It was a windy Wednesday evening, and I had set a rule for this month: no buying anything. No reselling, no clothes, nothing. But just a couple of days ago, I had sold a video game for 80 euros, and of course, as a reseller, the money started itching in my pocket. I really wanted to see what the charity shop had.
The town I live in actually has two good ones. One specializes in clothes and jewelry, the other in furniture, with some old clothes and books sprinkled in. I decided to go into the latter.
First, I found a new, sealed puzzle for 4 euros. I knew I could easily flip it for 12 to 15 euros.
Since nothing else caught my eye, I glanced over the books and that is when I saw them. Three heavy, thick, hardcover books about football, sitting quietly on the shelf.
I know nothing about football, yet something about them whispered, pick these. I had noticed men obsessing over football shirts, football memorabilia, football this and that in TikTok, so I thought maybe this could be a good find. I picked them up for 6 euros and uploaded a photo to AI, asking how I had done. I was genuinely surprised by the response.
The Books and Their Potential Value
The Mixer: The Story of Premier League Tactics, from Route One to False Nines – Michael Cox
Potential resale value: 25 to 40 euros
This book is highly sought after by fans of Premier League tactics, younger football nerds, and collectors. Hardcover editions in English can command the higher end of that range if in good condition. Its value is boosted by the ongoing popularity of tactical analysis in football media.
Sir Bobby Charlton: The Autobiography (My Manchester United Years) – Sir Bobby Charlton
Potential resale value: 20 to 35 euros
As a prestige autobiography of a global football legend, this holds steady demand. Hardcover editions in English are especially collectible among Manchester United fans worldwide. Condition matters. Near-mint copies with dust jackets fetch the top prices.
England Managers: The Toughest Job in Football – Brian Glanville
Potential resale value: 15 to 30 euros
This book is a bit more niche, appealing to serious football history enthusiasts and England fans. Hardcover editions in English can still attract collectors, especially because Glanville is considered a respected authority in football journalism. Well-kept copies could sell closer to 30 euros.
Closing Thoughts
I was genuinely shocked. I did not expect the value of these books to be that high. Somehow, when I look at an item, especially in a charity shop, I just know if it has value. I do not know how I do it, but it feels like a real blessing.
As I start building my professional reselling in the coming months, I hope this ability carries over when I am hitting charity shops and flea markets almost daily.
For now, I will list these books on eBay and Vinted and see if any football fan snaps them up.
I did not do any prior research. I just thought they looked interesting, and that was enough. Right now, I feel genuinely happy. Money well spent.