Ever watched an episode of Antiques roadshow on PBS? So have I (much to the chagrin of my wife) Has it ever inspired you to look through some junk in your garage or basement? Me too… only problem is my junk is not worth nearly as much as the items showcased on the show. The ice tongs I inherited from my grandfather which HIS father used to use for work on the streets of New York City? …widely available on eBay for less than 10 bucks. And the unopened set of PanAm and TWA playing cards I found in my parents attic? Couldn’t cover the cost of a slice of pizza….
I can’t decide what I enjoy more about Antiques Roadshow, watching someone who thinks they have nothing realize they are sitting on several thousand dollars (assuming they find a buyer) OR seeing someone who is uncomfortably confident they hold a treasure only to find out what they have is worthless (on National TV). I suppose there is a certain joy or maybe schadenfreude in both scenarios.
Gobankingrates.com has compiled a list of 20 collectibles that might make your retirement planning go a little easier. Hopefully you have better luck than I did, but even if you don’t it can be a fun to find out.
Although there are many avenues you can take to earn $1 million, here’s one that might surprise you: cashing in on your geeky collectibles. It sounds a little far-fetched, but some collectibles have made their owners big bucks at auctions.
