10 Things Boomers Bought in the 1970s That Are Worth Money Now
Somewhere in an attic, basement, or garage, there may be a box of treasures from the 1970s just waiting to be rediscovered. For decades, many boomers held onto old toys, kitchenware, records, and collectibles out of habit or nostalgia. Their children often teased them for keeping so much “junk.”
But some of those everyday items have become surprisingly valuable. Collectors now pay good money for toys, dishes, and gadgets that once sold for a few dollars at the five-and-dime or department store. Nostalgia drives much of the demand, as Gen Xers and boomers try to buy back pieces of their childhood.
Values depend heavily on condition, rarity, and demand, and most items are worth far less than the headline-grabbing sales. But it can pay to check before donating or tossing anything. Here are ten things boomers bought in the 1970s that can be worth money now.
1. Original Star Wars Action Figures
When “Star Wars” hit theaters in 1977, Kenner released a line of action figures that became one of the most successful toy lines in history. Kids collected Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Han Solo, and dozens of other characters. Many played with them until the paint wore off.
Today, vintage Star Wars figures from the late 1970s and early 1980s are highly collectible. Loose figures in good condition can sell for modest amounts, while figures still sealed on their original cards can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Rare variations have sold for much more at auction.
If you have a box of old Star Wars toys, check for original packaging, accessories like tiny lightsabers, and good paint condition. These details make a big difference in value.
2. Hot Wheels Redlines
Mattel introduced Hot Wheels in 1968, and the earliest cars featured a red stripe on their tires. These “Redline” cars were made until the late 1970s. Millions of kids raced them down orange plastic tracks.
Collectors prize Redlines, especially rare colors and models in excellent condition. Some sell for hundreds of dollars, and the rarest have sold for many thousands. The famous pink Volkswagen Beach Bomb prototype is one of the most valuable Hot Wheels ever.
Look for cars with bright paint, intact wheels, and original packaging. Even common Redlines can be worth more than you might expect.
3. Vintage Pyrex
Colorful Pyrex mixing bowls and casserole dishes were a staple of 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s kitchens. Patterns like Butterprint, Gooseberry, Spring Blossom, and Butterfly Gold filled cabinets across America. Many were wedding or shower gifts.
Today, vintage Pyrex has a passionate following. Collectors hunt for complete sets, rare patterns, and promotional pieces. Some rare patterns have sold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, though most common pieces sell for less.
If you inherited your mother’s Pyrex, check the pattern and condition. Pieces without scratches or faded colors are worth more. They are among the kitchen classics that changed American cooking.
4. Comic Books
Comic books from the 1970s can be surprisingly valuable, especially issues featuring the first appearance of popular characters. “The Incredible Hulk” #181, published in 1974, includes the first full appearance of Wolverine and is one of the most valuable comics from the decade.
Comic book values depend heavily on condition. Collectors often have comics professionally graded, and high-grade copies can sell for far more than worn ones.
If you have a box of old comics, look for key issues and first appearances. Even common issues in excellent condition can have value.
5. Baseball Cards
Many boomers collected baseball cards as kids, trading them with friends and sometimes clipping them to bicycle spokes. Cards from the 1970s were produced in large numbers, so most are not worth much. But rookie cards of Hall of Fame players can be valuable.
Cards like the 1975 Topps George Brett and Robin Yount rookies, or the 1973 Topps Mike Schmidt rookie, are sought after by collectors. Condition is critical, and professionally graded cards in top shape can sell for thousands.
Before tossing an old shoebox of cards, check for rookie cards of famous players. You might be surprised.
6. Metal Lunch Boxes
In the 1970s, kids carried metal lunch boxes decorated with their favorite TV shows, movies, and cartoon characters. Popular designs featured “The Partridge Family,” “Happy Days,” “The Six Million Dollar Man,” and many others. Most came with matching thermoses.
Metal lunch boxes were phased out in the 1980s, partly over concerns about safety. Today, vintage lunch boxes are popular collectibles, especially those in good condition with the original thermos.
Values vary widely depending on the design and condition, but some rare lunch boxes have sold for hundreds of dollars or more. They belong with the many forgotten household items from the past that collectors now chase.
7. Vinyl Records
Boomers bought millions of vinyl records in the 1970s, from Fleetwood Mac and the Eagles to Led Zeppelin and Stevie Wonder. Many kept their collections for decades, even after switching to cassettes and CDs.
Vinyl has made a huge comeback in recent years, with sales rising steadily since the late 2000s. The Recording Industry Association of America has tracked this revival. Most common 1970s records are not worth much, but first pressings, rare editions, and records in excellent condition can sell for good money.
Check your old records for original pressings, misprints, and limited editions. Records with clean vinyl and intact covers are worth the most.
8. Atari 2600 Games and Consoles
The Atari 2600, released in 1977, brought video games into American living rooms. Kids played games like “Combat,” “Space Invaders,” “Pac-Man,” and “Asteroids” for hours. Many families kept their consoles long after newer systems came out.
Today, vintage Atari consoles and games are popular with collectors. Most common games sell for a few dollars, but rare titles and items still in their original boxes can be worth much more.
If you have an old Atari in the attic, check whether it still works and whether you have the original boxes and manuals. These details can increase the value.
9. Polaroid SX-70 Cameras
Polaroid introduced the SX-70 instant camera in 1972. It was a sleek, folding camera that produced instant color photos. It was expensive at the time and considered a luxury item.
Today, the SX-70 is a cult favorite among photographers and collectors. Working models in good condition can sell for a few hundred dollars. Instant film is still made, which keeps the camera popular.
If you have an old Polaroid camera, check whether it still works. Even non-working models may have value for parts or display.
10. Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Many boomers grew up with furniture from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, such as teak sideboards, Eames-style chairs, and Danish modern tables. Many families replaced these pieces with newer styles over the years.
Today, mid-century modern furniture is extremely popular. Authentic pieces by famous designers can sell for thousands of dollars, and even unbranded pieces in good condition often sell well.
If you have old furniture from this era, look for labels, maker’s marks, and original finishes. A professional appraiser can help determine value.
How to Find Out What Your Items Are Worth
If you think you have valuable items, start by researching completed sales on auction websites. Completed sales show what people actually paid, not just what sellers are asking. Collector guides and online forums can also help.
For high-value items, consider getting a professional appraisal. Auction houses, antique dealers, and specialty collectors can provide expert opinions. Be cautious of anyone who offers to buy your items without explaining their value.
Don’t Toss It Yet
Before cleaning out the attic or holding a garage sale, take a closer look at your old belongings. Something your kids called junk might turn out to be worth real money. It is one more reason to keep a few childhood keepsakes.
Which items from the 1970s do you still have, and have you ever been surprised by what something was worth? Many readers say they wish they had kept their old Star Wars toys.
