Top 8+ Valuable Collectibles You Should Always Buy at Estate Sales, According to Experts

Keep your eyes peeled for these special finds.

Estate sales are the perfect place to score a deal on vintage crystal or a full set of china; there might even be valuable collectibles hiding among the well-worn linens and used glassware.

Not sure where to start? Treasure hunting at estate sales can feel daunting, as there's a lot to sift through—but we've got you covered. Below, we asked experts about the most valuable pieces that you should always look for while shopping, from silver-plated trophies to coffee table books.

Silver and Silver-Plated Trophies

Sterling silver is almost always going to come with a hefty price tag, especially when it comes to larger pieces—but if you find something in solid silver that's affordable, buy it. Meanwhile, some less pricey options still retain their worth.

Taylor Carver, owner of I Need A Bigger House, looks for antique, silver-plated trophies not just for their inherent value, but also because they're a gorgeous vessel for natural curiosities. They're a beautiful addition to your tablescape as well.

Alabaster Vessels

Many designers are drawn to alabaster, with bowls, urns, and lidded jars being popular as statement pieces, like the ones above. Carver especially keeps an eye out for alabaster tazzas.

These objects may not be a household name, but you'll likely know one when you see it. The shallow bowls are typically mounted on feet or a pedestal; think of a compote dish or a tiny bird bath. They aren't yet a go-to item for most casual shoppers, either, so you may just stumble upon one.

Collectible Glass

Most estate sales are filled with glassware and glass décor, but that doesn't mean all of it has monetary value. If you want to score big, you'll need to learn some of the most sought-after brands and makers. These pieces will go quickly!

"Arrive early and bring a discerning eye," says Sara See, associate principal at SEES Design. "Look for collectible glass, such as Baccarat or Lalique."

Coffee Table Books

Coffee table books can be surprisingly valuable: "Artful [ones] are the low-hanging fruit of estate sales," adds See.

Look for large-scale, visually impactful books from luxury publishers like Assouline. These books usually maintain their value—or they become even more desirable with age.

Midcentury Furniture

In a packed house, most estate sale shoppers will go straight to the china and the crystal. Jennifer Jones, principal designer at Niche Interiors, advises a different approach, as her best and most collectible finds are furniture.

"Look for coveted midcentury teak or walnut coffee tables, dressers, and nightstands [that have] a 'Made in Denmark' stamp on the underside," she says.

Russell Wright Dinnerware

One of Pickard's favorite items to look for is dinnerware by Russell Wright. This was a staple in many American households throughout the midcentury, and, today, it's an affordable collectible. The sleek pieces are found in earthy-yet-colorful tones that still feel playful and relevant.

Vintage Cowboy Art

Vintage cowboy art has a loyal following—for Pickard, it's a fun genre to look for at estate sales.

These Western-inspired oil paintings are most valuable when they're originals, and they're not usually the top pick for estate sale shoppers. In other words, you may just be able to pick up a valuable original for a real steal.