases can be valuable: a 2005 Settlers of Catan 3d version sold for nearly $1,000.
6. Video Games
Games from the 80s in good condition can make good money on eBay or other sale sites. For example, the original Mario Brothers game on Nintendo sold for over $100,000 in 2019. What treasures are gathering dust in your game cabinet back home?
7. Stereo Equipment
Vintage stereo equipment, from receivers to speakers, can excite enthusiasts into spending generously. Look at the “obsolete” equipment in thrift stores or your parents’ basement because it might boost your checking account. Check out this Pioneer stereo receiver listed for $3,800, for example.
8. Appliances
There’s an undeniable charm to the aesthetics of vintage kitchen appliances, with their sturdy steel or cast iron and rounded edges. People trying to achieve the perfect look in their kitchen are willing to pay handsomely for older appliances in good working order. However, 1920s ice boxes aren’t the only things people will splurge on. Old-fashioned mixers and coffee mills are valuable on the resale market. Vintage tea kettles are also high earners on eBay.
9. Furniture
No one will be shocked to hear that mid-century modern furniture is sought after. But even a recently purchased couch or kitchen table in good condition can earn you some good money. Facebook marketplace is a great place to find local buyers for the gently-loved furniture you’re ready to dispose of.
10. Glass Bottles
Check grandma’s attic for those dusty blue or amber bottles. While an old soda bottle won’t necessarily earn much, unusual bottle colors and shapes are more likely to draw the eye of collectors. It may not mean much to you, but it could be the crown jewel in an enthusiast’s collection.
11. Gift Cards
Do you have a gift card to a restaurant sitting around? Sell that thing! If it is not for a restaurant near you, or you don’t care for the store, it makes sense to pass it on. Since it was likely a gift, you will be earning money on the sale of it anyway, so you can sell it for slightly less than it’s worth and give a good deal to your buyer, too.
12. Handmade Quilts
If you have old handmade quilts taking up space in your linen closet but not your heart, you should consider selling them. Good quality vintage quilts can net anywhere from $65 to hundreds of dollars on resale sites like eBay. The most valuable quilts are museum-quality, which means they are not only in perfect condition but also connected to a specific era.
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Karee Blunt is a nationally syndicated travel journalist, focused on discovering destinations and experiences that captivate and inspire others through her writing. She is also the founder of Our Woven Journey, a travel site focused on inspiring others to create memory-making adventures with their loved ones. Karee is passionate about encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and live the life they dream of. She is the mother of six kids, including four through adoption, and lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about Karee on her about me page.