What Sells Best at Estate Sales? 10 Surprising Items That Bring in Big Bids

What Sells Best at Estate Sales

When most people think of estate sales, they picture big-ticket furniture or vintage China sets. But today’s estate sale buyers are often on the hunt for items you might never expect to be valuable—especially in online auctions where niche collectors are just a click away.

If you’re wondering what really sells at estate sales in Amarillo, TX, here are 10 surprising items that regularly bring in strong bids—and how Double S Auctions can help you turn clutter into cash.

Estate auction table filled with collectibles and household items at Double S Auctions in Amarillo

1. Vintage Toys (Especially Barbies, Legos & Action Figures)

From 1980s Barbie dolls to unopened Hot Wheels sets, vintage toys often spark bidding wars. Even gently played-with items can bring high returns, especially if they come with original packaging.

💡 Tip: Double S recently featured a Barbie collection that drew dozens of bids in the first 24 hours!

2. Coins & Currency

Whether it’s buffalo nickels, wheat pennies, or foreign bills, coin collectors are always watching. Rare, old, or uncirculated coins often perform better than expected in estate auctions.

See what’s currently listed

3. Vinyl Records

Yes—records are hot again. Albums from classic rock, country, and jazz artists (especially first pressings or rare covers) tend to attract music lovers, DJs, and collectors alike.

📚 For more on vinyl record values, check out Goldmine Magazine.

4. Western Accessories

From leather handbags to belt buckles and bolo ties, western-style items perform especially well with Amarillo’s local buyer base. Anything handcrafted, vintage, or made of silver tends to sell quickly.

5. Jewelry (Costume & Fine)

Estate jewelry always has a market. Even costume pieces from vintage brands like Trifari or Monet can bring solid bids when presented well and grouped by style or era.

A vintage jewelry box filled with custom pieces and assorted items, showcasing unique estate sale treasures.

6. Porcelain Dolls & Collectible Figurines

While not every doll will bring high bids, certain collectible lines (like Madame Alexander, Royal Doulton, or vintage Japanese figurines) still hold strong value among niche buyers.

7. Tools & Garage Items

It may surprise you, but older tools—especially American-made brands—often outperform expectations. Woodworking tools, power tools, and toolboxes are practical buys for shoppers and DIYers alike.

8. Military Memorabilia

Uniforms, patches, medals, or equipment from WWII or Vietnam eras can be incredibly sought after, especially when listed with history or service details.

9. Decorative Collectibles & Home Accents

Crystal vases, vintage wall art, mid-century clocks, and even old lamps can draw attention when styled correctly in the catalog. Buyers love unique pieces with character.

Mid-century vintage home décor at estate sale in Amarillo, TX

10. Kitchen Gadgets & Retro Cookware

From 1960s Pyrex to countertop mixers, kitchen gear is a surprising top performer. Nostalgia sells—and buyers love the quality of older cookware.

Want to Sell These Items? Double S Can Help.

If you’re downsizing, managing a loved one’s estate, or just ready to clean out the garage, Double S Auctions in Amarillo, TX makes the process easy.

✅ They professionally photograph and catalog your items
✅ Host in-person preview days
✅ Market your auction to thousands of targeted bidders Learn how it works or start your consignment:
👉 Visit Double S Auctions