10 Items That Were Always Locked in a Glass Case — and Why

Some store items always seemed extra special—not because of their price but because they lived behind glass cases. You'd see them locked up tight, and just getting a closer look meant asking for help. Here's a throwback to items that were always in glass cases and why they needed that extra protection.

Tricia Quitales
April 28, 2025
3 min read

10 Items That Were Always Locked in a Glass Case — and Why — shattha pilabut on Pexels

Walking into a store and spotting something in a glass case always made it feel a little more important—or out of reach. Whether it was due to value, popularity, or how often they “went missing,” these items got the VIP treatment behind locked doors. Shoppers often had to flag down an employee just to take a peek or ask a question. In this article, we’re unlocking memories of 10 products that were always kept behind glass and the reasons why.

1. Video Game Cartridges and Discs

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Video games were always behind glass cases, whether it was a new Nintendo 64 cartridge or a shiny PlayStation disc. Their small size and big price tag made them easy targets for theft. Asking someone to unlock the case was a Saturday ritual for many kids.

2. Jewelry at Department Stores

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Rings, necklaces, and shiny watches were displayed in locked glass counters under bright lights. Even costume jewelry got the glass-case treatment to avoid “accidents” or walk-offs. Salespeople stood close by, ready to show you the sparkle.

3. Expensive Calculators

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Graphing calculators, like the iconic TI-83, were kept behind glass in electronics aisles. They were required for school but came with a price that made them worth locking up. It felt wild needing employee help just to prep for algebra.

4. Collectible Trading Cards

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High-value Pokémon, Magic, or sports cards were proudly shown in small glass displays. Collectors would press their faces against the glass, pointing out their dream cards. These small paper rectangles had serious resale value and needed protection.

5. Fragrances and Perfume Sets

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Designer perfume bottles lined shelves behind glass, giving off an air of luxury—literally and figuratively. Because of their small size and high cost, theft was common. Testing was allowed, but buying required a key.

6. Cameras and Camcorders

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Back when home videos were a big deal, cameras and camcorders sat safe behind glass displays. From point-and-shoots to full camcorders, their cost and tech value made them lock-worthy. It was a big deal when someone opened that case just for you.

7. Electric Razors and Grooming Kits

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Men’s grooming tools were locked up tight, even though they seemed like everyday items. Brands like Philips or Braun were pricey enough to be guarded like gold. The glass case gave razors an oddly elite status.

8. High-End Sneakers

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Limited edition or name-brand kicks sometimes ended up in display cases, especially in specialty shoe stores. Customers would stare at them like art pieces, hoping they’d try them on one day. Hype and theft risk made glass the best protection.

9. Laptops and Tablets

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Before tech sections got fancy with alarms and tethers, portable computers were kept behind locked glass. Customers had to ask to see and touch one or even just read the specs. These gadgets were high-theft and high-demand, making cases a must.

10. Luxury Pens and Stationery Sets

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Yes, even pens can be fancy enough to earn glass-case security. Brands like Montblanc or Cross had smooth styles and steep price tags. You couldn’t just grab one—you had to request an audience with it.