The 1950s brought us the golden age of holiday cheer, with decorations that sparkled, jingled, and lit up our homes in ways that felt truly magical. Today, those vintage treasures aren’t just sentimental—they’re worth a fortune. Whether it’s the craftsmanship, rarity, or their connection to a simpler, more festive era, these decorations have collectors reaching for their wallets.
1. Shiny Brite Ornaments
No ’50s Christmas tree was complete without a collection of Shiny Brite ornaments. These glass baubles, often hand-painted and glittered, were made in the USA after WWII. Intact sets in their original packaging are now highly collectible, with rare designs fetching thousands.
2. Aluminum Christmas Trees
These shimmering metallic trees, often paired with color wheels, epitomized mid-century modern holiday style. Aluminum trees fell out of favor for years but have roared back in popularity. Pristine examples from brands like Evergleam can sell for thousands, especially with their original boxes.
3. Blow Mold Decorations
Larger-than-life plastic Santa Claus and snowman blow molds were a staple of 1950s front yards. Companies like Empire Plastics and General Foam produced them, but they’re hard to find in good condition today. Vintage blow molds, particularly rare designs, can fetch a hefty sum.
4. Ceramic Christmas Trees with Lights
These tabletop trees, often made by companies like Atlantic Mold, featured tiny plastic bulbs that lit up in various colors. They were popular craft projects in the ’50s, and well-preserved examples (especially larger ones) have become sought-after collectibles.
5. Bubble Lights
Bubble lights added a mesmerizing glow to holiday decor with their liquid-filled tubes that bubbled when heated. Their quirky charm and fragile nature make surviving sets rare and valuable. Original bubble light sets in working order can bring in big bucks.
6. Kugels
While kugels originated in Germany long before the 1950s, they experienced a resurgence in post-war America. These heavy glass ornaments, often silvered inside, were prized for their reflective beauty. Rare colors like cobalt blue or cranberry red are especially valuable.
7. Feather Trees
Feather trees date back to the Victorian era but were popular among ’50s decorators looking for a retro touch. These handcrafted trees, made from dyed goose feathers, are rare finds today. Larger, well-preserved ones can command prices in the thousands.
8. Gurley Holiday Candles
Gurley made whimsical holiday candles shaped like Santas, snowmen, and reindeer. They were so charming many families didn’t burn them, which is why they’ve survived. Unused Gurley candles in mint condition, especially rarer designs, are highly collectible.
9. Angel Chimes
These delicate candle-powered chimes, often featuring spinning angels or stars, were a favorite for creating an enchanting atmosphere. Vintage sets made in Germany or Sweden are especially prized, and complete sets in working condition can sell for a small fortune.
10. Vintage Nativity Sets
Nativity sets were a cherished centerpiece in many ’50s homes, and those made by companies like Fontanini or Italian craftsmen are especially valuable. Sets with intricate detailing or made from hand-painted porcelain often fetch high prices at auctions.
11. Christmas Village Houses
Cardboard or paper mâché Christmas villages with glittery snow roofs were iconic holiday displays. Made in Japan, these “putz” houses were often part of train sets or mantle displays. Complete collections in great condition can be worth thousands to serious collectors.
12. Santa Head Decorations
Whether it was tree toppers, wall plaques, or even cookie jars, 1950s Santa decorations were as jolly as they come. Vintage ceramic Santa heads, particularly from high-quality brands like Holt-Howard, are now prized collectibles with prices to match.
These decorations weren’t just festive—they captured the wonder of the holiday season in a way that has stood the test of time. Their scarcity, craftsmanship, and nostalgic pull have turned them into valuable heirlooms, proving that the magic of Christmas never really fades.
