There is a niche but passionate market for "mid-century modern" or "retro" appliances from the 1940s through the 1960s.
The most common buyers are individuals looking for functional appliances at a fraction of retail prices. This group includes: who buys old refrigerators
When a refrigerator is no longer working, its value shifts from functional to material. Scrap yards and independent metal collectors buy or pick up old units to harvest: The bulk of the frame and shelving. Copper: Found in the compressor motor and tubing. There is a niche but passionate market for
Owners of low-cost rental units often purchase used models to keep overhead low. Scrap yards and independent metal collectors buy or
Many people buy old units specifically to serve as a "garage fridge" or "beer fridge," where aesthetics matter less than cooling capacity. 2. Scrap Metal Recyclers
Specialized parts that can be sold to repair shops. 3. Vintage Enthusiasts and Restorers