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Cheapism / DALL-E 3

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Cheapism / DALL-E 3

One Man's Trash

The 1960s was a vibrant and transformative decade marked by cultural, social, and technological changes. The era produced a wealth of items and collectibles that — at the time — might have seemed commonplace or even trivial. But now, some of these items have skyrocketed in value to become sought-after treasures. 


Typically driven by rarity, condition, and the unique story or history they embody, some of these collectibles are now worth thousands (or even millions) of dollars. From toys and games to fashion and technology, these 11 items from the '60s remind us that what once was cheap and ordinary can become valuable over time. 

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1. Beatles Memorabilia

Anything Beatles-related from the 1960s — especially rare records or autographed items — is now highly coveted. Rare albums like this "Yesterday and Today" vinyl with a low serial number is selling for over $5,000 on eBay. An album signed by the band could easily fetch over $100,000, depending on its condition and rarity. 

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2. Original Barbie Dolls

After the first Barbie doll was introduced in 1959, models produced in the early 1960s — particularly if they are in mint condition and in their original packaging — can fetch hundreds (or thousands) of dollars. The price varies depending on things like rarity, historical significance, and specific variations like hairstyles or outfits. 

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3. Comic Books

Comic books from the 1960s — especially first editions featuring iconic characters like Spider-Man, Batman, or the Fantastic Four — can command high prices among collectors today. For real, though — a well-preserved, first or limited-edition of a comic book from this era can get you enough to serve as a down payment on a house (like this Spider-Man comic from 1964 that's selling for $37,500 on eBay). 

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4. Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Furniture designers like Eames, Knoll, and Noguchi were prolific during the 1960s — and their pieces have become synonymous with ornate and mid-century modern styles. Original pieces in good condition can fetch anywhere from a few thousand dollars to over $100,000, depending on the designer and their historical background.


Related: Best Places to Buy Cheap Furniture Online

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8. Vintage Watches

Watches from iconic brands like Rolex or Omega — especially those with historical significance or rare features — are considered highly valuable. A Rolex Daytona from the 1960s can be worth over $50,000, while an Omega Speedmaster can sell for even more thanks to its historical significance. 


Fun fact: The Omega Speedmaster, also known as the "Moonwatch," played a crucial role in the Apollo missions. During the Apollo 13 mission, after an explosion damaged the spacecraft's systems, the astronauts used their Omega Speedmaster watches to time their re-entry trajectory and ensure a safe return to Earth. 

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9. Concert Posters and Artwork

While those colorful, trippy posters from the '60s may not look like they're worth much, their value can climb over time. Concert posters and artwork featuring iconic bands or landmark events hold significant nostalgic and monetary value. An original, well-preserved poster from a music festival or concert can sell for several hundred.

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10. First Edition Books

First or limited editions of literary classics from the 1960s — especially signed copies — are highly sought after. Books like "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee or "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote can fetch impressive price tags among collectors and literary enthusiasts looking to beef up their private collections. 

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11. Vintage Cameras

Appealing to both avid collectors and photographers, cameras from brands like Leica or Rolleiflex can fetch impressive prices. Valued as not just vintage collectibles, some of these old cameras can still be used, too. Depending on its model and rarity, a well-preserved Leica camera from the 1960s can be worth several thousand dollars