14 Vintage Items From Grandma’s Kitchen Worth a Lot of Money

• Grandma’s house is full of vintage charm, especially when it comes to the kitchen.
• Designers reveal the antique items hiding in grandma’s kitchen that may be worth a lot of money.

A trip to grandma’s house typically involves a home cooked meal in the heart of the home: the kitchen. While it might be difficult to keep your eyes off the main course, you should take a closer look at the surrounding china and decor.

Whether it’s vintage glassware, embroidered linens, or cast iron cookware, there are probably a few items hiding in grandma’s kitchen that are worth a lot of money.

Ahead, designers reveal the valuable antique finds and collectibles you might not even know are there. Read on for 14 hidden gems to keep an eye out for next time your munching on grandma’s homemade cookies.

Quirky cabbageware china is having a moment. “These colorful, highly detailed ceramics are increasingly collectible. Majolica pieces from the 19th century can go for high prices, while Bordallo Pinheiro’s whimsical designs have surged in popularity, especially among younger collectors. Dodie Thayer’s cabbageware is especially prized—handmade and harder to find, her pieces can command significant sums at auction and from collectors,” says Liz Williams, founder and principal designer of Liz Williams Interiors.

Still a household name today, it’s no surprise older Pyrex pieces can be worth hundreds. “Mid-century Pyrex in patterns like ‘Butterprint,’ ‘Gooseberry,’ and ‘Pink Daisy’ have a cult following. A complete nesting bowl set in great condition can go for $250–$600, and some rare Cinderella casserole dishes have sold for over $1,000. Bonus points for lids and anything in turquoise, pink, or limited runs,” says Heather French of French & French Interiors.

If grandma loves colorful design, chances are she might have jadeite glassware lying around. “These iconic green mixing bowls were once a staple in Americana kitchens, and some pieces in pristine condition fetch hundreds. We love their cheerful color, which evokes a playful yet timeless feeling, and of course reminds us of being in our grandmother’s kitchen,” says Sara Hillery of Sara Hillery Interior Design.

While it definitely depends on the brand, grandma’s vintage sterling silver flatware shouldn’t be overlooked. “That fancy silverware pulled out only on holidays? It could be worth its weight in, well, silver. Brands like Gorham, Wallace, and Towle can fetch $800–$8,000+ for full sets, depending on the pattern and weight. Even mismatched pieces can bring $30–$80 each,” says French.

A pancheon—or a wide, shallow mixing bowl—is another hidden gem to look out for. “Originally used for bread-making or separating cream, these weighty earthenware bowls are both practical and sculptural. With their rich glaze and gentle wear, they make striking centerpieces,” says Kate Cox of HÁM Interiors.

Best known for their decorative glassware, Valencia Culver is a classic. “Valencia Culver glassware has seemed to maintain its popularity throughout the years and can definitely fetch a pretty penny. Again, it is most valuable if it comes in mint condition, and in full sets,” says Kate Pearce of Kate Pearce Vintage.

That decorative doily or table runner could be worth more than you think. “Hand-embroidered tea towels, aprons, and tablecloths in good condition can sell for $20–$100 each, and full sets or pristine pieces go even higher. Stylists and collectors snap them up fast. I’ve been collecting these since I was a teenager, and not only are they worth more, but the quality of the fabric is just better for the day-to-day in a kitchen,” says French.

Typically white or off-white in color, milk glass is often used for tableware and other decorative items. “Produced in the late 19th and 20th centuries by companies like Fenton, Westmoreland, and Anchor Hocking, milk glass pieces—especially hobnail vases, cake stands, and covered dishes—are now highly collectible. Rare patterns and well-preserved sets often sell well above their original prices,” says Williams.

Used to bake cakes and make Jell-O, copper molds were a go-to back in the day. “Copper molds and pans are also worth keeping on your radar. Whether hanging from a rack or styled on a shelf, they’re as decorative as they are practical,” says Cox.

Whether placed on the windowsill or used as a charming centerpiece, Jean Roger’s frog planters are certainly eye-catching. “Jean Roger’s whimsical ceramic frog planters, especially mid-century pieces made in Paris, are beloved by collectors for their playful designs and artistry. They come in many different colors and sizes and have become highly sought-after decorative accents, often fetching impressive prices at auction or in antique shops,” says Williams.

Often handcrafted from a single piece of wood, antique dough bowls are typically used for mixing dough and letting it rise. “These seemingly simple, hand-carved bowls are highly sought-after and will never go out of style. They are especially popular at the moment, as they fit into nearly any design style from minimalist to eclectic to farmhouse, and add such a great organic vibe to the kitchen,” says Pearce.

Cast iron cookware is undeniably charming, even if it requires a bit more scrubbing to keep clean. “An ultimate cooking pan, if by certain brands like Wagner or Lodge (made in the beginning of the 20th century), is more superior to the ones made today and is not only valuable, but also cooks better,” says Evan Krenzien and Pierce Jordan of Shane & Pierce.

Ironically, depression glass—once made to be inexpensive—is now considered a valuable collectible. “Despite its humble origins, originating in the Depression Era, this colorful glassware is beloved for its nostalgia and historical significance. These very collectible pieces come in a variety of colors, with specific rare patterns and colors which can surprise in value,” says Hillery.

Depending on the condition, crystal stemware—especially as a full set—can sell for quite a bit. “Traditionally speaking, when couples got married in the past, it was time to give them items like crystal stemware. It’s strictly for entertainment purposes, and many of these items have a very high value,” says Alexandra Azat of Plaster & Patina.

Source: Home Ideas - goodhousekeeping.com