We don’t often think about the value of random thing we have in stuffed away in boxes. However, tons of old items — including things you might own — could be worth a hundreds or even thousands if you bring them to the right place.

Here are some of the most valuable antiques you might find.

1. Paintings

You might not have the Mona Lisa, but you never know if you have a valuable painting in your possession. Some people have said that they lived by painters who gifted them a piece of artwork that later became valuable when the painter struck fame. Worth looking into if you have any paintings.

2. Guitars

Guitars are not only musical instruments, but some consider them pieces of art. They don’t have to be antique, either. Guitars in good condition — even those from the 60’s and 70’s — can be worth a lot.

3. Tools

Head over to your shed or workbench and take a look at your tools. See anything that’s quite old? Older tools can be worth a lot, but you’ll want to check out a price guide to get a more accurate estimate of their value.

If you find anything valuable, you could sell it and have enough money to buy a brand new tool set.

4. Persian Rugs

Persian rugs take a long time to appreciate in value, but the wait is worth it if it’s been in your possession for decades. Rugs over 100 years old are considered antiques. Price is determined by factors such as size, material, and design.

5. Books

Did your grandparents or great grandparents buy a well-known book when it came out decades ago? First edition books from the 1930s - 1950s (and before) can be worth thousands of dollars.

6. Baseball Cards

In general, baseball cards increase in value as they get older. That being said, there are several other aspects that play into the card’s value. If you have baseball cards, consider getting them appraised.

7. Lamps

If you’ve inherited an old lamp that just doesn’t seem to fit your current decor, don’t fret — depending on brand, an old lamp could earn you thousands, if not tens of thousands of dollars. Brands like Handel and Pairpoint will net you a pretty penny.

8. Christmas Ornaments

New Christmas ornaments are a dime a dozen, but older Christmas ornaments passed down through generations could be worth a lot. A single ornament could be worth several hundred dollars; not bad for a little orb you hang on a tree once a year.

9. Silverware

Believe it or not, old sterling silverware can net you a good amount of cash. Individual pieces can fetch you a few hundred — but if you have a whole set, that’s potentially a couple thousand dollars.

10. Vintage Ads

Vintage-style ads add a touch of fashion to your home when placed well. However, real vintage ads may be worth selling instead. Even ads for the most mundane items could fetch your hundreds.

How to Discover the Price of an Antique

Do you own a historical or valuable antique, such as an old coin, artwork, or a firearm? You’re probably wondering what it’s worth out of curiosity; or maybe you want to sell it and you’re hoping to maximize your earnings.

There are several sources you can use to discover approximately how valuable your antique is. Try some of these place.

1. Search for Similar Antiques for Sale Online

A great place to start your search is online. Begin by searching for items for sale that are similar to your antique. For example, if you have an old coin, see if you can find other coins for sale.

While you’re using your search engine, try look for databases related to your item; to do so, just run a search for your item plus “database”. You’ll find a lot of pricing information regarding your item.

eBay is another online place you should check out, as tons of people sell antique items on there every day. Run a search for your item and see what prices you find.

2. Find an Appraiser for Your Antique

Nearly every type of item has an appraiser for it. Find an appraiser that is certified by the American Society of Appraisers, the Appraisers Association of America, or the International Society of Appraisers. You can seek out an appraiser directly, or you may be able to find one at an antique store.

You will have to pay for an appraiser, but getting an accurate estimate may be worth the cost.

Don’t have time to visit an appraiser or an antique store? You can get an estimate online from a valuation site. It won’t be as accurate since the appraiser can’t look at the item, but you should get a decent estimate if you’re thorough and honest in your description.

3. Auction Houses

Auction houses will evaluate your item for a fee that depends on location. However, some auction houses will host an occasional “Valuation Day” where they will estimate the value of your antique for free.

4. Collectibles Dealers

Is your antique a collectible item, such as a coin or a set of baseball cards? It likely has more established guidelines of determining its value; in this case, you’ll want to take your antique to a collectibles dealer.

As with appraisers, make sure the collectibles dealer you visit is certified by an appraisal organization. Also, read online reviews of any dealers you visit to ensure they’re reputable.

5. The Library

Your local library should have resources to assist you in discovering the price of your antique. One of these resources is a type of book called a price guide. Price guides contain an assortment of typical antique items and what prices they have sold for.

Look at collector’s books as well. In collectors books, you’ll find a detailed look at your item, including aspects such as size, condition, and sometimes pricing information.

If you’re having trouble finding the resources you need, ask a librarian to help you out.