Uncovering Hidden Treasures: Unusual Finds in Thrift Stores

Introduction

Thrift stores are more than just places to find second-hand furniture and clothes; they are treasures waiting to be discovered. Sometimes, these stores hold items that are worth a fortune, or at the very least, a substantial amount of money. Let's delve into some remarkable stories and tips to make your thrift store hunting more successful.

Discovering Valuable Finds

The thrill of finding something of value at a thrift store is exhilarating. Whether it's a rare vintage suit with a matching receipt or a set of old records that turn out to be gold in gold, these discoveries can make your thrifting experience unforgettable.

A $700 Suit by Joseph A. Bank

In one recent find, the author purchased a brand new, seven-year-old men's suit by Joseph A. Bank for just ten dollars. Excited by the purchase, they noticed a piece of paper inside the coat pocket, which turned out to be the original sales receipt. The suit was sold new for $900, making it a profitable item to resell or keep.

A Deal on a Violin

Another notable find was a brand new entry-level violin with a bow. Purchased for $15, it was missing a couple of strings and the bridge. The author managed to obtain new strings and a bridge for only $5, turning a $15 purchase into a $50 instrument, all for a total outlay of $20.

Unearthing Vintage Records

One of the more unusual finds was a stack of LP records purchased for just $2. Due to the records being bundled, the author could only see the top and bottom records. Among them was the soundtrack from the beloved movie, The Sound of Music. Despite never playing it for seven years, the album holds sentimental value, especially when considering its original retail price of $15.

Vintage Hawaiian Shirts

Vintage Hawaiian shirts are a treasure in themselves, and the author had a stunning discovery. One find was a vintage Hawaiian shirt featuring Santa Claus and purple monkeys, which was later sold for a nice profit.

Uncle Mose the Vintage Bank

Another fascinating find was a vintage cast iron bank from approximately 1920. Splitting it with its matching set, the author acquired half, Uncle Mose, for just $3. Valued at up to $60 on eBay, the bank is the author's prized possession, staying in their bedroom as part of their collection. It's a piece of history they're proud to own and cherish.

A Large Aquarium at a Thrift Store

Quite fortuitously, an author discovered a substantial 135-gallon aquarium with a full hood, stand, trickle filter, bio balls, and numerous accessories at a thrift store. The listed price was $150, but the author believes the aquarium was worth at least twice that amount. When the thrift store was unwilling to change the price, the item was promptly sold, giving a good deal to the buyer.

Conclusion

Thrift stores are filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From valuable vintage clothing to rare collectibles and forgotten musical treasures, every thrift store trip is an adventure. The key is to be observant and have a willingness to purchase items that might seem insignificant at the time. Happy thrifting!