The Thrift Store Find You Should Keep An Eye Out For Since It Can Be Worth A Lot Of Money

The next time you're browsing the crowded shelves of your local secondhand store, you may want to keep an eye out for a few specific items that could bring you an unexpected influx of cash. While most thrifted items aren't going to be worth too much, sometimes you can score high-end vintage brands that are always worth buying and can easily be resold for a much higher price. You never know what you might find hidden within the shelves of a thrift store, and believe it or not, an umbrella stand can be a highly desired item.

It may not be a furniture piece you specifically seek out when shopping at a thrift store. However, if you can spot an umbrella stand amongst the various other furniture items, you may want to take it home. If it's made of clay, porcelain, metal, or wood, it might be worth it to check the item to see if it's from a famous designer or brand name. You can either keep it for yourself or see just how much it may go for based on its year and make. (If you do end up keeping it, don't forget to complete the golden rule of thrifting: make sure you have a spot in your home for it first.)

Made from a wide variety of materials, like clay, metal, or wood, umbrella stands can come in many shapes and sizes and are often used for decorative purposes. Some are even made of bamboo, rattan, or plastic. Most brand-new standard umbrella stands, from popular brands like Walmart or Home Depot, can range in price from $20 to $75 or more. You can find some priced at $800 or even $1,240, depending on their material and brand. 

A vintage stand, however, can sell for well over $1,500. Look out for materials like cast iron, ceramic, porcelain, brass, or solid wood. Your local secondhand store may unknowingly have a few unique or vintage options in stock, and it may just be worth your time to seek them out. Many vintage umbrella stands were designed with unique shapes, so note that they may not be recognizable at first. 

There are a few designer names to look out for when shopping for vintage umbrella holders, including Italian artist Piero Fornasetti and plastic contemporary Italian brand Kartell. Many popular luxury umbrella stand designs were created by famous French designers, including Jacques Adnet and Mathieu Matégot. You may also want to look for high-end American pottery brands like Rookwood or Roseville. If you think you may have a winner on your hands, make an appointment with a local antique appraiser to authenticate your latest thrift find and determine its possible worth.