Old treasures can lead to new financial gains.
An investment expert is urging financially strained Americans to rummage through their basements and junk drawers for forgotten items like books, gadgets, and games that might now be surprisingly valuable.
“Many people toss out stuff that could support their retirement in just a few short years,” says Adam Koplucki, founder of real world investor. “In fact, certain everyday things lying around could eventually be worth more than your entire stock portfolio by 2030.”
Items once taken for granted are now in high demand, especially first-generation Apple products.
Take the original iPhone from 2007, for instance. Initially priced at $499, mint-condition units are now fetching over $20,000 at auction, according to Koplucki. He even suggests that by 2030, such a model could top $50,000.
This may sound unreal, but Koplucki’s projections appear modest. Back in 2023, a first-gen 8GB iPhone sold for a staggering $63,356.40.
Additionally, an ultra-rare 4GB iPhone 1 from the same year sold for an astounding $190,372.80.
Another remarkable example involves a still-sealed copy of Nintendo’s Super Mario Bros. that was tucked away in a desk drawer since 1986. It was sold for an impressive $660,000.
The U.S. collectibles market is projected to hit $62 billion in 2024 and shows no signs of diminishing despite this year’s economic challenges. Looking to the future, it’s expected to reach $83.7 billion by 2030, growing steadily at 5.3% annually.
Nostalgic items from the late 20th century are also commanding outrageous prices. Koplucki notes that many aren’t aware that their childhood Star Wars figures or Pokemon cards could serve as sizable down payments on a house today. For example, original Transformers toys in unopened boxes from the ’80s might sell for about $20,000 each. A first edition Harry Potter book, which was originally under $20, can now bring in over $50,000.
“Some of the rarest Nintendo titles from that era can exceed $100,000,” he added. For perspective, a sealed copy of Super Mario Bros. sold for $2 million in 2021, despite its original price being around $30.
Koplucki believes that items are more likely to achieve maximum value—up to ten times higher—if kept in their original packaging. But don’t lose hope if your collectibles appear somewhat used; items in “like new” condition are still highly sought after.
For anyone who stumbles upon a potentially valuable item, Koplucki recommends having it appraised before selling it online. “Thanks to online auction platforms, selling your collectibles is easier than ever, but knowing the true worth of what you have can make all the difference,” he emphasized.
