Exploring the Fascinating World of NOS: New Old Stock Explained

When it comes to vintage collections and items, New Old Stock (NOS) is the ultimate prize. NOS, or old stock, refers to products that were never sold to a customer and remain in their original packaging. These items may not be manufactured anymore, and NOS merchandise represents the only current source of a particular item.

It’s difficult to specify a definitive time frame for what qualifies as NOS. Generally speaking, it's merchandise that has never been used but is no longer produced. Some people reserve an NOS label only for products that are actually discontinued and can’t be found in stores. On the other hand, enthusiasts are known to call items “New Old Stock” more loosely, sometimes even if they’ve been around for just a few years.

Related to NOS is the concept of mint condition. Mint condition is used to describe a pre-owned item as appearing essentially unused and being in pristine condition relative to its original production state. It implies that a product either shows no signs of age and/or wear, or that any imperfections are minor compared to its overall condition. It must have nearly all of its original components to be considered truly in mint condition.

Since NOS items may no longer be produced and start to increase in value over time, collectors, museums, and galleries put a premium on New Old Stock items. After all, with such items, history is literally in the bag.

For these reasons, we love NOS. They represent a unique chance to acquire an item that some may consider unattainable or no longer made.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.