7 Valuable Antiques You Should Never Pass Up

Tilt-Top Tables

While once considered purely practical, antique tilt-top tables are coveted today for their space-saving design and quality construction.

"One of my favorite heirloom pieces is a round tilt-top table that belonged to my grandmother," says Jennifer Prince, owner of It's Found Vintage. "For a long time, it was simply a convenient side table that I could put together in a pinch, but it really got my attention when I started seeing them at antique shops for over $1,000."

Sideboards and Cabinets

Whether you're displaying ceramics or stowing art supplies, antique sideboards and cabinets are built to handle it all.

"These pieces marry form and function so perfectly—you get the kind of character and warmth that only comes with age, plus practical storage that works for real life," says Kathy Kuo, designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home. "The craftsmanship is unparalleled, and they feel just as fitting in a traditional dining room as they do grounding a modern entryway."

Unique Bar Carts

For those who love to host—or just love a good cocktail—a vintage bar cart could be just what your home needs. Prince especially likes looking for playful shapes and silhouettes.

"I [couldn’t] pass up a 1950's, German-made, hidden bar cart that looks like a sideways barrel on wheels," she says. "I had never seen one, and although I paid a pretty penny at an estate shop, I know it’s worth quite a bit more than what I paid. Whether I ever decide to sell it is another story!"

Desks With Rich Wood Grains

From ornate secretary desks to sleek mid-century tables, there are plenty of antique options to upgrade your work from home setup.

"There's something so grounding about sitting down at a piece of heirloom furniture that has its own story," Kuo says. "I especially love pieces with rich wood grain—think walnut, mahogany, or burl wood—because the surface itself is art."

Original Artwork

Original art is often first on a designer's shopping list. "It's always a good idea to invest in antique artwork, like still life paintings, botanical illustrations, or even vintage photography," Kuo says. "Unlike art prints, original artwork only becomes more valuable and meaningful over time."

It's Prince's favorite thing to look for as well. She finds that almost any original piece can hold its value, regardless of the name attached to it.

"My walls are filled with paintings, some of which cost as little as $1," she says. "I truly enjoy giving wall space to one-of-a-kind pieces that someone poured their heart and soul into. I also shop for art when I travel—I recently tucked several pieces into my suitcase after flea marketing in Zurich."

McCoy Planters

Adorned in intricate moldings and pastel glazes, McCoy pottery is a worthwhile investment that doesn't take up as much space as a piece of furniture.

"Over the years, I’ve found several McCoy planters—both collectible and valuable—at estate and yard sales, so I use them when it’s time to replant," says Prince.

Unexpected Features

Not all pieces need to feel refined or elegant to hold value. Sometimes, it's just about that unique, weird factor—whether it's a table with paw legs, or a fruit-shaped bowl.

"While strange things aren’t necessarily a category—items can range from busts and paintings to furniture and chandeliers—if something speaks to you, why not incorporate it into your space?" Prince says. "Bonus points if it makes you chuckle each day."