Beyond the physical value, an heirloom requires a multi-generational dedication to family because if your a bad parent and all your kids want nothing to do with you it doesn't matter how many valuable objects you posses.
I went through this with my parents (my dad has died my mom is still around). They were nothing but caring and loving with me, giving me everything I needed and most of the the things I wanted. I owe my long career as a programmer to my mom indulging me with a TI-99/4A back in 1982.
They both wanted me to go through their homes and make a note of all the things I wanted and I never have. Unlike them, I don't really feel sentimental about most physical items. If they left me something old or valuable, I wouldn't think twice about selling it or giving it away if it isn't something I want. It should go to someone who will actually love or use the thing for what it is, not sit in a storage locker.
I have two siblings and as of a year ago, they feel the same about it all. I'm pretty sure my kids feel about the same with respect to the things I own. I do have an expensive watch that I wear everyday and I know they will sell it and I'm okay with that.
Enjoyed reading your story. Thank you for sharing. I resonated with the Calculator as sometimes it can be a single present that shapes an entire person’s life.
I think it would take a dedicated person who has a child very young so that they could influence grandchildren and potentially great grandchildren who also has an item that has some value but maybe can’t be sold for equivalent amount and that person has to build this item up like it’s magical. Yeah it would take a lifetime dedication of one person to create an heirloom so they are pretty special actually.
