Garage sales remain a goldmine for collectors, offering a chance to uncover overlooked treasures in plain sight.
While scoring a multi-million-dollar item is rare, plenty of collectibles hold surprising value and can still be discovered in neighbourhood driveways.
As trends evolve, these hidden gems are becoming increasingly desirable.
Here are 10 collectible items you should watch for at garage sales in 2025.
1. Vintage Pyrex and Glassware
Iconic Pyrex dishes, especially those with rare patterns like “Butterprint,” “Gooseberry,” or the sought-after “Pink Daisy,” are still turning up at garage sales. With their bright colours and nostalgic charm, they’re a favourite among collectors. Prices for rare sets have climbed significantly, so spotting a bargain is always a win.
2. Vinyl Records from the 1980s and 1990s
As vinyl continues its resurgence, records from the 1980s and 1990s—especially first pressings of albums by bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, or The Cure—are becoming collector’s items. Look for records in good condition with original sleeves to maximise their value.
3. Mid-Century Modern Furniture and Decor
The sleek designs of mid-century modern furniture and decor are still highly sought after. Items like Eames chairs, teak side tables, or retro lighting fixtures often appear at garage sales and can fetch high prices in the resale market.
4. First-Edition Books
First-edition books are a perennial favourite among collectors. Pay attention to early editions of modern classics, especially those by authors like Stephen King, J.K. Rowling, or Toni Morrison. Dust jackets and signatures add even more value.
5. Vintage Video Game Consoles and Games
Retro gaming remains a hot trend, and garage sales are one of the best places to find vintage consoles like the NES, Sega Genesis, or Game Boy. Original games, especially those with boxes and manuals, can fetch surprising prices, even for less common titles.
6. Antique Cameras
Film photography is making a comeback, and old cameras are more popular than ever. Look for classic brands like Leica, Polaroid, or Hasselblad. Even cameras with minor wear can hold significant value, particularly if they’re functional or have unique features.
7. Collector’s Toys from the 1980s and 1990s
Action figures, board games, and dolls from the 1980s and 1990s are nostalgic goldmines. Think Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, My Little Pony, or original Polly Pocket sets. Items in their original packaging are the most valuable, but loose toys can also sell well if they’re in good condition.
8. Vintage Costume Jewellery
Costume jewellery from the mid-20th century, especially pieces by brands like Trifari, Weiss, or Monet, is highly collectible. Bold designs with rhinestones or unique materials often stand out. Keep an eye out for signed pieces, as they command the highest prices.
9. Sports Memorabilia
From vintage baseball cards to jerseys and signed photographs, sports memorabilia never goes out of style. Items tied to legendary players or memorable events are particularly valuable. Even unassuming memorabilia, like ticket stubs from major games, can have hidden worth.
10. Retro Kitchenware
Retro kitchen items like enamel coffee pots, colourful melamine dishes, or tin lunchboxes often appear at garage sales. Lunchboxes featuring popular characters from decades past, like Star Wars or Scooby-Doo, are especially appealing to collectors.
The magic of garage sales lies in their unpredictability. With a bit of patience, a keen eye, and some knowledge of current trends, you can uncover incredible treasures at bargain prices.
As we head into 2025, these items are proving to be some of the best finds for collectors, blending nostalgia and investment potential.
Happy collecting!
