In these challenging times, with the rising cost of living, many people are looking for ways to boost their income.

If you have a passion for antiques and collectibles, there are ways you can make money from your interests with little to no investment. Check out these five top tips to help you get started.

Collect rare coins

Some modern coins still in circulation are worth a reasonable amount. All you have to do to start collecting and selling these coins is check your change when spending with cash in stores. Get clued up about which coins to look for (you can do that here or with a quick Google search). Every time you get change, put aside rare coins so you can check their value or list them for sale later. One example is the 2009 Kew Gardens 50p which has been known to sell for a few hundred pounds, so it is worth keeping an eye out for. While unconventional, if you want another way to get serious about this, nothing stops you from withdrawing your money from the bank and requesting it all in one coin, such as 50-pence pieces. Then all you would have to do is sift through, set aside the rare coins, and deposit the rest back into the bank.

Go treasure hunting

Treasure hunting with a metal detector can be a fun hobby, and you never know what you might find. People regularly find old coins, jewellery and other metal items in their gardens, local beaches or countryside areas. Sometimes, people get lucky and hit the jackpot with a rare historical find that makes the headlines. If you’re considering taking up metal detecting for the first time, it’s essential to understand the rules and regulations about metal detecting and treasure finds. Check out this handy guide to help you get started and learn the dos and don’ts of metal detecting in the UK.

Pick up free to collect items

You’d be amazed at what some people give away for free. Keep an eye out for items left out on the roadside to take or listed on free-to-collect pages online. This tip is somewhat controversial as some people scorn at the idea of collecting free things to sell for a profit when they could be made use of by someone in need. While there’s technically nothing stopping you from collecting free items to sell, consider treading carefully. If you spot the occasional treasure – go for it, but try not to be greedy and give a little consideration to others who may genuinely need the items.

Sell items you already have

Many people have valuable treasures lying around their homes. If you want to make some extra cash, consider having a clear-out and selling old, vintage or unwanted items. Perhaps you have things stored away in the loft that you’ve forgotten about, which could be worth money today. Everyday items of value that people have stored away include vintage toys, records, jewellery, ornaments and retro electronics.

Go bargain hunting

You’ll be surprised at what you can pick up in charity shops, boot sales and online marketplaces for next for nothing. If you have an eye for valuable items and time to rummage, you could find yourself bagging some bargains that turn a nice profit when sold on. Charity shops, boot sales and online marketplaces are full of things people want to get rid of as quickly as possible. Often sellers are unaware of the value some items hold, which gives you an excellent opportunity to invest in antiques, collectables and vintage items at little cost. A top tip here is to source second-hand items in more affluent areas where it is not uncommon, for example, to find designer clothing and handbags donated for free to charity shops.

Hopefully, these tips have inspired you to start making some extra cash from your passion for antiques and collectables. Many people start by following frugal tips like this and later turn it into a full-time business by reinvesting the profits. We wish you the best of luck with your treasure hunting!