The 1970s were a decade of bold styles, cultural shifts, and iconic products that have since become collectibles. While some ’70s items were everyday essentials, others were ahead of their time, and now both types fetch impressive prices.
Now might be the perfect time to dig through your attic and see if you’re sitting on one of these hidden treasures.
Vinyl Records from Iconic Bands
Legendary artists like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and Fleetwood Mac released some of their best work in the ‘70s when vinyl records were a staple. First pressings or rare editions, especially those in mint condition, can now sell for hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.
For example, a first-edition Dark Side of the Moon album is highly sought after by collectors. If you’ve got a stash of vintage vinyl, it might be time to dust it off.
Star Wars Action Figures
When Star Wars debuted in 1977, the accompanying action figures became instant hits with kids and collectors. Today, original figures, especially rare ones like a 1978 vinyl cape Jawa or a double-telescoping lightsaber Luke Skywalker, can fetch astronomical prices. In mint condition, these toys have sold for tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
Vintage Pyrex Dishes
Every household had Pyrex kitchenware in the ‘70s, but certain patterns and colors have become highly collectible. Designs like Butterfly Gold, Daisy, and Snowflake are particularly desirable. Complete sets or rare pieces in pristine condition can sell for hundreds of dollars each.
What was once a practical kitchen tool is now a beloved symbol of retro style.
Atari Video Game Consoles
When the Atari 2600 launched in 1977, it revolutionized gaming, and original consoles in working condition are now highly prized. Games from the era, like Space Invaders and Adventure, also hold significant value, especially if they’re complete with the original packaging. Some rare game cartridges, such as Air Raid, have sold for thousands of dollars.
1970s Concert Posters
Once the essential of every teenager’s bedroom wall, concert posters from the ’70s are now valuable pieces of music history. Posters promoting performances by artists like The Rolling Stones and the Grateful Dead are particularly sought after.
Original prints in good condition can sell for thousands of dollars, especially if they feature unique artwork. They capture the spirit of an unforgettable era.
PEZ Dispensers
These simple candy holders are now hugely popular with collectors, proving that even small items can hold big value. Certain designs of PEZ dispensers from the ’70s have skyrocketed in value. Characters from popular franchises like Disney and superheroes are especially prized, with rare models selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Lava Lamps
Nothing says ‘70s quite like a lava lamp. Most were mass-produced, but certain models, especially early ones in unique colors, are now collector’s items. Original Mathmos or Lava Lite lamps from the era can sell for hundreds of dollars, particularly if they’re in good working order.
1970s Lunchboxes
These nostalgic items are a reminder of simpler times and have become a hot commodity for vintage enthusiasts. Metal lunchboxes featuring TV shows, cartoons, and movies were all the rage in the 1970s.
Designs featuring characters from The Brady Bunch, Star Trek, or The Six Million Dollar Man could fetch hundreds of dollars if the lunchbox still has its matching thermos and is in good condition.
Fisher-Price Little People Sets
These toys are a reminder of childhood for many and have become a nostalgic treasure for collectors. Fisher-Price Little People playsets of the ‘70s are highly collectible today. Sets like the Little People Farm or the Little People Garage are especially valuable if they’re complete and in good condition.
Rotary Telephones
Although rotary phones seem outdated now, their retro charm has made them much sought after. Distinctive colored models from the 1970s, like the avocado green or harvest gold styles, are especially in demand. If the phone is still functional, it can fetch even more on the vintage market.
Board Games from the ’70s
Vintage board games can be worth a surprising amount, especially if they’re complete and in good condition. Games like Mystery Date, The Game of Life, or Stay Alive are highly collectible.
Limited-edition versions or games that are no longer in production are even more valuable. These games represent a bygone era of family fun and are treasured by collectors.
Vintage Adidas or Puma Sneakers
It was the ‘70s when sneakers first became a fashion statement, with brands like Adidas and Puma leading the charge. Original pairs of iconic styles, such as Adidas Gazelle or Puma Clyde, are now coveted by sneaker collectors.
If the shoes are unworn or still in their original packaging, their value can soar. Retro sneaker culture has made these ’70s styles more desirable than ever.
Comic Books from the Bronze Age
The ‘70s marked the Bronze Age of comic books, when darker storylines and complex characters made their debut. First appearances or key issues from this era, such as The Incredible Hulk #181 (Wolverine’s first appearance), can fetch thousands of dollars in mint condition.
Vintage Cameras
Mobile phones and digital photography haven’t managed to kill off the popularity of film cameras. Models from the 1970s, such as Polaroids or early 35mm models, have become popular with enthusiasts. Polaroid SX-70s and Nikon F2s are particularly valuable if they’re in working condition. These cameras are prized for their function and their aesthetic appeal.
Bean Bag Chairs
While they might not fetch thousands of dollars, vintage bean bag chairs in good condition can still bring in a surprising amount. They’re a symbol of 1970s comfort and style, now making a comeback as a retro decor item.
Original models in vibrant colors or unique patterns are in demand by collectors and interior designers.
Vintage Watches
Collectors are paying top dollar for wristwatches from the ‘70s, particularly those from iconic brands like Seiko, Timex, or Omega. Styles that reflect the era’s bold designs, such as digital watches or models with funky colors, are the most popular. Rare or limited-edition pieces can fetch thousands of dollars, especially if they’re still in working condition.