For years, “What Is It? What Is It Worth?” in the magazine “Country Living” has spotlighted standout finds through its Haul of Fame. Sent in by readers, these items often turn out to be more valuable than they seem at first glance. Here are 20 of the most memorable appraisals.
Lone Ranger Mechanical Horse
A well-worn ride-on horse was a 1940s mechanical toy tied to the Lone Ranger radio show. These rides once sat outside stores, luring kids with a jingle and a nickel. With most long gone, this one’s working condition helped it reach an appraisal of $5,500.
1887 Salesman’s Windmill Model
What looked like a handmade toy was a salesman’s sample from the Albion Union Windmill Company, crafted around 1887. With its parts still functional and the paint mostly intact, the scale model earned a $3,500 appraisal. These miniature tools were often made better than the full-size versions.
Cast-Iron Uncle Sam Bank
This cast-iron bank, dating to the late 1800s, is valued at around $1,200 and still works as intended. A coin placed in Uncle Sam’s hand drops into the slot below. With its original paint and mechanism intact, it remains highly collectible among enthusiasts of early American mechanical banks.
America’s Cup Oil Painting
British painter Charles Gregory identified an old sailing scene depicting the first America’s Cup on canvas. After some research and a clear signature, the owner learned it was worth around $10,000. Pieces in this particular style are a favorite among Nautical art fans.
Parker Carousel Horse
Beneath layers of paint and wear was a century-old carousel horse crafted by the C.W. Parker Factory. A few parts had been restored, but the overall form remained solid, contributing to an appraisal of approximately $3,200. Few things combine whimsy and craftsmanship like these fairground animals.
Second-century Roman Gold Coins
A handful of old gold coins were confirmed Roman aurei from the second century. Each one showed detailed portraits and imperial slogans. Ancient coins of this kind are rare, and their preservation greatly influences the final appraisal. Together, these four coins were valued at $28,000.
Tiffany “Acorn” Lamp
An early Tiffany “Acorn” lamp sat on a side table. Though slightly worn, the rich color and original base helped it land an estimated value between $8,000 and $12,000. Art glass fans know an honest Tiffany doesn’t stay under the radar for long.
1830s Pocket Globe By Lane
Inside a small round case lined with celestial charts was a terrestrial pocket globe from the 1830s. Made by Lane, it showed how people once studied the world in a hand-sized format. Rare and well-preserved, it reached an estimated $10,000 thanks to age, maker, and condition.
Steel-And-copper Bathtub
A decade ago, this steel-and-copper bathtub earned a $2,200 appraisal. Dating back to the late 1800s, it reflects an era when improved plumbing brought durable materials into homes. The steel exterior was painted red, while the interior featured copper lining. Its watertight build and oak trim still impress collectors today.
1940s U.S. Map Linoleum Rug
At first glance, it looked like a novelty classroom prop. But that felt rug covered with a detailed U.S. map was a 1940s collectible in solid shape. Despite its humble materials, rarity drove its estimated value up to $2,000, showing how even floor decor can pay off.
Circa-1920 Adirondack Chair
Thomas Lee’s original Westport design, later known as the Adirondack chair, took shape in the early 20th century with this handcrafted item. Its wide armrests and slanted backrest reflect its rustic origins. As an authentic piece from this era with most of its original paint, it was appraised at $15,000 back in 2018.
Circa-1950s Toy Coca-Cola Truck
A small Coca-Cola delivery truck appeared ordinary initially, but collectors recognized it as a 1950s gem from Smith-Miller. With the miniature glass bottles still intact, its value landed between $1,500 and $2,500. Its nostalgic appeal and original parts deservingly set it apart.
Mid-20th Century Tin Dollhouse
Built from tin and packed with tiny rooms, this mid-century dollhouse wasn’t fancy but rare. Likely built by Marklin or Marx, the house lacked furniture but kept its structure. That helped push its worth to $1,200, especially for collectors chasing early toy architecture.
1846 Polk Presidential China
Found in a family china cabinet, this dessert plate came from President James K. Polk’s 1846 state service, crafted by Edouard Honore in France. Depending on condition, even a single piece from this set can fetch between $5,000 and $25,000.
Victorian Crazy Quilt
Bright fabric scraps stitched into bold shapes made this Victorian “crazy quilt” a showstopper. With good color and no significant damage, this one earned an appraisal of $2,500 for its craftsmanship and charm. Popular between 1876 and 1900, these quilts weren’t designed for warmth but for display.
1928 Birmingham Barons Baseball Uniform
This wool flannel uniform, worn by pitcher Eddie Wells in 1928, carries the spirit of early minor league baseball. Though it once seemed like a basic old jersey, further inspection revealed its origin. The jersey alone was appraised at $3,000, and the cap added another $500.
22-Inch Burl Wood Bowl
Carved from ash burl, a 22-inch bowl showed swirling patterns caused by stress in the wood grain. Those natural twists helped raise its worth to $3,500. Antique collectors prize pieces like this for their one-of-a-kind look and the traditional techniques used to shape them.
Women’s Suffrage Movement Banner
Hidden in a storage box, a felt pennant supporting the women’s vote held significant historical weight. It linked directly to a known activist, which raised its profile significantly. Thanks to its role in the suffragette movement, the banner landed a $5,500 appraisal because of its pristine state.
Sailor’s Valentine
With a valuation of $4,500, this seashell mosaic isn’t just a pretty box—it’s a historic love token from the 19th century. Made in Barbados and brought home by sailors, these intricate pieces required hours of hand placement and care. This one stood out for its exceptional state of preservation.
MacLean Beef Co. Store Sign
Faded lettering on an old wooden sign revealed a relic from MacLean Beef Co., previously displayed in Boston’s Faneuil Hall Marketplace. With hand-painted visuals still readable, it was valued between $3,000 and $4,000. Commercial signs such as this blend advertising with folk art appeal.
