8 Antiques Everyone Thinks Are Valuable But Usually Aren’t

Colorful and cheerful, Depression glass is often assumed to be a high-ticket collectible—and some patterns and rare colors do sell for hundreds or thousands. However, the more common reality is that much of it was mass-produced and distributed for free (as prizes) during the 1930s. Unless it’s an especially rare pattern in pristine condition, its resale value is modest.

According to Kovel’s Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide, “Depression glass is an inexpensive glass that was manufactured in large quantities during the 1920s and early 1930s. It was made in many colors and patterns by dozens of factories in the United States.” Depression glass values from the guide range from $5 to $200.

Milk glass was inexpensive to produce and widely available throughout the 20th century. While some early examples from the 1800s are collectible, the vast majority of vintage pieces are common and not particularly valuable. (We’re talking about being able to pick up a vase between $3 – $20 at flea markets.)

Unfortunately, hummels have seen a steep decline in value despite being once highly sought after (we’re talking thousands for a single figurine). Even the rise of goblincore hasn’t fully revived the market. The collector boom of the mid-20th century has passed, and today’s buyers show less interest in these once-iconic figurines.

While you can still find rare pieces listed for several thousand dollars, this is the exception, not the norm. Search sold eBay listings to get a better idea of what yours is worth.

It may shine like sterling, but silver-plated flatware doesn’t carry the same value. The market is saturated, and most pieces aren’t suitable for melting down. Collectors often pass unless it’s a complete set in exceptional condition.

“At the present time, there are no generally accepted prices set on various pieces of silverplated flatware,” says Tere Hagan, author of Silverplated Flatware, An Identification & Value Guide. “Prices vary a great deal from dealer to dealer throughout the country.” The guide estimates that if a dealer is buying in quantity, they would likely pay between $1.50 – $7 per piece.

If an item was produced solely to be sold as a collectible (whether it’s a coin, stamp, or plate), chances are the resale value isn’t much more than what you originally paid. Companies like the Bradford Exchange marketed limited-edition plates as investment pieces.

Today, as expected, the resale value for Bradford Exchange plates is minimal—with a few exceptions. These plates were produced in large numbers and rarely appreciated in value. However, older souvenirs that are unquestionably rare, like those from the 1901 Pan Am Exposition, will be worth more in general.

Perfume decanters shaped like cars or animals might be nostalgic, but they don’t fetch much on the secondary market. Avon collectibles were made in high volume—and like the collector plates—were made with the intent of people collecting a lot of them. These pieces rarely hold significant resale value.

Often mistaken for solid wood antiques, this furniture was typically made with veneer or low-cost materials and is like today’s particle board. It has vintage charm but lacks the craftsmanship or rarity to demand high prices. This is not true for all mid-century veneer pieces. Some veneer was placed over solid wood and was well-made by a known designer or manufacturer.

Old sewing machines look valuable and heavy and ornate—but I can’t tell you how many times I had people come into the antique shop to get one appraised (at least 1,000). However, unless it’s a rare early model or a Singer Featherweight, resale values are low due to their abundance. Nearly every home had at least one.