10 thrift store finds that can sell for over $100
If you've got an eye for detail and a little patience, thrift stores can be a goldmine. The trick is knowing what's worth flipping. Not every old item is valuable, but some overlooked pieces can bring in serious money-sometimes over $100.
You don't have to be an antiques expert, but a little knowledge goes a long way. These are the types of finds you should be on the lookout for next time you're browsing the shelves.
Vintage Pyrex in Rare Patterns
Certain Pyrex patterns can go for big bucks-especially limited-edition ones like "Lucky in Love" or "Butterprint" in rare colors. Condition matters, and complete sets are worth more than singles.
Flip the bowl over and look for the brand stamp and pattern name. If it's part of a discontinued or collector-favorite line, you might be holding something that sells for well over $100. Always check for chips and fading before buying.
Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Even small MCM pieces like end tables or chairs can sell for hundreds if they're in good shape. Brands like Lane, Drexel, or Heywood-Wakefield are worth learning to recognize.
Check the drawers and legs for maker marks or stickers. Even unmarked items with that signature low-profile, clean-line design are worth looking up. A quick online search can help confirm whether it's a reproduction or a true vintage piece.
Cast Iron Cookware (Especially Griswold or Wagner)
Old cast iron pans from brands like Griswold or Wagner can sell for $100+ if they're in good shape and have the right markings. Look on the bottom for logos and raised lettering.
Rust isn’t a dealbreaker-it can be cleaned-but cracks or warping are. Vintage collectors and serious home cooks love these because they cook evenly and last forever when properly maintained.
High-End Leather Bags
Authentic leather bags from brands like Coach, Dooney & Bourke, or even lesser-known vintage labels can sell fast online. Older Coach bags with the original creed and serial number are especially desirable.
Check for full-grain leather, quality stitching, and minimal damage. Clean them up with conditioner and you've got a bag that can go for well over $100, especially if it's a style that's trending again.
Vintage Denim and Workwear
Old Levi's with a capital "E" on the tag or made in the USA can bring in serious money. So can Carhartt jackets, especially if they're older or have unique stitching or tags.
Even worn or faded pieces are still valuable to collectors or resellers looking for that authentic look. You'll want to check seams, tags, and stitching for clues about the age and origin.
Turntables and Record Players
Older turntables-especially name brands like Technics, Marantz, or Pioneer-can go for over $100 if they work or can be repaired. Belt-drive models tend to be more desirable.
Even if they need minor fixes, the parts alone can be worth something. Look for models with a dust cover, intact needle, and working motor. Always plug it in before buying if the store allows it.
Old Board Games (Complete Sets)
Vintage board games like Fireball Island, HeroQuest, or early editions of Monopoly or Clue can go for $100+ if the set is complete. Even replacement pieces have value if the game is popular enough.
Check inside for all the pieces and original instructions. Limited print runs, special editions, and games from the '60s to '80s tend to be the most valuable.
Signed or First Edition Books
Hardcover books with a signed title page or a true first edition can be worth hundreds, depending on the author. First editions from well-known writers like Stephen King or Toni Morrison are especially valuable.
Look on the copyright page for the number line-if it ends in "1," it might be a first edition. And always double check that the dust jacket matches the printing. Condition matters a lot in book resale.
Vintage Cameras and Lenses
Old film cameras like the Canon AE-1, Nikon F, or Olympus OM-1 are still sought after by hobbyists and collectors. Even if they're not working, lenses and parts can sell on their own.
Check for mold in the lens and corrosion in the battery compartment. If it looks clean and the shutter clicks, you're probably looking at something that'll bring in a decent profit online.
Old Concert Tees and Band Merch
Vintage band shirts, especially from '80s and '90s tours, can go for over $100 depending on the artist. Look for single-stitch hems and tags from companies like Screen Stars or Hanes.
The more iconic the band and the rarer the tour, the better. Shirts from Metallica, Nirvana, and old hip-hop legends tend to move fast and bring in higher bids from collectors.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
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