Although you can’t put a price tag on childhood memories, you can certainly monetize nostalgia as either a seller or buyer of popular collectibles. People will spend thousands of dollars on mint-condition Star Wars action figures, baseball cards or vintage cars.
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However, when it comes to predicting which types of toys or trading cards will be worth a fortune in the future, it may take some investing foresight and a bit of luck. For example, most Beanie Babies, once highly sought after by collectors now fetch no higher a price than buying it at a retailer. On the other hand, some fine art, classic cars or sports memorabilia collections withstand the flash-in-the-pan trends and continue to appreciate in value.
The bottom line is collectibles worth investing in will always be pitted against time, but starting a collection with the following items could earn you some big money after a decade or so.
Vintage Technology and Gadgets
In this digital day and age of replacing your computer or phone with the next model as soon as it’s released, it may seem counterintuitive to hold onto your old electronics. However, certain older tech can have a hefty price tag attached.
If you have an old Apple computer, you could be sitting on a gold mine as the Apple II can get upwards of $5,000 at auctions. The original Apple 1 can be worth anywhere between a whopping $300,000 to $905,000 depending on its condition.
Here are some techy tips to consider:
- What To Collect: Early-generation smartphones, classic video game consoles, vintage computers (like the Apple I or II) and first-edition smartwatches, as well as iPods that are somehow ancient already, such as the iPod Nano, iPod Shuffle and of course original iPod Classic (with some already selling for over $200).
- Why It’s Valuable: As technology rapidly evolves, early models become relics of a bygone era. Nostalgia, rarity and the historical significance of these devices drive their value.
- Future Prospects: As each generation becomes nostalgic for their childhood tech, demand increases, potentially raising the value of these items.
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Limited Edition Sneakers
True sneaker-heads would take a pair of “The Last Dance” Air Jordan 13 over sports cards any day. Nike tends to have a chokehold on sneaker collectors as a majority of the most expensive and valuable shoes come from them in the form of such shoes as the Dynasty Collection, which is estimated to be worth upwards of $8 million. Maybe you should grab two pairs of Nike limited releases now as they have proven to grow in value over time if not worn.
- What To Collect: Limited-release sneakers from brands like Nike, Louis Vuitton, Adidas and Yeezy. Streetwear from Supreme, Off-White and other high-demand brands can also be valuable.
- Why It’s Valuable: Exclusivity and brand collaboration (like Nike x Off-White) create a high demand among collectors and fashion enthusiasts.
- Future Prospects: The resale market for limited edition sneakers and streetwear is already booming and is likely to continue growing.
Contemporary Art Collections
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and when it comes to buying and selling art, this holds even more true. For contemporary art especially, knowing what is going to skyrocket in value can be tricky, but here are some ideas to help you get started:
- What To Collect: Works by emerging artists showing promise, limited edition prints and pieces from niche art movements all tend to go up in value over 10 years.
- Why It’s Valuable: Contemporary art can gain significant value if the artist becomes renowned or, unfortunately, should the artist pass away. Limited editions are especially valuable due to their rarity.
- Future Prospects: As the artist’s reputation grows, so does the value of their work. Contemporary art can be a high-risk, high-reward investment.
First-Edition Books and Comics
Here’s just another example of why reading is good for you. If you are an avid bookworm, collecting rare books or first editions can not only lean into your passions but also earn you some cash.
A picture may be worth a thousand words, unless those words are written a 2019 pristine copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone which fetched roughly $90,000 at auction or one of the 22 known first-edition copies of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, with one copy being auctioned for an estimated price of between $2 and $3 million.
Here are some ideas you should bookmark for future investments:
- What To Collect: First editions of modern classic novels, debut novels by now-famous authors and vintage comic books (especially first appearances of popular characters).
- Why It’s Valuable: First editions from authors still working today like J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series or Stephen King’s horror franchise can be incredibly valuable, especially with original dust jackets. Keep an eye out for popular works of even the last five years and present to get that first edition book while it’s still on the cheaper side.
- Future Prospects: The market for rare books and comics has consistently been strong, with certain editions fetching millions at auction.
Specialty and Vintage Wines
There is rarely an occasion that wine doesn’t enhance, but enjoying a glass of wine now and then is much different than actively seeking out rare vintages to collect and not consume. Whether you’re a sommelier or just a connoisseur, finding a limited-edition bottle from a renowned vineyard is a “grape” investment.
- What To Collect: Fine wines from reputable vineyards, limited edition bottles and vintages are known for their exceptional quality.
- Why It’s Valuable: Wine can improve with age, and certain vintages are known for their longevity and flavor development.
- Future Prospects: As bottles from a particular year become rarer, their value can skyrocket, especially if they are from a renowned vineyard.
Final Take To GO: Tips for Future Collectors
Collecting can be much more than just a hobby; it can be an investment strategy that requires insight, patience and a bit of luck. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of vintage tech or the aesthetic appeal of contemporary art, your collection could potentially yield significant returns a decade down the line.
Remember, the most valuable collections are often those gathered with passion and preserved with care. If you are staring into your financial future and want to get started on a long-term strategy, here are some tips to consider:
- Research Thoroughly: Understand what makes an item valuable and stay informed about market trends.
- Preserve Condition: The value of collectibles often hinges on their condition. Store them properly to maintain their quality.
- Be Patient: Collecting as an investment is a long game. Don’t expect quick returns.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Collections That Could Be Worth Big Money in 10 Years
