Have you ever walked through our aisles here at Mall of Peddlers and wondered if that dusty old box in the corner could hold a hidden fortune? Whether you are browsing our Mesa or Apache Junction locations, there is a certain magic in the hunt for vintage treasures. Sometimes, the most unassuming items—the ones we grew up with or saw in our grandparents' homes—turn out to be highly sought-after collector's items today.
Before you host your next garage sale or clear out your storage unit, take a look at these 10 collectibles. You might just be holding onto something special!
1. Vintage Pyrex
That colorful mixing bowl set from the 1950s isn't just for baking anymore. Certain patterns, like the rare 'Lucky in Love' or 'Pink Gooseberry' sets, can fetch hundreds of dollars among dedicated mid-century kitchenware collectors.
2. Classic Board Games
Before digital screens took over, our living rooms were filled with cardboard boxes and plastic pieces. Original, complete editions of games like 'Fireball Island' or early versions of 'Dungeons & Dragons' can command premium prices from nostalgic gamers.
3. Vinyl Records
While everyone knows the Beatles are valuable, don't overlook rare pressings of jazz, soul, or regional rock bands from the 60s and 70s. Condition is everything here, so look for those crisp covers and scratch-free grooves!
4. Advertising Memorabilia
Old tin signs, gas station thermometers, and branded wooden crates from the early 20th century are staples of vintage decor. Their rustic charm makes them highly collectible for anyone looking to add authentic history to their home.
5. 1990s Gaming Consoles
Yes, the 90s are now considered vintage! Handheld consoles like the original Game Boy or specific limited-edition GameCube colors are trending upward in value as the millennial generation begins to curate their childhood collections.
6. Vintage Costume Jewelry
High-quality costume jewelry from brands like Trifari, Coro, or Monet is becoming increasingly popular. Look for pieces with unique designs or those iconic clip-on earrings that defined mid-century fashion.
7. Children's Books
First editions or early printings of childhood classics—especially those with their original dust jackets—are treasures. Keep an eye out for titles from the mid-century era that feature beautiful, hand-drawn illustrations.
8. Typewriters
Beyond being functional tools, vintage typewriters are beautiful pieces of industrial design. Models from Smith-Corona or the sleek designs of Olivetti remain hot commodities for writers and decorators alike.
9. Sports Trading Cards
It’s not just about the big stars. Rare misprints, specialty foil cards, or cards from lesser-known players in specific eras can be surprisingly valuable if kept in pristine, graded condition.
10. Camera Equipment
Analog photography is making a huge comeback. Vintage 35mm film cameras, especially those from brands like Nikon, Canon, or Leica, are not just for display; enthusiasts are actively buying them to get back to the art of film.
Pro-Tip: The best way to learn the ropes of collecting is to stay curious. Visit our over 130 vendor booths to see what our experts are showcasing. You might learn about a niche you never knew existed!
If you find something interesting, don't be afraid to ask our vendors about it. They love sharing their knowledge, and who knows—you might just find your next hobby right here at the Mall of Peddlers. And don't forget to stop by for our free Sunday magic show; it's the perfect way to cap off a weekend of treasure hunting. Happy collecting!
