(FinancialHealth.net) – You’re richer than you think! If you’re glancing down at your wallet right now scoffing at what you just read, you’re not alone. All too often we consider money – either in cash form or digital form – to be the only true “asset” we have; that’s simply not true. Hidden in the darkest recesses of your attic or basement is likely a treasure trove of potential money in the form of everyday items and objects.
Before you toss up your hands and declare yourself penniless, see if you have a stash containing any of the items on this list.
Old Coins
Your grandfather stashed them away in a jar during WWI; now that jar sits collecting dust in a hope chest. Those coins may not be worth much at face value, but if one of them happens to be a particularly old or specific coin type, it could be worth thousands of dollars. Some, like the 1943 penny, can be worth as much as $10,000.
Antique Furniture
Antique furniture is one of the most overlooked assets in the United States today. A barely-worn, well-kept chaise from the 1890s can be worth thousands if made by the right supplier and easily verified for authenticity. Even if your pieces aren’t in the best of condition, they can still be worth money.
Generally, anything made prior to 1920 will be worth far more than items made beyond this era. An antiques specialist can look over your furniture and help you decide whether it’s worthwhile to sell or just a treasured family heirloom.
Jewelry
Old jewelry isn’t just an asset because it’s old; it’s an asset solely for the fact that it contains gold, silver, gems, diamonds, or other precious materials. Even if the piece itself isn’t worth much, you can still gain financial windfall by taking it to a gold buyer and getting market price for it. But some pieces, like antique wedding bands, tiaras, and diamond rings, could be worth much, much more.
Vintage Figurines
If you’ve ever watched an episode of Little House on the Prairie, you more than likely noticed Ma’s little shepherd doll that sat on the mantle. Like other vintage figurines, these were treasured all throughout the late 19th and early 20th Century.
Today, many Americans have these sitting on mantles, in cupboards, and on shelves without even realizing that they could be worth money. Certain Royal Doulton figurines, for example, can sell to collectors for several thousand dollars.
The next time you’re feeling down about your financial position, take heart; it’s very likely that you have more going for you than you think. Most importantly, never let financial strain overwhelm you – there’s always a way out.
~Here’s to Your Financial Health!
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