Bruno Pugh
Have you ever glanced at your kitchen and wondered if that old teapot or spice rack might be worth more than its weight in flour? The truth is, your kitchen could be harboring hidden gems worth hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars. These everyday items might be more than just kitchen clutter, ranging from vintage utensils to rare ceramics. Here’s a look at fifteen surprising treasures you might already own.
CorningWare
Your grandmother’s CorningWare might be more valuable than you think, especially in the classic blue cornflower pattern. Produced in the 1950s and ’60s, these durable dishes are now highly collectible. Some rare patterns, like the “Wildflower” or “Spice of Life,” can sell for upwards of $700 or more.
Pyrex
If your kitchen has brightly colored Pyrex dishes, you might think twice before using them for leftovers. Specific patterns, like the “Lucky in Love” or “Gooseberry,” have become icons in the collecting world. A single Pyrex dish can sometimes sell for over $1,000, with complete sets going for even more.
Cast-Iron Skillets
That heavy cast-iron skillet you inherited might be more than just a trusty cooking companion. Brands like Griswold and Wagner, known for their exceptional craftsmanship, are now hot commodities. The older the skillet, the more seasoned it is, literally and in value. According to Southern Living, a unique Griswold skillet with a spider design sold for $8,000 on eBay in 2019.
Vintage KitchenAid Mixers
Before electric stand mixers became common, hand-cranked whisks were essential for mixing batters and beating eggs. KitchenAid, known for its kitchen essentials, started with the Model K mixer in the late 1930s. These iconic mixers, celebrated for their enduring design and functionality, are now highly collectible, with well-preserved models from the ‘30s to ‘50s commanding high prices.
Barware
Collectors highly value antique barware, especially vintage cocktail shakers and glassware. Art Deco shakers or those featuring classic recipes can fetch $200 to $300 based on their design and condition. Additionally, rare-patterned or colorful antique glassware and goblets, including Depression-era pieces, can range in value from a few dollars to several hundred.
Ice-O-Mat Ice Crushers
With its sleek design and nostalgic appeal, the Ice-O-Mat ice crusher is a favorite among mid-century kitchen gadget collectors. These countertop crushers, often made of chrome and bakelite, are functional and decorative. An Ice-O-Mat can sell for $50 to $200 in good condition, based on the model and color.
Waffle Irons
Waffle irons aren’t just for making breakfast—they can also serve up some serious cash. Vintage electric waffle irons, particularly those with Art Deco designs or made by brands like General Electric, are sought after by vintage lovers. A well-preserved waffle iron can sell for $100 to $300, depending on its condition and age.
Vintage Bread Boxes
They may seem like a relic of the past, but they’re a hot commodity among vintage kitchenware enthusiasts. Certain boxes can be worth several hundred dollars, mainly if they are in good condition and made of old enamel, wood, or metal. However, the most valuable bread box is the ornate French Walnut Pannetiere, frequently listed for thousands of dollars.
Antique Meat Grinders
Before electric meat grinders, there were sturdy, hand-cranked models that have now become collector’s items. Antique meat grinders, especially from brands like Universal or Enterprise, are valued for their craftsmanship and history. Depending on the model and condition, these grinders can sell for $50 to $200.
Antique Ovens and Stoves
That antique oven or stove you’ve been using as a conversation piece might be worth more than just a passing glance. These stoves and ovens, especially those from the early 20th century, are highly collectible. Brands like Chambers and Wedgewood are particularly sought after, with some models selling for several thousand dollars.
Manual Coffee Grinders
It might seem old-fashioned, but they’re brewing a lot of interest among collectors. Antique pieces from the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially those with elaborate designs or made by well-known manufacturers, can be worth $200 or more. The next time you’re grinding your morning beans, consider that you might be grinding out a profit.
Le Creuset Enamel Cookware
Le Creuset enamel cookware has become a kitchen staple, but older pieces in discontinued colors are precious. If you have a vintage Le Creuset pot in a rare hue like “Flame” or “Cobalt Blue,” you could be looking at a piece worth several hundred dollars.
China Sets
Dust off that old china set—you might be holding onto a goldmine. Fine china from renowned brands like Royal Crown Derby, Wedgwood, and Meissen can be precious, especially if the set is complete and in good condition. Some sets, especially with unique patterns or limited editions, fetch thousands of dollars.
Copper Molds
Collectors prize antique copper molds for their unique reddish-brown hue and aesthetic charm. Their worth is often assessed based on details and maker names; for example, molds labeled Trottier or Benham and Froud can exceed $500. A Victorian-era Benham and Froud gelatin mold set fetched $849 at auction.
Cookie Cutters
Those vintage cookie cutters in the back of your drawer might be worth more than just holiday memories. Collectors seek out old tin or copper cookie cutters in unique shapes, especially those from the early 20th century. A rare cutter shaped like a turkey or Santa Claus could quickly sell for $100 or more.