There’s something so special about the items our grandmothers have lovingly kept over the years — pieces that hold not only sentimental value but often real material worth, too. From fashion accessories to home goods, many of these vintage treasures are making a comeback, especially among collectors and design lovers who appreciate quality craftsmanship and timeless style. And in an age of fast fashion and mass production, borrowing from grandma’s stash is also an eco-friendly, budget-savvy way to add character to your wardrobe or home — with items that were built to go the distance. (They don’t make them like they used to!)
Whether it’s a stack of pastel Pyrex bowls, a sparkling piece of costume jewelry, a delicate depression glass dish or a sleek midcentury side table, these pieces have stories to tell — and serious staying power. We’ve rounded up 20 vintage items to borrow from grandma, to proudly put on display, pass down or sell for a tidy profit.
Depression glass
This pastel-colored glassware was produced during the Great Depression and was often given away with purchases. Today, pink, green, and amber pieces are especially collectible, and full sets or rare patterns can fetch impressive prices from vintage glass enthusiasts.
Midcentury furnishings
That funky lamp or low-slung coffee table in grandma’s living room might be a mid-century modern treasure. Pieces from the ’50s and ’60s — even unbranded ones — are hot on the resale market, especially if they retain their original finishes.
Porcelain dolls
Though not all old dolls are worth money, antique porcelain dolls from Europe — especially those with hand-painted features and original clothing — are highly collectible. If grandma kept hers in good shape, they could be surprisingly valuable.
Vinyl records
Thanks to the vinyl revival, old records are spinning back into style. Albums from iconic artists — think the Beatles, Bowie, or Aretha — can be worth hundreds, especially if they’re original pressings or in great condition.
China sets
Fine china may not be part of everyday dining anymore, but full or partial sets from brands like Lenox or Royal Doulton still carry value. Unique patterns and well-preserved pieces are especially desirable among collectors and vintage lovers.
Pocket watches
Whether they’re solid gold or simple family keepsakes, vintage pocket watches can have both sentimental and resale value. Brands like Elgin or Waltham are especially collectible, and working timepieces in good condition are always a draw.
Old cookbooks
Whether they’re filled with Jell-O molds or meatloaf recipes, vintage cookbooks offer a glimpse into culinary history. First editions, community cookbooks, and out-of-print titles can be collectible — and can spark a fun throwback cooking session to boot.
RELATED: Old-Fashioned Hobbies to Try if You’re in Your Granny Era
Pyrex bowls
Those colorful Pyrex bowls in grandma’s cupboard aren’t just cute — they’re collectible. Certain vintage patterns, especially from the 1950s and ’60s, are in high demand among kitchenware enthusiasts and can be quite valuable if kept in good condition.
Handbags
From structured purses to beaded clutches, grandma’s vintage handbag collection could be equally stylish and valuable. Bags from legacy brands like Coach or early Gucci are especially sought after, but even unbranded designs can be back in vogue — and worth something. And of course, they’re just plain fun to wear, too.
Cameo brooches
These delicate pieces were a jewelry box staple for generations. If grandma’s cameo is made from shell or set in gold, it could be particularly valuable. Even costume versions are back in thanks to their vintage charm and conversation-starting wearability.
Costume jewelry
Grandma may have tons of costume jewelry — think clip-on earrings, beaded necklaces, and cocktail rings — that are delightfully bold and back in fashion. Even if they weren’t made with precious stones, these pieces were built to last and can add serious sparkle to your outfit today.
Linen tablecloths
Delicately embroidered or lace-trimmed tablecloths from grandma’s collection are not just elegant but also potentially valuable. These vintage linens are back in fashion for everything from entertaining to upcycling, and well-preserved pieces are increasingly in demand.
Vintage buttons and sewing kits
Old sewing tins filled with buttons, thimbles, and spools of thread may be worth digging through. Vintage buttons — especially Bakelite or hand-carved types — are beloved by crafters and collectors, and certain sewing notions can be quite rare.
Silver-plated flatware
Before everything was dishwasher-safe, grandma likely had a gleaming set of silver-plated utensils for special occasions. With a bit of polish, these heirloom pieces are perfect for elevating weeknight dinners — or setting an unforgettable holiday table.
RELATED: Best Vintage-Inspired Kitchen Appliances You Can Buy Now
Quilts
Hand-sewn quilts, particularly those with intricate patterns or family history, are more than cozy heirlooms. Some antique quilts, especially those made before the 1950s, can be considered folk art and carry significant value at auctions and among textile collectors.
Cast-iron cookware
A well-loved cast iron skillet from grandma’s kitchen might be a treasure in disguise. Brands like Griswold and Wagner are especially prized, and these pans often last for generations, improving with age and a good seasoning.
RELATED: Retro Design Trends Making a Comeback, According to Interior Designers
Rotary phones
Sure, they’re not exactly practical in the smartphone era but vintage rotary phones make fantastic conversation pieces. With their satisfying click-and-spin dials and bold colors, they’re both nostalgic and stylish, especially in retro-inspired home offices or as quirky shelf decor.
Crystal candy dishes
You might remember these ubiquitous tabletop staples from grandma’s house, often filled with ribbon candy or mints. But these cut-glass or crystal dishes make charming and totally versatile vessels for jewelry, hair accessories, or even desk supplies, adding a bit of elegance to contain everyday clutter.
Needlepoint
Handmade needlepoint wall art, once considered too quaint to be chic, is having a modern design revival. Framed or displayed in embroidery hoops, these pieces add warmth, texture, and personal history to gallery walls — and all the better if stitched by grandma herself.
Vanity Sets
Comprising items like brushes, mirrors, and perfume bottles, antique silver vanity sets were once fixtures on every dressing table. When well-preserved, they’re not only beautiful display pieces but also often made of sterling silver or silver plate, giving them lasting value.
You Might Also Like
-
67 Best Gifts for Women That’ll Make Her Smile
-
The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper
