Your parents had no idea what they were throwing away.
The 1970s produced some of the most collectible household items in American history — and most of it ended up in landfills. But if any of it survived in your family’s basement or storage unit, you could be sitting on life-changing money right now.
Star Wars Action Figures
From 1977 to 1979 are the holy grail. An original Darth Vader figure still in the packaging can sell for $5,000 to $30,000. Even loose figures without boxes sell for $50 to $500 each depending on the character. If your family kept any Star Wars toys from back then, treat them like precious jewels.
Atari 2600 Game Cartridges
Are back with a vengeance. Rare games like “Air Raid” have sold for over $33,000. Even common games in original boxes sell for $20 to $200 each. A full working Atari console with games can bring $300 to $800 easily.
Lava Lamps
In original working condition from the early 1970s sell for $150 to $500 depending on color and brand. The Lava Lite brand originals are most sought after.
8-Track Tape Players
In working condition are pulling $100 to $400 on eBay right now. Collectors love the ones with the wooden paneling finish. Pair it with original 8-track tapes and the price goes up fast.
Macramé Wall Hangings
Yes, seriously — are having a massive comeback. Large original 1970s pieces in good condition sell for $200 to $600 on Etsy. Interior designers are snapping these up for clients paying premium prices.
Vintage Tupperware
In rare 1970s colors and shapes is wildly collectible. The “Wonderlier” bowl set in harvest gold or avocado green sells for $80 to $300 for a complete set. People are obsessed.
Original Pet Rock Kits
With the box and pamphlet intact are worth $100 to $500. It sounds insane. But that is the collector market and nobody is complaining.
Fondue Sets
From the 1970s in original packaging sell for $50 to $200. The copper ones with the original forks and ceramic pots are especially popular with mid-century modern collectors right now.
Disco-Era Clothing and Accessories
Especially unworn pieces with original tags — are selling for serious money in vintage fashion circles. A vintage Halston or Bob Mackie piece can pull $500 to $5,000 at the right auction.
Go check your storage unit. Call your relatives. The 1970s are officially worth more than anyone ever expected.
