Antiquing is an adventure in discovery and storytelling. The thrill of finding a perfect piece is just the beginning. Over time, your collection can gain both financial and personal value as you develop the expertise to spot rare and special items others might miss.
If you’re new to collecting, start by focusing on what you love. The antique market ebbs and flows, but passion makes market dips less daunting and even creates opportunities to find treasures at a lower cost. To help you begin, I’ve curated a list of popular vintage and antique collectibles with links to unique finds on Etsy. Once you discover something that speaks to you, you may find collecting becomes more than a hobby—it’s a lifelong pursuit.
Furniture & Decor
Furniture can be hard to collect since most people don’t have more than one coffee table, for example. You can generalize your search by era and collect several items for your home from that period.
Mirrors
Antique mirrors are a versatile and attractive addition to any collection. They come in various styles, shapes, and sizes, reflecting different eras and design aesthetics. Collecting mirrors not only adds beauty to your home but can also create the illusion of more space.
Eastlake
Eastlake furniture refers to a Victorian-era furniture style named after the influential British architect Charles Eastlake. This style is characterized by its simple, geometric designs and minimal ornamentation. Collectors are drawn to Eastlake furniture for its sturdy construction and timeless appeal.
MCM
Mid-Century Modern (MCM) furniture, popular from the 1940s to the 1960s, is characterized by its sleek lines, minimalistic design, and organic shapes. This timeless style has experienced a resurgence in popularity, making it a highly sought-after collectible for both its aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Silverplate
Silverplate items are an affordable option for collectors who can’t swing for solid silver. With a wide range of items, from flatware to decorative pieces, silverplate offers a way to add some glimmer and luxury to your curio cabinets.
Glassware
Vintage glassware is very collectible, and it’s generally pretty affordable. Most pieces are still safe to use today (though be mindful of lead exposure), and they look great displayed in a china cabinet or on open shelves.
Depression Glass
Depression glass is a colored or clear glassware produced during the Great Depression. Patterns and colors vary, with some pieces being quite rare and valuable.
Jadeite Glass
Jadeite Glass is known for its distinctive milky green color and was popular during the mid-20th century. This type of glassware includes dinnerware, kitchenware, and decorative items—just enough pieces to keep you collecting for years on end.
Milk Glass
Milk glass is opaque, white glassware that has been popular for over 100 years. Its timeless appeal, versatility, and affordability make it a favorite among beginners. Items range from vases and bowls to lamps and figurines.
Jewelry
If you want to learn more about antique jewelry, check out my sister site, Ageless Heirlooms.
Mourning Jewelry
Old-world jewelers created mourning jewelry to commemorate the death of a loved one. Often made from materials like jet, onyx, and hair, these pieces symbolize the mourning process and can include brooches, lockets, and rings.
Antique Lavaliers
Lavaliers are delicate, pendant-style necklaces that gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Often adorned with gemstones and intricate metalwork, these elegant pieces are highly sought-after yet affordable since they are lightweight.
Art Deco Rings
Art Deco Rings are characterized by bold geometric designs and the use of contrasting materials. Popular during the 1920s and 1930s, collectors consider these rings timeless pieces with a unique style that is hard to replicate today. Search for “filigree” styles to get started.
Watches
Collecting antique watches is a popular hobby due to the intricate craftsmanship and fascinating history behind these timepieces—just know that getting them repaired can be difficult. From pocket watches to wristwatches, there is a wide range of styles, brands, and movements to explore.
Kitchenware
Most kitchenware is still safe to use, but some dishes might contain harmful amounts of lead if they are highly decorated and show extensive wear.
Cookie Cutters
Antique cookie cutters are a delightful addition to any collection, with a variety of shapes and materials available. They provide a nostalgic reminder of homemade treats and holidays past, making them a popular choice among collectors.
Mason Jars
Mason jars, once a staple in kitchens for preserving food, have become popular collectibles. With different sizes, colors, embossed designs, and brands like Atlas, these jars appeal to collectors who love the farmhouse aesthetic.
Pyrex
Collectors love vintage Pyrex for its colorful patterns and durable construction. These pieces were produced from the 1940s to the 1980s and can be heat resistant.
Corning Ware
Corning Ware is a durable and versatile ceramic bakeware brand that was super popular in the 1950s. Collectors appreciate CorningWare for its iconic retro patterns.
Linens
Vintage linens are a great sustainable way to add beautiful high-quality textiles into your everyday life (though some linens can get pricey).
Quilts & Bedding
Antique quilts and bedding showcase intricate craftsmanship and beautiful patterns. Handmade and often passed down through generations, these textiles offer a glimpse into the past and can be used as functional or decorative pieces in your home.
Handkerchiefs
Vintage handkerchiefs, once a common accessory, have become a popular collectible item. They come in a variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns, often featuring delicate embroidery or lacework. Collecting handkerchiefs offers a window into the fashion and customs of bygone eras.
Memorabilia
History buffs and the like might enjoy collecting various types of memorabilia. If you know someone who collects memorabilia, you have a built-in gift idea ready.
Old Photographs
Collecting old photographs is a fascinating way to explore history and connect with the past. Collectible photos depict people, places, and events, offering insights into different periods and cultures. Collectors often focus on specific themes, like family portraits or travel scenes.
Political Buttons
Political buttons are a popular way to commemorate campaigns, candidates, and events from history. They provide a tangible connection to past political movements and offer a unique perspective on historical events.
Stamps
Stamp collecting, or philately, is a classic hobby that appeals to people of all ages. Stamps offer a wealth of information about history, geography, and culture, with countless designs, themes, and denominations to explore.
Postcards
Vintage postcards provide a snapshot of history, depicting landscapes, architecture, and everyday life from the past. Like photos, collectors often focus on specific themes, such as holiday greetings or travel destinations.
Coins
Coin collecting is an enduring hobby that combines history, art, and economics. Collectors appreciate the intricate designs and fascinating stories behind each coin, with many focusing on specific countries, time periods, or themes.
Books
Antique books offer a wealth of knowledge and history, with collectors drawn to various aspects such as subject matter, edition, or binding. From rare first editions to beautifully illustrated volumes, antique books can be an investment and a source of enjoyment.
Toys
Vintage toys are a nostalgic and whimsical collectible that appeals to both children and adults. Popular toys range from dolls and action figures to board games and tin toys.
Pottery
Consider using antique pottery for decorative purposes only since some glazes can contain lead and other harmful chemicals. As pieces of decor, they are perfectly safe and work well as cache pots for house plants.
Majolica
Majolica pottery is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate designs. Originating in the 19th century, these pieces often feature natural motifs, such as flowers and animals.
Roseville
Roseville pottery is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and distinct designs. Collectors are drawn to the various patterns and shapes, making it a sought-after collectible.
McCoy
McCoy pottery, another American brand, offers various styles and colors. From utilitarian kitchenware to decorative vases, collectors appreciate McCoy pottery’s versatility and enduring appeal.
Ironstone
Ironstone is a type of durable, white ceramic that has been popular since the 19th century. Collectors value ironstone for its simple elegance and practicality, with pieces that include dinnerware, serving dishes, and decorative items.
