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Receiving an heirloom is a huge deal. You’re being handed a prized possession as a forever keepsake. If you’re lucky, you will receive something cool enough to share online. 

These people are doing just that–sharing the most interesting inheritances they’ve received from someone close to them. Some took home a new pet, while others got antiques, sparkling jewelry, and classic cars, each with a unique backstory. 

We’ve collected some of the best ones from various corners of Reddit. Enjoy scrolling through, and feel free to share any family or friend heirlooms you’ve received.

Click here & follow us for more lists, facts, and stories.

#1

I Inherited My Grandmother’s Cat

Fluffy black and white cat lounging on a blue couch with colorful pillows, a cool inheritance shared by people.

He’s pretty cool.

crazycatlady328 Report

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    #2

    Inherited This From My Dad

    White 1960s Shelby GT350 Mustang car inherited and displayed in a garage and on the street in a residential area.

    Short_Expert1900 Report

    #3

    Just Inherited My Grandmother’s Recipe Box And I Don’t Know Where To Start! These Stretch Back To The 40s And Have Handwritten Notes And Additions. Give Me A Section And I’ll Post The Most Interesting Recipes

    Hand holding a vintage recipe card box filled with categorized handwritten recipe cards, a unique inheritance treasure.

    LadyParnassus Report

    Sentimental values aside, some family heirlooms may make your home feel cluttered. Books collect dust, and furniture with no particular purpose only takes up space. 

    When dealing with heirlooms, professional organizer Julia Williamson advises prioritizing making good use of them.

    #4

    Inherited My Dog From A Former Roommate Who Got Him Off Craigslist. He’s 112lbs And Comes Up To My Waist. I See German Shepherd And Possibly Lab, But What Else?

    Person sharing the coolest inheritance received, featuring a black dog outdoors and resting indoors on a couch.

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    #5

    My Inheritance: Mom’s Cat Is Here To Stay

    Light brown cat lying on a carpet surrounded by a collection of vintage Playbill theater programs inheritance display.

    TW: parental loss
    This is Joey, my Mom’s huge orange cat. He has spent all of his life fat, happy, and an only very spoiled cat.
    He’s been here since February but as of last Friday, he’s officially ours. He now has two sisters who are not amused. He also has lost some weight because he likes to play and run around with his new siblings, much to their annoyance.
    I arranged my Mom’s Playbills for a photo. Joey came by and sat on her collection. It was his little tribute.

    MaddyandOwensMom Report

    #6

    Inheriting A 39 Year Old Parrot While 8 Months Pregnant

    Green and yellow parrot perched on a metal cage, showcasing a unique inheritance among cool inheritance stories and photos.

    I made a post a few months ago explaining that my husband’s grandfather had passed away, leaving a 39 year old hello headed Amazon who needed a home and that despite being 8 months pregnant with our first child and having no experience with birds, we had decided to step up and be the family members who brought him home.

    linkon_1848 Report

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    “If there are family letters or photos you love to look at, put them in an album or otherwise make them accessible — using archival materials to keep them safe,” Williamson wrote in an article for Business Insider. 

    Old paintings and records can be framed and hung on a wall for room decor. As Williamson writes, “Revel in these inherited treasures.”

    #7

    Ring Originally Belonged To My Husbands Great-Great Aunt. His Grandmother Inherited It, Eventually Passing It To My Husband While We Were Dating Saying, “Either Give This To Op Or Give It Back To Me”

    Hand wearing an intricate diamond ring and close-up of two diamond rings held, showcasing coolest inheritance jewelry received.

    His grandmother never wore the ring and I haven’t changed anything about it since my husband gave it to me two years ago. It’s a bit flashy but I adore it.

    User Report

    #8

    I Am The 4th Woman In The Family To Inherit My Great Grandma’s Wedding Necklace. She Got Married At 15 In 1956 Back Home In Pakistan

    Hand holding a traditional gold necklace with green and red gemstones, a cool inheritance jewelry piece.

    22k pakistani gold, one of our family’s many jewellery heirlooms

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    #9

    Inherited My Dad’s Analog Collection. Kind Of Overwhelmed

    Collection of vintage cameras inherited, displayed on a wooden table in a cozy living room setting.

    farewelltokings2 Report

    Some face the challenge of picking which items to toss out and which to keep. Instead of keeping everything and being a pack rat, Williamson recommends saving heirlooms that hold great personal importance, are useful, and have historical significance. 

    If you’re still facing a dilemma, Williamson suggests setting aside boxes and revisiting them after a few months. 

    “As time goes by, you will realize that the antique train that seemed so special has lost its magic, and it will be easier to let it go,” she wrote.

    #10

    Inherited This Car

    Vintage red Studebaker car parked in a driveway, an example of a cool inheritance from classic vehicles shared by people.

