Most people know that gold rings, silver chains, and old coins might have some cash value. But what if we told you there’s a good chance you’re sitting on even more hidden wealth—in places you’d never expect?
At Eagle Coins Gold and Silver Buying, we’ve helped countless people in Harwich, Boston, and all over Cape Cod discover surprising treasures tucked away in drawers, jewelry boxes, or even dusty basements. Many customers come in thinking they just want to turn coins into cash, only to leave thrilled after learning some overlooked item is worth big money.
Today, we’re revealing some uncommon items in your home that might be far more valuable than you think—and why you should never assume “junk” is worthless!
1. Silver Flatware and Serving Pieces
You’d be amazed how many people own sterling silver flatware sets they’ve forgotten all about. Whether it’s Grandma’s wedding silver or a fancy tray tucked away for “special occasions,” these pieces can hold significant value.
Signs it could be valuable:
Marked “Sterling,” “925,” or “.925”
Brand names like Tiffany, Gorham, Reed & Barton
Intricate patterns or antique designs
Even single spoons, forks, or serving utensils might bring in good money if they’re sterling. If you’re looking to sell silver bars, keep in mind that scrap silver buyers often purchase sterling flatware for its melt value—sometimes paying more if your pieces are collectible or in excellent condition.
2. Dental Gold
This one surprises almost everyone. Dental crowns, bridges, and other dental work often contain gold alloys—and some of these can be quite pure.
If you’ve inherited a loved one’s belongings and found a small envelope marked “dental gold,” don’t toss it! It might look odd, but dental gold often contains high gold purity and can be melted down for cash.
Bring it in to Eagle Coins and we’ll test it discreetly and offer you a fair price based on the current gold market.
3. Old Trophies and Plaques
Trophies from decades past might seem purely sentimental—but certain vintage awards were made with real silver or silver plate.
While silver plate has minimal value, older trophies marked “Sterling” or “925” can be quite valuable for their silver content or as collectibles. Always check the bottom or sides for hallmarks.
If you’re unsure, bring them in for a free appraisal. You’d be surprised how often these “decorations” turn into cash!
4. Sterling Silver Pens and Accessories
Luxury pens from brands like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, or Montblanc are sometimes made of sterling silver. Even if they’re scratched, engraved, or out of ink, they can fetch a solid price for both their silver content and brand name.
Sterling money clips, cigarette cases, and vintage lighters also have solid resale value. If you’re looking to sell silver bars or any silver items, don’t forget these smaller treasures lurking in office drawers or desk sets.
5. Old Coins—Not Just Rare Ones
Most people think only rare coins are worth money, but that’s not true. Plenty of common coins contain valuable precious metals. For example:
Junk silver: U.S. dimes, quarters, and half dollars minted before 1965 contain 90% silver. Even circulated “junk silver” can bring solid cash value for its silver content.
War nickels (1942-1945): These contain 35% silver.
Gold coins: Even modern bullion coins like American Eagles or Canadian Maple Leafs are worth their weight in gold.
If you’ve been thinking about how to turn coins into cash, bring in your old jars, coffee cans, or inherited coin collections. You never know what’s hiding in that change!
6. Vintage Costume Jewelry
While solid gold and silver jewelry hold obvious value, don’t underestimate vintage costume pieces. Certain designer brands like:
Trifari
Weiss
Eisenberg
Miriam Haskell
…are highly collectible. Some costume jewelry pieces fetch hundreds of dollars at resale, even though they contain no precious metals.
If you’re cleaning out a relative’s belongings, gather up all the old brooches, clip-on earrings, and elaborate necklaces. We’ll help you separate the costume pieces from fine jewelry—and let you know what’s truly valuable.
7. Gold and Silver Bars and Rounds
If you’ve inherited gold or silver bars and rounds, they’re almost certainly worth significant money. However, many people don’t realize that:
Weight and purity matter. A 1-ounce silver bar is very different in value from a 100-ounce bar.
Branded bars carry premiums. Popular refiners like Engelhard, Johnson Matthey, or PAMP often fetch higher prices.
At Eagle Coins, we help customers sell silver bars safely and securely, explaining exactly how market prices translate into your payout. Don’t sell bars or rounds without knowing the real value!
Why You Should Get a Professional Appraisal
Even experienced collectors sometimes overlook hidden value in their homes. The only way to be sure you’re not missing out is to get a professional appraisal.
At Eagle Coins Gold and Silver Buying, we offer:
Free, no-obligation appraisals
Testing in front of you for total transparency
Immediate cash offers if you decide to sell
Honest guidance—even if you choose not to sell
The Bottom Line
Your home might hold hidden treasures worth big money. From unexpected items like dental gold to the more obvious gold and silver bars, there’s often cash sitting quietly in drawers, jewelry boxes, or old boxes in the attic.
If you’ve been wondering how to turn coins into cash or whether your “junk” silver is valuable, bring it all to Eagle Coins Gold and Silver Buying in Harwich. We’re local experts passionate about helping Cape Cod residents uncover the true worth of their belongings—and putting more money in your pocket.
Ready to see what treasures you’ve been overlooking? Come visit us today. You might be pleasantly surprised by what’s hiding in your home!
