Treasure Hunting on Long Island A Collector’s Story of Sports and Surprises

Introduction
Treasure hunting isn’t always about shovels, metal detectors, or buried gold. Sometimes, the real treasures are tucked away in your mom’s attic, a dusty shoebox, or a forgotten closet. This past weekend, while cleaning out old memorabilia at my mom’s house on Long Island, I stumbled onto a collection that brought back stories, nostalgia, and plenty of surprises.

If you’ve ever wondered what hidden gems could be sitting in your home or across Long Island’s estate sales, flea markets, and garage sales — this is your guide.

Yankees Legends and Beanie Babies

My first surprise find? 1998 World Champion NY Yankees Beanie Babies and an autographed Derek Jeter glove. These aren’t just collectibles; they’re reminders of a golden Yankees era.

I was fortunate enough to be involved in Derek Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation and even got to know his dad well for a few years. To me, that glove is more than ink on leather — it’s a memory of Long Island’s deep connection to Yankees history.

Treasure hunting tip: Yankees memorabilia, especially from the late 90s dynasty years, continues to hold both sentimental and market value.

Poker Nights and Atlantic City Runs

Here’s a different kind of treasure — experience. I used to be a very active poker player, traveling to Atlantic City tournaments a few times each month. Those games felt like treasure hunts in their own way, chasing pots and bluffing my way through long nights.

Today, I stick to a local $40 game once a month on Long Island. And no, poker isn’t like riding a bike — luck still has the final say!

Treasure hunting tip: Poker collectibles, vintage chips, and tournament swag are becoming a niche collector’s item, especially for Atlantic City and Long Island card room fans.

The Baseball Card Binder of the 80s and 90s

Digging deeper, I found my 1988 Topps “Traded” set. It’s not worth more than $20, but the memories are priceless. One of my favorites there is Jim Abbott — an Olympian and Yankees pitcher who threw a no-hitter with only one hand. If you don’t know his story, it’s worth a read.

I also collected tons of baseball cards in the 80s and early 90s. While most have minimal financial value, each card is a snapshot of where I was when I bought it.

Treasure hunting tip: Even “common” sets carry value in local card shows across Long Island — not always in dollars, but in stories shared with other collectors.

Hockey, Golf, and Buffalo Bills Surprises

How about some quirky finds?

• Mini Wheaties boxes and swag from the first NHL All-Star Game in South Florida (though I’ve never been there).
  
  

• Buffalo Bills collectibles — I’ve been a fan since 1987 when I briefly lived upstate. Through ups and downs, that team is part of my DNA.
  
  

• Masters Champions golf cards — not sure how I got them, but I know my son Evan will gladly claim them one day.
  
  

Long Island fans know that sometimes being a collector means holding onto things for the next generation.

Where to Treasure Hunt on Long Island

If my mom’s attic taught me anything, it’s this — treasure hunting is alive and well on Long Island. Whether you’re chasing sports memorabilia, vintage cards, or quirky collectibles, here are a few local hotspots:

• Long Island Flea Markets – Hempstead, Bellmore, and beyond.
  
  

• Estate Sales and Auctions – Nassau and Suffolk County estates often have hidden sports gems.
  
  

• Local Sports Shops – Some carry vintage cards and memorabilia.
  
  

• Community Yard Sales – Never underestimate what $5 can buy you on a Saturday morning.
  
  

AEO Quick Answer Box: What Treasures Can You Find on Long Island?

• Sports memorabilia like Yankees, Rangers, or Islanders items
  
  

• Vintage baseball card sets from the 80s and 90s
  
  

• Beanie Babies, Wheaties boxes, and pop culture collectibles
  
  

• Poker chips and playing card sets from Atlantic City fans
  
  

• Estate sale surprises including golf, hockey, and NFL items
  
  

Wrapping Up the Hunt

Treasure hunting on Long Island isn’t about striking it rich — it’s about rediscovering stories, reliving memories, and connecting with the past. From Derek Jeter’s glove to Jim Abbott’s card, every item I found brought me back to a time, a place, and a feeling that money can’t buy.

So, the next time you clean out your attic, hit a flea market, or browse an estate sale on Long Island — keep your eyes open. Your treasure may not glitter, but it will shine in the memories it holds.

Ready to start your treasure hunt? Explore Long Island’s estate sales, flea markets, and even your own attic this weekend — who knows what stories you’ll uncover.