    Hello! I know nothing about cars but I recently inherited this beautiful Studebaker. Could anyone tell me the exact year/name of it, and any other info about it? I won’t be holding onto it, but I’d like to be as informed as possible about what I have. Thanks for any reply

    lovelyopponent Report

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    #11

    Me In My Father’s Old Circesian Dance Uniform

    Man wearing a bright red traditional outfit posing indoors, showcasing a unique and coolest inheritance item received.

    treadbolt5 Report

    #12

    My Mom Died So I Inherited Her Shih Tzu

    Small dog lying on a chair next to a Santa Claus doll and a festive pillow, part of cool inheritance items shared.

    My mom recently died of cancer, it happened very quickly. Four years prior, we traveled out of state and we each got a shih tzu. We were so happy with our puppies. At that time, she made me promise I would take her dog if anything happened to her which I was happy to do. I never would have guessed it would happen so soon.
    My mom and her dog were inseparable. He followed her everywhere as shih tzu’s do and even went to work with her. He was there when she passed so I hope he has some closure with that. He went from a quiet house with my mom to moving in with my family that consists of my husband, three kids and two other shih tzus. Thankfully, I am a SAHM so I spend a lot of time with him and we go for walks often. It has only been three weeks. He seems pretty confused here but is starting to play and show his personality.
    My male shih tzu is not very friendly with him. Growls and sometimes attacks him if he gets too close to me. They both seem to be alpha males so neither back down. My female shih tzu is great with my mom’s dogs but I feel so bad for the little guy and just hope he is happy here. Here’s a picture of my mom’s dog, he is so sweet and well behaved.

    Otherwise_Ad_1340 Report

    Many younger people today prefer not to inherit family heirlooms from their parents or grandparents. Since some antiques hold little to no value, they are often rejected or disposed of. 

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    In an interview with PBS, Former National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) president Susan Devaney explained that young couples would rather not have “the same things people used to have.”

    #13

    I Inherited This Watch Recently, Was Told It Was My Great Grandmothers (She Lived 1890-1950). Does Anyone Know What Year It’s From?

    Vintage Bulova wristwatch with emerald details in original case, a stunning cool inheritance treasured by the owner.

    mags1027 Report

    #14

    Inherited This Ring From Grandma, Was Told It’s 18k Gold, Diamonds & Rubies. Weighs About 3oz. About 1.5” Wide

    Vintage ring with rubies and diamonds set in silver, featured among the coolest inheritance pieces shared by 50 people

    douglaslagos Report

    #15

    Check Out These Levi's That Belonged To My Mother In The 1970s!! I Totally Over Wear These Pants. Haha

    Young woman posing indoors wearing plaid pants and a green vest, representing coolest inheritance style in modern fashion.

    maricano9 Report

    Ultimately, heirlooms are tangible traditions passed down through generations. As Mumford Restoration notes, they bridge the present and the past. It’s all a matter of keeping those that matter the most. 

    #16

    Inherited This Guitar

    Vintage acoustic guitar with intricate floral inlay design, displayed in an open hard case as a unique inheritance.

    I recently inherited this guitar and I’d like to learn more about it. I haven’t been able to find a name on it a brand I think it might be custom-made. What do you think?

    GoldieKind Report

    #17

    My Daughter Wearing Her Great-Great-Grandmother’s Wedding Dress

    Young person in traditional vintage clothing standing next to antique wooden dining table and chairs, showcasing cool inheritance.

    reddit.com Report

    #18

    Inherited This From My Grandmother. Would This Make For A Good Engagement Ring?

    Gold ring with a central diamond and smaller side diamonds in a green velvet box, a cool inheritance item shared by people.

    Motor_Head9575 Report

    Now, we would like to hear from you. What was the best and most interesting heirloom you received? What is the story behind it? Share them in the comments.

    #19

    My Inheritance From My Stepdad

    Potted indoor plant and a dog lying on carpet with a stuffed toy, illustrating cool inheritance ideas shared by people.

    I inherited two things from my beloved step dad, his dog who’s the best boy, and his Yuka Tree.
    While his family cleared the house I left the tree as it was rather heavy and we needed to move some furniture first. It’s been a couple days and his family have moved a lot of the furniture out and left the plant outside his house for me to go get and I’ve come to find it and it seems someone decided to pull all its leaves off. I’m not sure if it was malicious or kids in the area, I just hope they grow back.

    barberbee Report

    #20

    Inheriting The Family Stack

    Gold bars, gold nuggets, and an hourglass arranged on a wooden surface as a cool inheritance display.

