8 Vintage Kitchen Items Worth Way More Than You Think

We run to thrift stores to get our hands on beautiful home décor and furniture. However, there are practical items to keep a lookout for too—namely when it comes to the kitchen.

Whether it’s copper cookware or a Pyrex container, certain vintage products add value not just to your kitchen, but also to your wallet. Curious how to sift through the noise and discover a prized possession? We asked experts about the valuable items that often fly under the radar.

Bene Raia, auctioneer, appraiser, and founder of Raia Auctioneers
Vanessa Murray, owner of Oakland-based vintage collective Narrative

01 of 08

Cast-Iron Skillets

A cast iron skillet resting on a red and white checkered cloth — Getty Images

When it comes to cookware that can handle it all, it's hard to beat a cast-iron skillet.

"The two most recognizable names are Wagner and Griswold," says Bene Raia, auctioneer, appraiser, and founder of Raia Auctioneers. "These two companies made cast-iron skillets that have a very smooth finish [and is] hard to duplicate."

According to Raia, more common Griswold skillets can sell for about $200, while rarer pieces like the spider logo skillet or large block logo number 13 can sell for up to $5,000.

02 of 08

French Copper Pots

Detail of three copper pots hanging against a dark gray wall — Getty Images

Copper pots and pans remain coveted, as they marry beautiful craftsmanship with extraordinary performance. French varieties are a particular favorite of Vanessa Murray, owner of vintage collective Narrative.

"Hand-hammered, heavy-gauge, and built to last for generations, they are both tools and sculpture. Their beauty, history, and rarity make them true heirloom objects," Murray says. "E. Dehillerin is the legendary Parisian maker of copper pots with small sauce pans going for around $300 and larger stock pots up to $1,500."

03 of 08

Jadeite Glassware

With its signature milky green hue, jadeite glassware is one of Raia's favorite kitchen collectibles (and also a favorite of Martha's).

"In my opinion, jadeite is absolutely the holy grail of kitchen décor," Raia says. "During the Depression era, it was considered cheap glass and was given away as a novelty. Now, it is absolutely sought after, very desirable, and highly collected."

The best-known makers of jadeite to look for include Fire King and McKee, as they have some of the highest resale value.

04 of 08

Dansk Pepper Mills

Wooden pepper mills in various designs arranged on a white surface — Courtesy of Etsy

Dansk, an American brand born in the 1950s and inspired by Scandinavian design, continues to be cherished—especially for its more unique, original pieces.

"Dansk produced a wide range of solid teak kitchen and barware that is as sculptural as it is functional," Murray says. "Many of these iconic pieces were designed by Jens Quistgaard, who created over 50 distinct pepper mill forms alone."

Today, Quistgaard's mills have skyrocketed in value, often ranging from $100 to over $1,000 each. "[They] are passionately sought after by dedicated collectors," she says.

Heath Ceramics

A display of ceramic dishes and bowls arranged on a surface — Courtesy of Heath Ceramics

Vintage Heath Ceramics dinnerware is known to be very durable, lasting for years and even decades without a scratch. But it's not just the construction that stands out.

"It embodies mid-century California modernism at its most refined, combining timeless forms with richly tactile glazes," Murray says. "Each piece was made in small batches by hand, giving it a level of craft, depth, and individuality that mass production can’t replicate."

The brand's iconic design legacy and limited production make original pieces increasingly valuable—so be sure to check the bottom of ceramics for the Heath stamp. "Complete sets of serviceware go for up to $3,000," Murray says.

06 of 08

Enamel Steel Pots and Pans

Several enamel pots with lids displayed on a wooden shelf — Getty Images

Along with pepper mills, Dansk is known for its original enamel steel pots and pans. Many are coated in a vibrant pops of red or blue, while maintaining a lightweight, long-lasting construction.

"They were designed in the 1950s and are incredibly well‐made," says Raia. "Some pieces currently sell for hundreds of dollars."

Vintage Le Creuset cookware is similarly collectible—especially its enamel Dutch ovens.

07 of 08

Pyrex

"I absolutely love all the bright colors and the patterns of vintage Pyrex," says Raia. "It's functional and highly desirable, with some pieces, such as the pink Daisy, selling for hundreds of dollars, while the hard-to-find pieces like the Lucky in Love can go for thousands."

While some vintage dinnerware contains lead, Raia notes that you can use vintage Pyrex without fear since they're still food-safe today. If it is a concern, use them as beautiful display pieces.

08 of 08

Hobart Stand Mixers

A vintage stand mixer displayed on a tabletop with beater attachments nearby — Getty Images

While KitchenAid is a modern favorite when it comes to baking, Hobart reigned supreme in decades past.

"[It's] the king of stand mixers, which was a staple in any vintage kitchen," Raia says. "A wonderful vintage Hobart mixer is valued at almost $1,000."

Originals usually have the Hobart logo engraved on the metal band, bowl, or base of the mixer. They can last for decades.