15 Antiques from the ’70s That Are Worth a Small Fortune Now
From lava lamps to vintage toys, these '70s antiques are now fetching shocking prices in today's collector market.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
With new technology and recognizable pop culture, the 1970s were a dynamic and revolutionary decade. Many of the things that occupied homes in the past are now expensive, uncommon gems. These antique findings, whether hidden in an attic or unseen on a shelf, have the potential to bring in a substantial sum of money.
1. McDonald’s Collectible Glasses
Gerrilynn Nunley on Flickr
These colorful fast-food promos were once part of Happy Meal culture. Today, a mint-condition set from the ’70s can easily fetch over $100.
2. Vintage Pioneer Turntables
Joe Haupt on Flickr
Classic models like the Pioneer PL-12D have become prized by vinyl enthusiasts. Their warm analog sound and sturdy components keep them spinning on high-end resale sites.
3. Star Wars Action Figures (1977 Original Line)
Chris Murphy on Flickr
First-edition Kenner toys can bring in thousands, especially unopened. Characters like Luke Skywalker in his original packaging are collectors’ holy grails.
4. Pyrex Daisy and Butterprint Patterns
AquaOwl on Flickr
Bright, durable, and now incredibly collectible, Pyrex from the ’70s is culinary gold. Some sets have fetched upwards of $500 depending on the condition.
5. Atari 2600 Console
Yarivi on Wikimedia Commons
The console that started it all is now a collector’s favorite. Original boxed versions can sell for $400 to $800.
6. Lava Lamps
Camilo González Velis on Unsplash
The iconic flow of goo in glass became a ’70s symbol. Original models from companies like Lava Lite now sell for over $200 if they are working and in good shape.
7. Fisher Price Play Family Sets
Cathrine Idsøe on Flickr
These durable toys were childhood staples. Sets like the vintage Little People Airport or Farm are in high demand. Complete sets with original figures and accessories can bring in $100 to $400.
8. 1970s Concert Posters
Ronald Saunders on Wikimedia Commons
From Led Zeppelin to The Grateful Dead, original tour posters have become hot collector items. Posters from smaller venues or limited press runs are worth thousands.
9. Rotary Telephones
Johnny Briggs on Unsplash
Retro rotary phones, especially in rare colors like turquoise or pink, are now design pieces. Working units can fetch $75 to $200, depending on the model.
10. CorningWare Blue Cornflower Dishes
Gerrilynn Nunley on Flickr
Everyone’s grandma had these in the kitchen; now, collectors want them back. While not all are valuable, rare sizes and lid styles can command $100 or more.
11. 1970s Skateboards
Nick Sherman on Flickr
Old-school skateboards with metal wheels or vintage deck art have serious street cred now. Brands like Hobie and Makaha fetch high prices among collectors.
12. Sony Trinitron TVs
Ged Carroll on Flickr
Though bulky, these TVs were tech marvels in their day. Collectors of retro electronics will pay $200–$500 for a working model. Gamers even use them for vintage consoles due to their display quality.
13. Pez Dispensers (’70s Originals)
Marianne Serra on Wikimedia Commons
Pez heads from the ’70s are more than just candy pushers; they’re miniature cash machines. Unique character heads or misprints are the most sought-after.
14. Vintage Levi’s Jeans (Big E Tag)
rahman k on Flickr
The original Levi’s from the ’70s with the red “Big E” tag represent fashion history. Depending on the wash and condition, prices can skyrocket into the thousands.
15. Mid-Century Modern Furniture
coco+kelley on Flickr
The ’70s delivered sleek, minimalist furniture that’s now at its peak trend. Pieces by designers like Eames or Knoll can command four—or five-figure sums.