Thrift stores are choc full of porcelain figurines that once lined a grandmother’s curio cabinet. Many people only think to purchase these outdated figures for upcycling projects, like spray-painting them gold for a more modern take, or painting them black for Halloween décor. The days of proudly displaying porcelain figures seem long gone (except when it comes to Staffordshire dog statues, which recently enjoyed a moment). But there are some porcelain pieces of décor you should never overlook in a thrift store because they could be valuable. Obvious valuable figurines would be from high-end brands Lladró, Dresden, or Meissen, but these aren’t likely to be found in a thrift shop (although if you do see one, for goodness’ sake grab it). However, there is a more popular brand of vintage figurines you can thrift and these are actually valuable: Precious Moments. 

Most children of the ’80s and ’90s will have been gifted a Precious Moments figurine at one point from a well-meaning relative. The first Precious Moments figurines were released in 1979, and are known as the “Original 21.” They were originally meant as giftware, but the huge response they received boosted them into collectible status. Although they are still being manufactured today, it is not as common to see Precious Moments collections (or any porcelain figurines) in homes as it was 30 years ago. Hence, many of these prized collections are either being donated or collecting dust in boxes, but they are among the household items that might be more valuable than you think.

There are several factors that can determine the value of a Precious Moments figure. Earlier pieces will have a “Jonathan & David” mark on the bottom (the original company name), and this mark will add value. Having a letter of authenticity, or a signature of the creator, Samuel J. Butcher, will up the resale price. Also, Precious Moments figurines with two or more subjects on a base tend to be more valuable than single characters. 

Like most collectibles, the older and rarer they are, the better. Many collectors want a complete set of the Original 21 figures, so finding one in good condition could earn you $200 to $800 (based on e-Bay sales). The only exception would be the “Love One Another” figure, which is still being manufactured today and readily available. But some relatively newer pieces are among the most valuable things to look out for at estate sales because they were part of a limited edition series. For instance, a rare Cinderella’s carriage figure was released in 2010 and sold a mere nine years later for $1,500. Other rare figurines are those sold exclusively at the Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, Missouri.