This one is the ultimate “attic story.” In November 2025, a copy of Superman No. 1 (1939) reportedly sold for $9.12 million, becoming the most expensive comic ever sold.

You don’t need a nine-million-dollar book to be sitting on value. First appearances, early superhero issues, and well-preserved vintage comics can be worth a surprising amount, especially if they’re professionally graded.

Original Star Wars figures from the late 1970s and early 1980s are a collector favourite. Rare versions, early releases, and unopened figures can sell for thousands, and in some cases much more.

The retro game market has gone wild. A sealed copy of Super Mario 64 sold for $1.56 million at auction in 2021. And a rare Nintendo PlayStation prototype sold for $360,000 in 2020.

Most people won’t have those exact unicorns, but sealed games, limited releases, and rare accessories can still be worth real money.

Yes, VHS. Certain factory-sealed tapes have sold for big numbers, especially rare editions and cult titles. A near-mint-plus copy of The Goonies sold for $50,000 at auction in 2022.

Important note: sealed and graded copies are where the huge prices tend to happen. Opened tapes usually sell for far less.

Sports cards are one of the biggest “wait, that’s worth WHAT?” categories. In 2022, a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card sold for $12.6 million.

You don’t need a record-breaking card to have value. Graded rookies, short prints, and rare parallels can add up fast.

Pokémon cards are a modern classic, and the highest-end cards have sold for six figures and beyond. Even if you don’t have a headline card, early sets and well-kept holo cards can be worth checking.

Some out-of-print board games and special editions can sell for thousands, especially if they’re complete and in great condition. Missing pieces usually crush value, so “complete in box” matters a lot here.

Metal lunch boxes can be surprisingly valuable, especially those tied to iconic franchises and characters. Condition matters, and the thermos can make a big difference.

Pins, posters, banners, and campaign items connected to the women’s suffrage movement remain collectible and historically important. Specialty auctions tend to be the best place for pricing these.

A great vintage watch can be a serious asset. Collectors look for strong brands, original parts, and clean documentation. Even if it isn’t a rare Rolex-level piece, it can still be worth a professional look.

Vinyl is back in a big way, and certain rare pressings can sell for thousands. Condition, pressing details, and authenticity matter more than the artist alone.

This one surprises people. Some vintage Crayola boxes and retired colours have collector value. Most won’t be worth a fortune, but it’s a fun category to check before you toss old school supplies.

First editions can be valuable, especially with original dust jackets and signatures. If you think you have a true first edition, it’s worth verifying before you list it.

Authentic mid-century pieces continue to sell well. Designer originals can be worth a lot, but even quality vintage pieces can have strong resale value if they’re in good shape.

• Don’t clean aggressively
  Over-cleaning can remove markings or damage original finishes
• Keep complete sets together
  Boxes, manuals, accessories, and inserts often matter
• Take clear photos
  Front, back, close-ups, labels, and anything unique
• Check sold prices, not list prices
  “Sold” is reality, “for sale” is wishful thinking

Sources

The Guardian: Superman No. 1 becomes most expensive comic ever sold

Heritage Auctions: Super Mario 64 sells for $1.56 million

ESPN: 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card sells for $12.6 million

WWNY: Sealed VHS auction results (includes The Goonies $50,000 sale)

Sotheby’s Auctions