10 Vintage Electronics in Your House That Could Be Worth a Lot of Money
Written by
Cynthia Measom
Edited by
Caitlyn Moorhead
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Though nostalgia has no price tag, the difference between sentimental value and vintage appreciation could be quite the finder’s fee. Whether you call it secondhand, heirloom or simply vintage, the old-school gadgets collecting dust in your attic could be worth a pretty penny.
Check Out: 3 Coins From the 1950s That Are Worth a Lot of Money
Thomas Paddock, a consumer trends analyst, shopping expert and founder of Learn Retail Arbitrage, said, “Vintage electronics are suddenly all the rage again. Who would’ve thought? It’s like people are rediscovering the charm of tech from the past, and I find it absolutely fascinating. It’s not just collectors and enthusiasts getting in on the action — everyday folks might have hidden treasures gathering dust in their attics.”
Here are some vintage electronics that might make you a few bucks if you happen to have them hidden away somewhere. Also see how much your 1980s toys could be worth.
Original Apple iPod
It’s funny to think of iPods now being vintage; but, if something is over 20 years old, the vintage label applies, and, well, rules are rules.
“Take the original Apple iPod, for instance,” Paddock said. “A hallmark of the digital music revolution, its value has soared over time. It’s amazing to think that those pristine gadgets, tucked away and forgotten, can now rake in up to a whopping $20,000. Even the ones that have been well used and loved can still snag a decent $500 to a few thousand.”
Nintendo Game Boy
You can level up your finances if you’ve held on to this relic from your childhood.
“The beloved Nintendo Game Boy, which you might find hidden in a closet, can fetch anywhere from $50 to $3,000,” Paddock said. “It’s all thanks to a mix of nostalgia and its iconic place in the gaming world.”
Sony Walkman TPS-L2
Nothing represents the look and feel of a specific place and time, down to the decade, like a Walkman. If you still have yours lying around and think it has no value, you might want to check that out as collectors could sing another tune.
“This little gem from the ’80s,” Paddock said, “which made music portable for everyone, can still find a new home for a solid $500 to $2,500 if it’s in good shape.”
Vintage Rotary Phones
Opportunity is calling; and, if you have one of these vintage rotary phones in your possession, you could cash in.
“Vintage rotary phones, with their charming aesthetics, can also find a new home for anywhere from $50 to $500,” Paddock said.
Original Polaroid Instant Cameras
Take a shot at earning some quick cash if you have an old Original Polaroid around.
“The resurgence of instant photography has propelled the value of original Polaroid Instant Cameras, which can sell for $50 to $200,” Paddock said.
Atari 2600 Console
Paddock said, “In the realm of gaming, the Atari 2600 console, one of the pioneering home video game systems, can fetch anything from $50 to a staggering $2,000.”
Commodore 64 Home Computer
“The popular home computer of the past, the Commodore 64, is another beloved item,” Paddock said, “and, depending on its condition, it could go for $100 to $700.”
First Edition Tamagotchi
“Then there are the treasures from the ’90s like the first edition of Tamagotchi,” Paddock said, “an item that still captures hearts and can fetch up to $300 if unopened or $20 to $50 if gently used.”
Sony Trinitron TVs
“Sony Trinitron TVs, known for their unparalleled quality, range in price from $100 to $500 and are especially coveted by retro gamers,” Paddock said.
Texas Instruments Speak & Spell
“Last but not least,” Paddock said, “the Texas Instruments Speak & Spell, an ’80s educational toy, can be sold for anywhere between $50 and $300, proving that vintage doesn’t always mean outdated.”
Final Take To GO: Selling Vintage Electronics
The bottom line is that selling your vintage electronics is currently easy because everyone is longing for simpler times.
“Platforms like eBay and Etsy are popular choices for selling vintage electronics,” Paddock said. “These sites allow sellers to reach a broad audience of collectors and enthusiasts. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are also options if you prefer to deal locally. Meanwhile, specialized forums and collector groups can be great places to connect with potential buyers who truly appreciate the value of your vintage items.”
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
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