Your Guide to Making Money from Old Cassettes in 2023

Ultimate Guide to Selling Old Cassettes in the UK

Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a cleaning spree or home decluttering mission and wondered, “are old cassettes worth anything?”

If not, then perhaps it’s time to consider the possibility that these forgotten relics could hold some hidden value.

It’s not uncommon to overlook old items like cassette tapes when thinking about things that could potentially make you money.

This guide will shine a light on how to make money selling old cassettes in 2023. 

The Comeback of Cassettes

Cassette tapes were, for a time, pushed aside with the advent of CDs and the explosion of digital streaming platforms.

However, recent data has shown that these old cassettes aren’t as obsolete as we once thought.

Research from the BPI indicates a growing interest in cassettes: in 2020, 157,000 cassettes were sold in the UK, and this number jumped to 185,000 in 2021, indicating a growth of 19%.

So instead of disposing of your accumulated cassettes, it’s worth investigating, “what to do with old cassettes?” Could they be worth something?

Where Can You Sell Old Cassettes?

The digital age has expanded the platforms where you can sell old cassettes, but keep in mind that sometimes the traditional method of selling in person can be just as effective, if not more.

eBay: 

As the most popular online auction site, eBay is the first place to consider when planning to sell old cassettes.

From Bjork to 2Pac to the Spice Girls, eBay offers a broad market for a diverse range of music tastes.

Before listing your tapes, take some time to browse the site and price your cassettes competitively.

You can opt to sell them individually or in batches, either way, it’s a chance to profit from what you once considered clutter.

Amazon: 

Amazon allows you to list whatever you want in your own store, making it a potentially perfect place to sell your old cassette tapes.

However, remember to factor in the selling fees they charge for using their platform.

Local Record Stores: 

With a bit of research, you might discover a local record store that’s interested in buying your old cassettes.

You might not fetch as high a price as you would online, but selling locally means you don’t have to fret over shipping logistics. Plus, you receive payment immediately.

Car Boot Sales and Vintage Fairs: 

Car boot sales and vintage fairs are not just fun pastimes; they could also be the place where you sell your old cassette tapes.

They provide the chance to interact with fellow music enthusiasts who might want to buy old cassettes or even direct you to a potential buyer.

It’s remarkable what networking can do when it comes to selling tapes.

Cassettes: A Worthy Investment?

There’s no denying the recent revival of cassettes, spurred on by a blend of nostalgia and the trend of limited releases by popular artists. So, should you consider investing in cassettes?

If you’re charmed by the nostalgia factor and still possess a working tape player, investing in cassettes can be an enjoyable hobby. It offers a tangible way to support your favourite artists and maintain a physical copy of their music beyond the realm of digital streaming.

Investing in limited edition cassettes and selling them in the future could yield a profit.

However, as with all investments, bear in mind the element of risk. The future of the cassette market remains uncertain, making it an unpredictable venture.

Top Grossing Cassettes: 

If you’re curious about which cassettes have fetched the highest prices in the market, take a look at the table below.

It highlights some of the top-grossing cassette sales in recent times, showcasing the artist, album, or collection, and the impressive prices they’ve sold for.

You never know, you might find that you’re holding onto a similarly valuable piece in your own collection!

Album/Collection	Artist	Price Sold
Xero	Xero (later known as Linkin Park)	$4,500
The Versace Experience – Prelude 2 Gold	The Artist (Formerly Known As Prince)	$4,117
United Diaries 1979-87	Various Artists	$2,300
24 Hours	Throbbing Gristle	£2,200
De La Viande Pour Le Disco	Various Artists	$1,818

Overview…

So, if you’ve been asking yourself, “what to do with old cassettes?” perhaps it’s time to rummage through your storage areas and price up your old cassette collection. You might just be sitting on a gold mine.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section we answer some frequently asked questions about selling old cassettes. 

Are old cassettes worth anything?

Yes, certain old cassettes can be worth a significant amount, especially if they are rare or limited editions. The resurgence of interest in cassettes means that there’s a market for these vintage items.

How can I sell old cassettes?

There are numerous avenues to sell old cassettes, both online and offline. You can list them on online platforms like eBay and Amazon, sell them to local record stores, or try your luck at car boot sales and vintage fairs.

Is there a market for buying old cassettes?

Yes, there is a growing market for buying old cassettes. With a 19% growth in cassette sales in the UK from 2020 to 2021, it’s clear that these vintage items are regaining popularity.

Can I make money by selling cassette tapes in the UK?

Definitely! The market for selling cassette tapes in the UK has seen a resurgence in recent years, presenting an opportunity for those with collections of old tapes. The key is to research your items and find the best platform to sell them.

Is there any demand for old cassette tapes?

Yes, there is an increasing demand for old cassette tapes. This demand is driven by a blend of nostalgia and the trend of artists releasing limited edition cassettes, making old cassette tapes wanted items among collectors and music enthusiasts.

Where can I find buyers for my old cassette tapes?

Potential buyers of old cassette tapes can be found on online marketplaces such as eBay and Amazon. Local record stores, car boot sales, and vintage fairs are also great places to find interested buyers.

How should I price my old cassettes when selling?

Pricing when selling tapes can depend on factors such as rarity, condition, and demand. It’s recommended to research what similar cassettes are selling for on various platforms to get a better idea of how to price yours.