You probably know by now that your vintage ceramic Christmas tree could be worth a few bucks. Let me just confirm that I’m not talking about selling a ceramic tree that you got last Christmas. You could probably still get a few dollars for that, but I’m mostly referring to a real vintage Christmas collectible. Something from the 50s, 60s, 70s or 80s would fit the bill.
Some would say that you’re crazy to want to sell it. There could be many reasons for you wanting to do so.
-You could have a few extras lying around that you don’t know what to do with.
-For some reason, you just don’t like them and the idea of having some extra cash for Christmas presents is better.
-Your moving or immigrating to a new country and can’t take it with you.
Whatever the case, I want to help by providing you with some tips for selling your ceramic Christmas tree.
What are they worth?
I’ll admit that I’m not a world-renowned expert on ceramic Christmas tree value and vintage Christmas decorations. However, I have found a bit of information scouring the internet.
Most seem to sell in the range of $100-$250. The price depends a lot on factors such as age, condition, size and so forth. New ones tend to cost around $25 – $100. I think the best way to figure out a fair price is to look at the current market conditions.
Try to find similar trees to the one you want to sell and compare prices to get an estimation of what it’s worth. eBay is probably the best place to get started for second-hand Christmas stuff.
Tips for selling your tree
Selling your tree involves two key parts. You want to prepare and present it as best as possible and get as much exposure or eyeballs looking at your listing.
Prepare and present
Start by cleaning the ceramic tree. Check for any dents or chips and make note of it for your listing. Also, test the lights to see if they are still working.
Be sure to take a bunch of high-quality photos with a good camera and write a description that contains all the information about your tree. The more information you can provide the better. Try to include an origin story of your tree and somehow to authenticate the fact that it is really as old as you say it is.
This will not always be possible, but if you can include it, it will surely increase its value. Now that you have the tree and all your information ready, let’s move onto promoting it.
Get as much exposure possible
This part will require a little bit of work, but it’s all worth it. I’ve identified a few different ways you can sell your tree below.
eBay – You could get top dollar for your tree on eBay. Sign up and list your product. This part will take the most time, but eBay contains millions of buyers.
Craigslist – This is super simple, just post a classified ad online and see if you get any replies.
Friends and family – Maybe your cousin or some other relative would want your tree. Why not ask them? If you have most of your family members and friends on Facebook, just post a status update saying that you want to sell your tree.
Facebook groups – Just do a search for Christmas groups on Facebook, join them and post your ceramic tree for sale. Keep in mind that not every group will accept for sale items, so be sure to check group rules before posting. You can also try this group which is specifically for ceramic Christmas trees.
What’s next?
All you have to do now is check your messages, wait and hope someone buys your tree. Watch out that you don’t regret it though. Most vintage ceramic trees are hand down as heirlooms. Either way, if you are set on selling yours, the tips mentioned above will definitely help.
Please let me know how much you were able to sell your tree for!