In the fast-paced world of investments, new trends emerge almost every year. One moment, it’s digital art and NFTs; the next, it’s vintage watches or rare automobiles. However, 2025 is seeing something entirely different. The latest buzz? Forgotten items—those objects once relegated to the back corners of basements, attics, and storage units—are now being resurrected as the next big investment opportunities.
But what exactly are these “forgotten” items, and why are they suddenly catching the attention of savvy investors? Let’s take a deep dive into the rise of these unexpected collectibles that are now set to become the next investment superstars.
1. Vintage Video Games: Nostalgia Meets Investment
It seems like only yesterday that video games were a novelty. From the pixelated world of Super Mario Bros. to the early, floppy-disk days of Doom, vintage video games were once just fun distractions. However, over the past few years, these nostalgic items have turned into highly coveted treasures, with collectors and investors pouring millions into them.
In 2025, we’re witnessing the rise of vintage video games as a legitimate investment class. Rare, sealed-in-box copies of iconic games like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda, and Final Fantasy VII are fetching astronomical prices at auction, sometimes even exceeding the value of original artwork or antique furniture. In fact, a Super Mario Bros. cartridge recently sold for $1.5 million—an eye-popping amount that underscores the growing potential of this market.
As millennials and Gen Zers with fond memories of their childhood games continue to accumulate wealth, the demand for these nostalgic treasures is only increasing. Investors are now seeing these video games not just as relics of the past, but as tangible assets that can appreciate in value over time, much like fine art or rare wine.
2. Vintage Toys: From Playtime to Portfolio
Another category making a major comeback is vintage toys—specifically action figures, dolls, and board games that were once staples of childhood playtime. From Star Wars action figures to Barbie dolls, items that were mass-produced in the ‘70s and ‘80s are now commanding eye-watering prices at auction. What makes these items even more interesting is the fact that many are still in their original packaging, which adds to their rarity and value.
One example of this trend is the rise in value of Star Wars memorabilia, which has seen significant price increases over the past few years. The original 12-back Luke Skywalker action figure, for example, recently sold for over $100,000—an incredible jump from its initial retail price of just a few dollars.
The renewed interest in vintage toys can be attributed to the crossover between pop culture and investment. As fans of these franchises grow older, they are increasingly looking to preserve and invest in items from their childhood. Investors are keen to get in early, as demand for these nostalgic treasures shows no signs of slowing down.
3. Vintage Clothing and Sneakers: High Fashion for High Returns
While the fashion world has always been cyclical, the vintage clothing and sneakers market has seen a radical shift in the past few years, driven by a new wave of young, fashion-conscious investors who see items as both wearable and investable.
From rare Nike Air Jordans to limited-edition Supreme clothing, the vintage clothing and sneaker market is on fire. What’s behind this trend? A combination of nostalgia, exclusivity, and high-end streetwear collaborations has transformed these items into investment vehicles. A pair of limited-edition Nike Air Mag sneakers, designed after the shoes worn by Marty McFly in Back to the Future Part II, recently sold for $200,000, a price unheard of just a few years ago.
The trend toward rare clothing and sneakers is being driven by two main factors: cultural capital and scarcity. Rare items, especially those that were produced in limited quantities, are seen as highly valuable due to their exclusivity. As these items become more difficult to find, their value naturally rises, making them perfect for savvy investors looking for returns.
4. Vinyl Records: Spinning to New Heights
It wasn’t long ago that vinyl records were considered an obsolete medium—something only the most dedicated audiophiles still appreciated. Fast-forward to 2025, and vinyl records have not only made a huge comeback but have become a mainstream investment asset.
In fact, some of the rarest albums in existence, such as the Beatles’ “White Album” (signed by all four members), are now worth tens of thousands of dollars. Meanwhile, limited-run pressings from modern artists, especially ones that have been signed or contain special content, are also growing in value. As of 2025, rare vinyl releases from artists like Kanye West, Adele, and Billie Eilish are commanding skyrocketing prices, with some albums reselling for multiple times their original value.
Why the sudden resurgence? It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s the analog experience. Vinyl offers a sense of authenticity and nostalgia that streaming platforms simply cannot match. Moreover, its tactile nature and unique sound quality make it a favorite among collectors. As younger generations discover the pleasures of owning physical music, the demand for rare records continues to rise.
5. Typewriters: The Analog Revolution
In the digital age, the idea of writing on a typewriter may seem archaic, yet these vintage machines are seeing a significant uptick in interest. Typewriters, once the essential tool of every writer, journalist, and office worker, are now being rediscovered by a new generation who appreciate them as both nostalgic artifacts and functional objects.
The interest in typewriters is fueled by a renewed desire for analog experiences. As people look for ways to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover tactile, hands-on tools, the typewriter offers a perfect escape. Some of the rarest models, particularly antique machines made by companies like Underwood, Royal, and Smith-Corona, are now being sold for several thousand dollars, with collectors clamoring for well-preserved or limited-edition models.
What makes typewriters especially appealing as an investment is the rarity of certain models and their connection to history. A 1940s Underwood No. 5 in excellent condition, for example, could easily fetch $5,000 or more at auction. The typewriter market may be niche, but it’s one that’s growing as collectors and investors seek out unique, tangible items with enduring value.
Conclusion: The Hidden Potential of Forgotten Items
The resurgence of these “forgotten” items highlights a broader trend in the collectibles and investment markets: people are increasingly looking to connect with the past in a meaningful way. These once-overlooked objects—whether they’re vintage video games, old toys, limited-edition sneakers, rare vinyl, or typewriters—offer something unique that digital assets simply can’t match: tangible history.
For investors, these items represent a new frontier. As traditional investment markets fluctuate, the growing demand for rare, nostalgic collectibles offers a fresh opportunity to diversify one’s portfolio. What’s more, the emotional connection these items hold for collectors only adds to their perceived value, making them an ideal combination of passion and profit.
As we move further into 2025, keep an eye on these forgotten items—they may just be the next big thing in the world of alternative investments. The past is no longer just history; it’s a profitable opportunity waiting to be rediscovered.
