Did you ever think the radical décor we used to decorate our homes with in the ’70s would become invaluable collector’s items? Out of the desire to create the perfect combination of modern design with comfort, consumers at that time were making purchases that would eventually end up selling at auctions and online stores for tens of thousands of dollars. Come with us as we remember some home decorations from the 70s that could be worth a fortune today.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. Verner Panton “Flowerpot” Pendant Lamps
- 2 2. Marantz Stereo Receivers
- 3 3. Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa
- 4 4. Lava Lamps by Mathmos
- 5 5. Peter Max Posters
- 6 6. Dansk Kobenstyle Cookware
- 7 7. Ettore Sottsass Mirrors
- 8 8. Sylvania Gro-Lux Plant Lights
- 9 9. Curtis Jere Wall Sculptures
- 10 10. Hornsea Pottery Storage Jars
- 11 11. George Nelson Bubble Lamps
- 12 12. Bitossi Rimini Blue Ceramics
- 13 13. Lucite Ice Buckets
1. Verner Panton “Flowerpot” Pendant Lamps
One of the most valuable types of 70s décor are lamps. Today, models of lamps designed by the Danish Designers of the time sell for about $1,000. The best examples have original wiring and corresponding ceiling caps.
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2. Marantz Stereo Receivers
Blue Marantz receivers became an important and valuable part of the home audio systems of the time. Their cabinets and blue illumination are examples of functional art. Restored models of the 2275 and 2325 sold for between $2,000 and $4,000.
3. Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa
Sofas were an imperative part of a 70’s living room. Those that are modular are very valuable today in the vintage market, selling for upwards of $20,000. The bubble design coupled with its modular capabilities are very much sought after today.
4. Lava Lamps by Mathmos
Lava lamps from the ’70s were also a popular item, especially the Mathmos models. Today, unboxed, working models in rare colors and with unique bases sell for $500-$1,000.
5. Peter Max Posters
Depending on the seller’s given range, authentic posters made by Peter Max from the 1970s can sell for as low as $300 or as high as $1500. Posters that have been signed by Max tend to go for more than posters that have not been signed. Due to the artist’s unique style, the poster was able to capture the optimism of the entire era.
6. Dansk Kobenstyle Cookware
Cookware that consisted of enameled steel was and still is considered a necessity for a bright and beautiful kitchen. Individually, her original cookware can be sold for $200-500. Sets that include the original teak handles can reach prices of more than $1,000.
7. Ettore Sottsass Mirrors
People buy these Memphis Group designed pieces that come with original colored panes because of the distinct look that the 70s avant-garde style brought. Because of the bold designs and geometric shapes, the pieces can go up to $3,000-5,000. The height of the Memphis Group style is also identified as the height of the 70s avant-garde design movement.
8. Sylvania Gro-Lux Plant Lights
During the vintage house plant collecting craze, specialized plant lights turned into collectible pieces. With the increasing popularity of vintage house plant care, the space age design has caused the plant lights to become even more collectible. Complete sets that include their original chrome stand and working fixtures can sell for between $200 and $400.
9. Curtis Jere Wall Sculptures
These sculptures created the illusion of depth to a space because of the patina and shadows that they created. This is a reason as to why these pieces were considered to be favorite among Paul’s of the home that were either modern or traditional. Signed, original, and abstract wall sculptures that incorporate brass and copper, including designs that are sunburst and ones that are considered to be abstract, can be sold for $800 to as high as $2,500.
10. Hornsea Pottery Storage Jars
British ceramic containers made in Britain are now highly appraised ceramic containers. Sets of the “Brontë” and “Heirloom” patterns can reach upwards of $300-600; large coffee storage jars with original cork lids are among the rarest instances of this product.
11. George Nelson Bubble Lamps
Producers from the 1970s, such as the Howard Miller Collection, are highly appraised for their pendant lamps. In particular, the propeller and lantern design molded pendant lights can be sold at an estimate of $1,000 to $2,500. The molded design lights maintain an appeal that endures to current times as the designs appear modern.
12. Bitossi Rimini Blue Ceramics
Highly appreciated among collectors are the Italian ceramics, which are blue glazed to perfection and strategically placed for surfaced textiles. Blue glazed Italian ceramics, including large animal or specific vase pieces, can be sold for an estimate of $400-800.
13. Lucite Ice Buckets
Party products from the 1970s with chrome and brass detailing are expected to be sold at an estimate of $200-400. The highest star value is attributed to items such as tortoiseshell designs or those with flowers. Sets that are complete with originally cased tongs and lining are sold for remarkably high prices.