    User Report

    #21

    This Cat That Inherited The Tabby Pattern And Color Only On Its Head

    Close-up of a gray and white kitten with green eyes, representing one of the coolest inheritances received by people.

    edgeplorer Report

    #22

    Inheriting My Stanley Thermos

    Colorful woven bag, green Stanley thermos with cup of coffee, and worn sandals on grass, showing a cool inheritance item.

    My dad died very unexpectedly almost 3 months ago now. This was his Stanley thermos that's somewhere around 20 years old and in basically perfect condition. I've always wanted one of my own and have been on the lookout at garage sales and thrift stores. Now it's mine, and it's bittersweet but it's a nice memory that will be around forever.

    halicarnassus-geode Report

    #23

    My Grandmothers Monstera She Inherited From Her Mother In 86. It Is Well Over 50-Years Old

    Large monstera plant inherited and placed near a window in a bright room, showcasing a unique cool inheritance idea.

    Mamma-grus Report

    #24

    We Inherited A Cat... His Name Is Pumpkin But We Also Call Him Pig Cat

    Orange and white cat resting on a blanket, showcasing a cozy and unique inheritance moment from new pics collection.

    User Report

    #25

    My Great Grandma Millie’s Best Dress. I Wish I Could Ask Her More About It. Would Not Be Surprised If It Were Handmade

    Vintage rust-colored dress with gold clasp displayed beside black and white framed photo of a couple, a cool inheritance shared.

    Spoonless727 Report

    #26

    Anyone Know Anything About This Box I Inherited?

    Ornate antique silver box with three dragon heads on the lid, a unique cool inheritance item on a wooden table.

    Very heavy bronze with silver plate.

    User Report

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    #27

    Recently Inherited 1964 Galaxie

    Vintage yellow Ford car with engine details, showcasing one of the coolest inheritances shared by 50 people.

    User Report

    #28

    Inherited From My Father 6 Months Ago. Wore It For The First Time Today

    Silver Rolex watch on wrist, showcasing a cool inheritance piece in a casual indoor setting.

    User Report

    #29

    My Great-Great Grandmother's Wedding Blouse From 1902

    Woman holding vintage dress and old black and white photo showcasing a unique inheritance shared by 50 people.

    awena626 Report

    #30

    Inherited 24k Gold Bracelet 40 Grams

    Gold and diamond bracelets inherited, shown on a wrist with detailed close-up in new pics.

    Smnadn Report

    #31

    Found This Gold Bar In A Safe I Inherited. What’s It Worth?

    Hand holding a gold-colored tin labeled Portuguese gold sardines, a unique inheritance item.

    User Report

    #32

    Recently Inherited This Natural Diamond Tennis Chain And Was Wondering If It Looks Too Feminine On A Guy

    Close-up of a person wearing a diamond necklace as a cool inheritance they received, shown over a white shirt.

    I don’t know how much it’s worth and I’m getting it appraised soon, but would love some of yalls experience

    DefiantPercentage453 Report

    #33

    My Son Inherited My Joined Together Toes

    Close-up of adult feet behind newborn baby feet demonstrating a heartwarming inheritance moment.

    User Report

    #34

    I Inherited This. What Would You Do?

    Old abandoned house with weathered wood siding and overgrown yard, part of a cool inheritance shared by people

    This was my father's home, back half built in 1873 and front half built in 1906. I grew up here, but it's gone several decades without proper maintenance. What would you do, knowing that it's owned free and clear?

    User Report

    #35

    After My Grandads Death, I Inherited All His Old £££. I Thought It Would Be Nice To Add The Latest Discontinued Notes To His Collection

    Collection of vintage and modern British banknotes displayed on a table, showcasing a unique inheritance keepsake.

    kristoffison Report

    #36

    Inherited This Insane Ring From My Great Great Aunty. How Old Is It?

    Diamond-studded inheritance ring held in a green velvet box and shown up close between fingers.

    I need help finding information on this kind gift as I know very little about it. I've tried myself but didn't get anywhere. She was born in 1912, and lived around Bolton, UK all her life. The note was in the bag with the ring, describing the '69 diamonds' inlaid in Platinum. This description has been cut out of a bigger piece of paper - possibly the receipt? The scribbles where there when I got it.
    It seems well made as all of the diamonds are flush with the ring (I literally know nothing lol). I'm terrified of wearing it in case I lose one.

    User Report

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    #37

    Inherited My Grandfather’s Watch Today, What Am I Looking At Here?

    Hand holding a vintage Croton Nivada Grenchen aviator sea diver watch, a unique cool inheritance item.

    Grandfather was an airline captain, circa 1960’s. According to my grandmother, the bracelet was a custom made silver piece that weighs about a pound. Would like to have it cleaned up and functional, with a leather band so that I am able to enjoy the watch in the future. What is my best path forward?

    myc210 Report

    #38

    Inheriting My Late Father's Mustang At 17; What To Know?

