This Commonly Used Winter Item In Your Garage Could Actually Be Worth A Ton Of Money

You don't need the internet to see how much Americans love sledding. But if you look it up, you'll find that nearly 10% of the U.S. population, over six years old, enjoyed winter sports like sledding during the 2022-23 season, per Snowsports Industries America participation report, via Inside Outdoor. It's pretty clear that winter isn't complete without some fun on a sled, and when the season is over, those old ones in your garage could be worth a lot. Vintage sleds, especially ones made by the original manufacturers or those with unique features, can be super valuable. Collectors and sled enthusiasts are always on the hunt for these, and some can sell for big money at auctions and private sales.

If you're curious about the value of a vintage sled, pay attention to the details. Look for unique features like original paint, the materials used, and any decorative elements. Sleds with their original branding or logos are especially valuable, as more intact sleds tend to fetch higher prices. For example, older Flexible Flyer sleds made by S.L Allen Company are marked with "FF." The numbers on these sleds indicate their size, so a larger number means a longer sled. These details can significantly boost the sled's worth, so keep an eye out. Also, look out for these watches that are worth a ton of money and you may have them lying around.

Some sleds have sold for big bucks at auctions or private sales, especially those that were among the first made when sledding became popular. A standout example is the Rosebud sled from the film Citizen Kane. In 1982, filmmaker Steven Spielberg bought it for $60,500 at a Sotheby's auction. Today, you can see this famous winter item on display at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles.

Flexible Flyer sleds are among the most recognizable and sought-after collectibles today, thanks in part to their iconic eagle logo. Their robust designs and steering capabilities make them highly desirable. Depending on their rarity, these sleds can sell for between $90 and $350. Another favorite is the Gladding American Flyer sleds, known for their sleek designs, high-quality materials, and meticulous attention to detail. Depending on the model and its condition, these can fetch between $200 and $250.

Wooden sleds that feature runners shaped like animals, and other unique designs have become rare finds. If you own one in good condition, it could be quite valuable. Similarly, kids' push sleds with runners instead of wheels are also in demand, with some currently selling for over $1,000. Size can add to the value too. For example, a large wooden sled from the 1800s, crafted in France with gorgeous details and historical significance, can fetch over $5,000. These pieces are not just sleds; they're pieces of history with beauty that collectors love.

If you think your sled might be rare and valuable and you're willing to sell it, you'll first have to check if it's valuable and worth the amount you plan to sell for. For starters, you'll have to check for damages, signs of wear and tear, or any missing parts. See if the original paint and branding or logos are still visible as well as other decorative elements or rare features as this will increase the value. 

Notice it is damaged or faded? You can consider restoring it to improve its overall appearance, although this could mean it could lose some of its "vintage" especially as some collectors might prefer it untouched. Note that you may have to notify the buyer or collector of this change to maintain credibility. It is a common practice, particularly if you want to sell your old baseball cards or these unexpected musical instruments that are worth a ton of money.

Also, if you really want to determine the value, you can talk to some antique dealers near you or online like Auctiontime and Auction Solutions to give you an estimate or a general idea of the market value. You can also browse through sites like eBay or Etsy or other antique sites to help you decide. However, if you're not ready to sell, store it in a cool dry place with little risk of accidents and don't expose the metal parts to moisture so it doesn't rust.