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Thrift stores can also hold pieces with high resale value. As more people shop secondhand, whether to save money, reduce waste, or find better-made items, certain categories have become especially sought after by collectors, designers, and resellers.

The resale market continues to grow, and with that growth comes opportunity. Items that were once common household staples are now harder to find, and when they do show up at thrift stores, they’re often priced far below their current value. Knowing what to look for can make a big difference.

Here are several thrift store finds that are often worth holding onto before passing by.

Original Oil Paintings

Original paintings still appear in thrift stores, often mistaken for decorative prints. Signs like visible brushstrokes, canvas backing, and older frames can help distinguish original work. Even paintings by unknown artists can hold value, especially if they show skill or age. Some resell well through galleries, auction sites, or online marketplaces.

Antique Pedestals

Pedestals made from wood, marble, or metal are increasingly popular for both display and interior styling. Older examples, especially those with traditional proportions or craftsmanship, tend to hold value. Because they’re no longer mass-produced, even simple designs can resell well.

Vintage Picture Frames

Older picture frames are often worth more than the artwork inside them. Hand-carved wood, gilt finishes, and unique materials can signal value. Frames from earlier design periods are commonly purchased to pair with original art and can sell individually for a surprising amount.

Vintage Sporting Goods

Certain sporting items, such as early baseball gloves, wooden golf clubs, or fishing equipment, are collectible. Items connected to specific eras or recognizable brands tend to be most valuable. Condition matters, but rarity and age often matter more.

Mismatched China

Single pieces of china from well-known makers are frequently sought after, even without a full set. Plates, cups, and serving pieces from established manufacturers can resell well if they’re in good condition and part of a discontinued pattern.

Signed or Distinctive Art

Artwork with signatures, stamps, or clear stylistic markers can be worth researching. Even unsigned pieces may have value if they align with known art movements or techniques. A quick check for markings or labels can sometimes uncover more than expected.

Quilts

Handmade quilts, especially older ones, are collectible for their craftsmanship and materials. Age, pattern, fabric, and condition all influence value. Quilts tied to specific regions or time periods tend to be especially desirable.

Art Glass

Glass pieces that are hand-blown or marked by known makers often go unnoticed in thrift stores. Vases, bowls, and sculptural pieces can hold value if they show signs of craftsmanship, such as air bubbles or unique color patterns.

Coffee Table Books

Large-format books on art, design, photography, or fashion often retain value. First editions, limited print runs, and books in excellent condition are particularly sought after. Even common titles can resell if they’re no longer widely available.

Silver and Gold Jewelry

Older jewelry made from silver or gold should always be checked for hallmarks. Metal content alone can determine value, but design, age, and brand can increase it significantly. Vintage costume jewelry from certain eras is also collectible.

Vintage Fiestaware

Fiestaware from earlier production periods is collectible, especially in discontinued colors. Markings on the bottom can help identify age. Individual pieces can sell well depending on color, condition, and rarity.

Glass Candlesticks

Older glass candlesticks, particularly art glass or crystal, are often underpriced. Pieces with distinctive shapes, heavier weight, or unusual colors are worth a closer look, especially if they’re well-made.

Architectural Corbels and Brackets

Decorative brackets and corbels made from wood, metal, or stone are popular for restoration and interior use. Older examples with detailed carving or solid materials often resell well, particularly for home projects.

Vintage Bookends

Bookends from earlier design periods, especially those made from brass, marble, or carved wood, are collectible. Sets with strong design elements or recognizable styles tend to be in steady demand.

Spongeware

Spongeware pottery, particularly from the 19th and early 20th centuries, can be valuable. Even single bowls or pitchers can resell well if they’re clearly marked and in good condition. Pattern rarity and age play a large role in pricing.