“One man's junk is another man's treasure” as the saying goes. No one knows what will be valuable in the future but we can have a good guess. Here are some candidates for the collectables of the future:
Collectables of the Future
Harry Potter Books
The first book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone, was printed in 1997 and some have already become very valuable. Should you be lucky enough to own a first edition copy which is signed by the author, it may be worth as much as £10,000 already. Factors that will affect the value include whether it is hardback or not, condition and whether it is signed by the author.
The First Apple iPhone
Released in 2007 and designed by Jonathan Ive for technology giant Apple, the original iPhone sold 6.1 million units before it was discontinued in 2008. It has a 3.5in glass touch screen and was named Time magazines Invention of the Year 2007. It was the must have gadget but, to be valuable in the future, it must remain unused and still boxed.
McDonald's Happy Meal Toys
Despite being accused of contributing the increase in child obesity, McDonald Restaurants are the world's largest distributor of toys. How many times have you bought a Happy Meal for your children and got a toy they already have? Maybe a complete set of toys will be worth something in the future.
Furby
Selling over 40 million units and translated into 24 languages, the Furby was the must have toy for Christmas 1998. It was so in demand that when shelves ran bare, parents resorted to fighting and many turned to the internet where they sold for up to three times their original selling price.
The First Nintendo Wii
Released by Nintendo in 2006 the Wii, as of August 2011, is the best selling console of its generation. With it's distinguishing wireless remote, it works by aiming the Wii remote at the sensor bar that detects the motion in three dimensions. Although mass-produced, not many will remain in prime condition.
Football Match Day Program
How about a match day program from 14th May 2011, when Manchester United drew 1-1 with Blackpool to win their 19th English league title? This beat Liverpool's record of 18 title wins. I suppose whether you are a Manchester United or Liverpool supporter would define whether this is collectable or not!
Christian Louboutin shoes
With his trademark red soles, every girl wants to own a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes. Religiously worn by former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham, only the top luxury stores sell the brand, however this does not stop it from being consistently faked. The only problem is, to be worth something in the future they must stay in the box!
Raffaele Iannello's Voodoo
Founded in 1921, the Alessi cookware company produces kitchen utensils made from plastic and stainless steel. But they aren't just any utensils; they made everyday objects stylish and designer. Their most well known product is Raffaele Iannello's Voodoo/the Ex, which is the figure of a man used as a knife block.
Royal Wedding Coins
Struck on the same day as the Royal Wedding, layered in 24 carat gold and with only 50,000 produced, the commemorative coin to celebrate the marriage of Kate Middleton to Prince William is a tribute to a historic royal event. This item can be purchased for as little as £4.95.
XXX Olympiad
The Games of the XXX Olympiad are due to be held in 2012 in London, England. Many tickets for events are now sold out but should you be one of the lucky ones, keep anything that might be classed as a souvenir in the future. For example, a ticket or program from the opening ceremony or possibly something signed by one of the athletes. Make sure you that anything you keep is in as perfect a condition as possible.