11 Collector’s Items You Might’ve Thrown Out by Mistake
These forgotten treasures may have ended up in the trash, but today they’re worth far more than you’d expect.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
In the rush to declutter, many people unknowingly toss out items that are highly prized by collectors. What seemed like junk can actually fetch big bucks. These 11 overlooked valuables could be hiding in your home or, worse, already in a landfill.
1. Pokémon Cards (First Edition)
Thimo Pedersen on Unsplash
That binder of childhood cards might be worth thousands now. First edition holographic cards, especially Charizard, are like the Holy Grail to collectors.
2. VHS Disney Tapes (Black Diamond Editions)
Paul Sableman on Flickr
Many people donated or dumped their old Disney tapes without a second thought. However, original Black Diamond editions of classics like The Lion King or Aladdin are highly collectible.
3. Original iPhone (2007 Sealed)
Avicente05 on Wikimedia Commons
Apple’s first-generation iPhone in its original box is now a tech collector’s dream. Some unopened units have sold for over $30,000.
4. Concert T-Shirts from the ’80s and ’90s
Göksu Taymaz on Pexels
Vintage band tees—especially from iconic tours like Nirvana or Queen—are highly sought after. The rarer the print or venue, the bigger the payoff.
5. Vintage McDonald’s Toys
Charles Rodstrom on Flickr
Happy Meal toys from the ’80s and ’90s are now valuable collectibles. Sets from Disney tie-ins, Beanie Babies, or movie promos are especially popular.
6. Old LEGO Sets
Scarlet Sappho on Flickr
Discontinued LEGO sets, especially those with original boxes and manuals, are collector gold. Star Wars and Technic themes are especially valuable.
7. Baseball Cards from the ’70s and ’80s
supportcaringllc on Flickr
Before the bubble burst, people tossed these by the shoebox. However, rare rookie cards—like Nolan Ryan or Cal Ripken Jr.—can still be worth a lot.
8. 1980s Lunchboxes
Robert Judge on Flickr
Metal lunchboxes featuring shows like He-Man, The A-Team, or Transformers are collector favorites. Even rusted ones can bring in cash if they’re rare.
9. Typewriters (Especially Mid-Century Models)
Anna on Pexels
That clunky typewriter in your attic might be a hot item for retro-lovers. Brands like Smith-Corona and Royal are especially collectible.
10. Video Game Cartridges (NES, SNES, SEGA)
Adam Valstar on Unsplash
Classic games like Zelda, Mario, or Sonic in original boxes are now collector cash cows. Unopened or rare editions command premium prices.
11. Vintage Cameras and Lenses
Alex Quezada on Pexels
Old film cameras, especially from Canon, Nikon, and Leica, are beloved by photographers and collectors alike. Some rare lenses sell for thousands.