Here's How Much These Iconic Antiques From the Past 30 Years Are Worth Now
Do you have any of these valuable items hiding in your attic?
Helaine Fendelman knows her antiques. Since 1984, she's appraised more than 1,594 items in 188 "What Is It? What Is It Worth?" columns for Country Living. Now, the New York City appraiser is looking back and reevaluating 40 of the most memorable objects from years' past. Here are Fendelman's 40 most memorable antiques worth money, from antique furniture, art, collectibles, antique toys, dishes, and more.
Early 20th-Century French Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk
What it was worth (1984): $750
What it's worth now: $15,000
This beautiful piece of designer luggage appeared in Fendelman's very first column for Country Living in 1984.
American Thermos Co. Roy Rogers Lunch Box
What it was worth (2004): $300
What it’s worth now: $65
This cowboy-covered lunch box is now worth less than a fourth of its original appraised value, but we still love the Western theme.
International Harvester Buddy L Toy Truck
What it was worth (1989): $1,200
What it’s worth now: $3,500
This might be one toy you don't let your kids play with.
Early-20th-Century Halls Excelsior Mechanical Bank
What it was worth (1987): $275
What it’s worth now: $1,750
After 31 years, this mechanical bank was appraised for more than six times its original value.
1985 Australian Thoroughbred Print
What it was worth (2012): $225
What it’s worth now: $100
This vintage horse print would look perfect in any room boasting a farmhouse-inspired aesthetic.
1960s Bonnie Cashin Coat
What it was worth (2008): $600
What it’s worth now: $800
This jacket was made by Bonnie Cashin, one of the originators of American sportswear. She also created uniforms for women fighting in World War II.
Blue Onion Condiment Set
What it was worth (1995): $350
What it’s worth now: $225
This delicate design was originally called the "bulb" pattern. Copy the classic look with the budget-friendly cornflower print found on Corningware's recently re-launched collection.
Cast-Iron Water Sprinkler
What it was worth (1997): $425
What it’s worth now: $1,500
We're not sure how useful this sprinkler would be today, but the duck design is pretty cute (and that updated price tag is pretty impressive).
Phillips & Clark Stove Co. Art Andes 20 Stove
What it was worth (1986): $3,500
What it’s worth now: $5,000
This antique stove is quite a bit bulkier and much more intricate than today's models, but it will no doubt make a statement in your home.
1950s Rand McNally Terrestrial Globe
What it was worth (2004): $50
What it’s worth now: $65
Rand McNally, a company founded way back in 1856, still makes maps today.
19th-Century Lehnware Bucket
What it was worth (2001): $22,000
What it’s worth now: $22,000
We certainly wouldn't be using this antique—which has surprisingly retained its value over the years—for its intended purpose.
Sterling Silver Tiffany Demitasse Spoons
What it was worth (2010): $1,400 for a set of 7
What it’s worth now: $750
Although they've decreased in value by nearly 50 percent, these spoons are still stunning.
European Enamelware Coffee Pot
What it was worth (2005): $350
What it’s worth now: $200
We'd love to have our coffee or tea served from this floral painted pot.
1904 National Cash Register
What it was worth (2015): $900
What it’s worth now: $1,000
Vintage machines from National Cash Register—now called NCR Corporation—are often appraised for thousands of dollars.
Albion Union Windmill Salesman's Sample
What it was worth (2006): $3,500
What it’s worth now: $3,500
Fendelman says Saleman's Samples pieces that have original parts are very valuable.
Circa-1910 Shoemaker's Nail Holder
What it was worth (1989): $75
What it’s worth now: $75
Although this device was originally used for nails, it could hold a variety of trinkets. Plus, think about how charming it would look on your dresser.
Late-19th-Century Tiffany Table Lamp
What it was worth (2004): $12,000
What it’s worth now: $12,000
Compared to current Tiffany Table designs—which are sold for a few hundred dollars—this version is quite a bit pricier.
Early-20th-Century Diamond Dyes Color Card
What it was worth (2013): $350
What it’s worth now: $350
Despite being around 100 years old, this colorful card is still vibrant.
Circa-1940s Folk Art Croquet Wickets
What it was worth (2005): $1,800
What it’s worth now: $3,600
These animated wickets are much more fun than the traditional versions.
Jennifer Aldrich was the editorial assistant for CountryLiving.com.
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