As trends in home decor shift, many vintage kitchen items are emerging as valuable collectibles. Ranging from charming glassware to durable cookware, these pieces not only evoke nostalgia but also represent a significant investment. Here are 15 items from a vintage kitchen that might be worth a fortune.
Jadeite Containers
Jadeite, green-hued glassware popular in the 1940s and 1950s, is now highly sought after by collectors. A few cheaper options can be had for as low as $5, but some rare models go for $1000. If you’re lucky and land a museum piece, you’ll be looking at an easy $5000.
Vintage Cast Iron Skillets
The durability and cooking performance of vintage cast iron skillets, especially those made by iconic brands like Griswold and Wagner, is unmatched. These pieces can be worth hundreds or more, depending on their condition. There’s even a mint condition, super rare skillet by Griswold that got an $8000 price tag!
Vintage Enamel Bowls
At first glance, enamel bowls might not seem like they amount to much, but trust us when we tell you not to judge a book by its cover. The vintage editions are so competitively priced that, depending on the condition, appraisers might value one for up to $1500.
Antique Tea Kettles
Antique tea kettles, particularly those made from copper or with intricate designs, are highly sought after. Depending on their age and craftsmanship, these kettles can command prices in the thousands since collectors appreciate their aesthetic appeal and historical significance.
CorningWare Dishes
This bunch is famous for its thermal shock resistance and remains a collector’s favorite. Vintage pieces, especially those from the Spice of Life and Cornflower ranges, can be worth several hundred dollars. Visit some antique shops, and you never know, you might land a steal.
Pyrex Glassware
Characterized by its colorful patterns, vintage Pyrex is another kitchen item that can be surprisingly valuable. Some pieces, particularly those with unique designs, can be worth up to $3,000. However, it would be best if you noted that they are not dishwasher safe.
Antique Dishware
Fine china and porcelain dishware can be precious, especially from well-known manufacturers. A complete set can easily exceed $1,500, mainly if it features intricate designs or is in mint condition. These items often carry sentimental value, adding to their allure for collectors.
Vintage KitchenAid Mixers
Most kitchens are considered complete with a nifty KitchenAid Mixer on the shelf. The brand is well respected due to its interesting designs and durability. Vintage models are highly sought after, as the older generations have a certain charm that can’t be quantified.
Cookie Cutters
Growing up, cookie cutters were everywhere, thanks to our grandparents and their interesting baking techniques. Sadly, these items were phased out with the advancement in tech. That said, it could be time to dig up your grandma’s attic for these nifty tools as demand has skyrocketed, with some going for as high as $1500.
Copper Pots
They might not sound like they belong on this list, but they are durable and versatile. A good-quality pot, when new, is pricey enough, but a vintage one might cost you an arm and a leg. Some might even argue that the vintage models are overpriced, but the results speak for themselves.
Vintage Cookbooks
Recipes used to be closely guarded secrets that were passed on to their heirs. With the advent of cookbooks, chefs gained new recipes, creating a starting point for our refined menus. Owning a piece of this history is quite lucrative, pushing the prices of first-edition vintage cookbooks to the stratosphere.
Collectible Glassware
Cut crystal and glassware can be extremely valuable, depending on the pattern and collection. Often used on special occasions, these pieces are typically in excellent condition. For instance, a rare antique milk glass can cost anywhere from $5k to $10k.
Herb Choppers
Yes, these are a thing, and they are so rare that you might be unknowingly sitting on a gold mine if you have a set lying about. The various designs and materials make these items a nifty addition to any kitchen, even from an aesthetic perspective, thus leading to their interesting prices.
Rare Cutlery Sets
Silverware has always had notoriety for being pricey, whether new or secondhand ones. This is mainly due to its quality and longevity. A good set can last generations, while a complete set can be considered a good investment. For context, the famous Georg Jensen set went for a staggering 8500 sterling pounds.
Vintage Le Creuset
This list would be a letdown without mentioning the iconic staple. There’s a reason why most boomers swear by this brand; they are built to last and have a timeless flare, which few brands can pull off even today. If you have a set in the attic, there’s a chance it’s worth hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.