    Yellow sports car parked on a shaded driveway surrounded by trees, a cool inheritance example from new pics collection.

    Respect the power, filing under my mother for insurance etc.

    toasterman2507 Report

    #39

    Inherited My Mother’s Favorite Ring. Thoughts?

    Close-up of a gold diamond ring inherited by a person with blue painted nails, showcasing a unique vintage design.

    Is it vintage and cool or look outdated? Anyone have any insight on the design/style?

    ThrowRA2557 Report

    #40

    From Great Aunt’s Inheritance

    Gold bracelet with colorful gemstones and a vintage portrait charm, a unique inheritance showcasing cool collectible jewelry.

    Given this interesting bracelet with some sort of image in the center. Any ideas about it? Thanks for your time. And if this is not the correct place to post please let me know.

    West_Ad_4764 Report

    #41

    My New Keystone Olympic Standard 8mm Film Video Camera, Inherited From My Great Grandfather

    Vintage Keystone movie camera inherited, showing external design and internal film mechanism details.

    Day47media Report

    #42

    Mechanical / Automatic Watches Appreciation

    Vintage Omega wristwatch with metal band worn on wrist, showcasing a cool inheritance item in a casual setting.

    I Inherited my Grandfathers Omega Geneve (late 1960’s). He wore it every day on the farm and it was in pretty rough shape when I got it last year.
    Some service at a local watchmaker and it’s good as new. Manual wind. Should last another couple of generations

    Dunsteen Report

    #43

    Inherited A Large Amount Of Comicbooks

    Vintage comic books including Mister Miracle and Thor, showcasing cool inheritance collectibles from various eras.

    I recently inherited a large amount of comic books. Many are from the 1970s. Also some from the 80s and 90s. I’ve been enjoying looking through them but I’m new to it. Are there any holy grail books I should be looking for? Also not sure I can keep them in my limited space. If anyone in Baton Rouge, Louisiana wants to look through them, shoot me a message.

    club27vinyl Report

    #44

    Inherited These Rings From My Great Aunt. They Are Priceless To Me, But Should I Get Them Evaluated?

    Close-up of hands wearing multiple vintage diamond rings as a cool inheritance treasured by the owner

    Don’t know where to start with these rings! Not looking to sell them, but I would love to know more about them in general.
    The top 2 rings are marked “900 PLAT” on the inside
    The bottom gold ring is marked 14k
    The next ring up is obviously broken but still looks nice

    Aurora1073 Report

    #45

    Inherited This Ring From My Grandpa Over 20 Years Ago. Was Told He Got It While Fighting In Ww2. Any Idea What It Might Be?

    Gold lion head ring with a diamond centerpiece shown on finger and resting on wooden surface, a unique inheritance piece.

    ico59 Report

    #46

    Braun Coffee Grinder Made In West Germany

    Vintage Braun electric coffee grinder in orange, a unique and cool inheritance received by someone.

    I “inherited” this coffee grinder when we went remote during COVID.
    I realized it was made made before the Berlin Wall fell when I was trying to buy another for a friend who was seeking a replacement. Bonus points it is a fun color.

    _futuresting_ Report

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    #47

    My Dad Recently Passed Away And Left Me With All Of His Ham Radio And Testing Equipment. Need Help Identifying Some Items And Their Value

    Vintage scientific equipment and meters displayed as a collection of the coolest inheritance received by people

    CVLRY01 Report

    #48

    Inherited Cards From Brother Who Passed Away

    Collection of rare and holographic trading cards displayed in a frame as a cool inheritance collectible.

    Hi Pokémon fans. My brother who was really into Pokémon cards sadly passed away recently and I got more or less all of his possessions.
    I tried to make a poster out of the cards I thought looked the coolest but couldn't fit the ones in the thicker plastic, I also don't have much of a clue when it comes to Pokémon. Any tips or recommendations about what to do with them? I can't imagine I'll ever sell them even if they are worth something as I know he loved his cards.
    Thanks for any tips! Its much appreciated

    Carlsssson Report

    #49

    Inherited All These Clubs. What Do I Do?

    Large collection of golf clubs packed in U-Haul boxes, showcasing a unique and cool inheritance received by someone.

    Inherited all these clubs from my uncle. What’s the best way to unload them (hopefully for $)?

    elvisfan2000 Report

    #50

    Friend Of Mines Coworker Inherited “Ancient Mayan Alien Ruins”

    Ancient carved artifacts and pottery displayed in a case, showcasing a unique and cool inheritance collection.

    Context: his dad spent $10,000 on a briefcase at a auction. My friend claims he got cursed after he put on the ring. The day they put it on they got robbed at gun point and got rear ended. The week after they got rear ended again. The month after they got their house broken into.

    User Report

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