They might not have seemed like much back then, but the ‘70s left behind a surprising number of collectible gems. Collectors now hunt down these pieces with serious enthusiasm, so a lot of people are holding onto a small fortune without even knowing it. If you’ve ever dug through those old boxes in the attic, you might’ve passed by a few of these vintage treasures.
Star Wars Action Figures
Surprisingly, those little plastic toys that used to rattle around in toy chests are now worth hundreds – or even thousands – of dollars. Star Wars action figures from the late ’70s, especially the first batch made by Kenner, have become incredibly sought after by collectors.
One of the most valuable is the rocket-firing Boba Fett prototype, which never made it to shelves but still somehow ended up in a few lucky hands. Figures in unopened packaging are the big winners, but even loose, well-kept ones can pull in good money today.
Vintage McDonald’s Glasses
People used to grab these collectible glasses without thinking much about it – just another freebie with a burger meal. But now, complete sets of McDonald’s glasses featuring Ronald McDonald and his crew can sell for well over $100, especially if they’re from 1977 or earlier.
Levi’s “Big E” Jeans
Back in the day, people wore Levi’s until they were threadbare, never realizing that a small detail on the tag could turn them into collector’s items decades later. Jeans with the capital “E” on the red tab (known as “Big E” Levi’s) were phased out around 1971, and now they’re incredibly valuable.
Pong Consoles
Nobody thought twice about tossing these into the donation bin when Nintendo came along, but early Pong systems have bounced back in a big way. The original Atari Pong console, first released in the mid-’70s, is now a classic piece of gaming history. Working versions in the original box fetch higher prices, especially if the instruction manual is still inside.
Tupperware Sets
Here’s one that might catch you off guard. While most people associate Tupperware with leftovers and potluck dinners, vintage sets in groovy ’70s colors like mustard yellow, burnt orange, and avocado green have become popular collectibles.
Vinyl Records
Some albums from the ’70s are worth more than you’d think – especially if you kept them clean and in their original sleeves. Records from iconic artists like Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, and David Bowie are still hot on the collector scene.
Limited pressings, misprints, and rare international versions can drive the price way up. Even more common records can bring in money if they’re in near-mint condition.
Pyrex Dishes
Glass mixing bowls and casserole dishes probably don’t scream “collector’s item,” but certain Pyrex patterns are worth real cash. The “Butterprint,” “Gooseberry,” and “Friendship” patterns from the ’70s are especially in demand. Sets in vibrant condition, with no chips or wear, can sell for hundreds of dollars to the right buyer.
Fisher-Price Toys
You might remember dragging these around the living room or hauling them to Grandma’s house in a plastic suitcase. Vintage Fisher-Price toys, especially the Little People playsets from the ’70s, have become surprisingly valuable. Sets like the barn, parking garage, or castle are hot items among collectors and parents who want their kids to play with what they grew up loving.
Comic Books
Chances are, someone in your family had a pile of comic books growing up – maybe they’re still boxed up in a closet somewhere. Issues from the ’70s featuring superheroes like Spider-Man, Batman, or the X-Men are particularly valuable if they’re early appearances or in great condition.
Atari 2600 Games
Video game fans are always on the hunt for vintage cartridges, and the Atari 2600 is a top choice. While the console itself is collectible, the real money is in the rare games. Titles like Air Raid, Red Sea Crossing, or limited-edition versions can fetch hundreds or even thousands if they’re in good shape.
Vintage Concert T-Shirts
No one thought their tour shirt from a Led Zeppelin concert would become a collector’s item – but here we are. Original concert tees from the ’70s, especially from iconic bands like The Rolling Stones, Queen, and The Who, are incredibly popular.
Collectors want authentic shirts that were sold at shows, not reprints. Faded graphics and worn cotton actually add to their charm. Depending on the band and condition, some of these shirts can sell for hundreds of dollars on vintage clothing sites.
PEZ Dispensers
At first glance, they just look like fun candy holders – but some vintage PEZ dispensers from the ’70s are serious collector gold. Dispensers shaped like obscure cartoon characters, or ones with limited production runs, can be worth a surprising amount. Certain models in their original packaging have gone for over $100.
Rotary Telephones
These clunky phones were once on every kitchen wall or hallway table, and now they’re considered retro chic. Bold-colored rotary phones – especially in pink, red, or mint green – are highly desirable as decor items and functional pieces. Some collectors even rewire them for use today. If yours still works or looks brand new, it could bring in some extra cash.
Lunch Boxes
Colorful metal lunch boxes with matching thermoses were a school kid’s pride and joy. Today, they’re hot collector’s items – especially ones that feature popular ’70s shows like The Six Million Dollar Man, The Bionic Woman, or Charlie’s Angels. Boxes in excellent condition, with minimal rust and original parts, can sell for upwards of $200. The more niche or limited the theme, the more collectors are willing to pay.
Mego Action Figures
Before modern-day superhero movies took over, Mego was making eight-inch action figures of comic book characters, TV stars, and even monsters. These toys had cloth outfits and movable joints, and many of them were lost to time.
Today, boxed figures of characters like Spider-Man, The Hulk, or Star Trek crew members can bring in hundreds of dollars. Some rarer figures fetch even more.
Board Games
Dusty boxes at the back of your closet might be more than just old fun – they could be surprisingly valuable. Vintage board games like Dark Tower, Masterpiece, and the original Dungeons & Dragons boxed sets are collector favorites. If you’ve got a complete set with all the pieces, you could be looking at a nice payout.
Advertising Signs and Thermometers
A lot of people tossed these out without thinking twice, but old advertising signs from gas stations, diners, or grocery stores are now big collectibles. Tin thermometers with soda brands or oil companies, in particular, are sought after by collectors who love Americana and retro branding. The brighter the colors and the better the condition, the more they’re worth.
This article may include content generated by AI and has been reviewed and edited by our editorial team for accuracy and clarity.