Toys are an important part of childhood, often evoking cherished memories of simpler times. However, many vintage toys that once seemed commonplace are now worth a small fortune. The rise of nostalgia and collectible markets has made these old playthings highly sought-after, especially when in pristine condition. Whether they were limited editions, part of a popular franchise, or simply ahead of their time, these vintage toys are now treasured by collectors. Here are 20 vintage toys that can fetch a significant price today.
Star Wars Action Figures
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Star Wars action figures, especially from the late 1970s and early 1980s, are highly sought after by collectors. Produced by Kenner, these toys marked the dawn of the Star Wars franchise’s massive popularity. Some of the rarest figures include Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Boba Fett, with the latter’s rocket-firing backpack version being one of the most expensive. The figures were produced in small batches and were often played with, meaning finding a mint-condition toy is a rarity. Some versions of these figures, such as the “Boba Fett” prototype, have sold for over $100,000. Collectors tend to seek out action figures still in their original packaging, and these can fetch even higher prices. For anyone who held onto their Star Wars toys from the 70s, it might be time to check if you have a fortune hidden in your attic!
Barbie Dolls
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Barbie, one of the most iconic dolls ever created, made her debut in 1959. Early models of Barbie, particularly the ones produced in the 1950s and 1960s, are considered highly valuable by collectors today. Original “Liver” Barbie dolls, which were manufactured with a particular skin tone, are among the most valuable. Other rare versions, such as the “Alexander Doll” and “Twist ‘N Turn” Barbie, also sell for substantial amounts. The condition of the doll, including the original clothes, accessories, and packaging, plays a huge role in its value. Vintage Barbie dolls can fetch thousands of dollars if they’re in pristine condition. Barbie’s history and cultural significance continue to make her a beloved collectible. If you’ve got an original 1960s Barbie in your collection, you may have a rare gem on your hands!
Hot Wheels Cars
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Hot Wheels cars are another vintage toy that has skyrocketed in value over the years. Created by Mattel in 1968, these miniature cars quickly became a favorite of children and collectors alike. Some of the most valuable Hot Wheels cars are those from the first few years of production, particularly those with unique colors or designs. The “Black Twin Mill,” for example, is considered one of the rarest and can fetch tens of thousands of dollars. Some limited edition or error versions of cars, such as those with misprints, are also highly coveted. If you still have your Hot Wheels collection from the 60s, it’s definitely worth a look!
GI Joe Action Figures
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
GI Joe, the action figure that revolutionized the toy industry, first appeared in 1964. The original 12-inch GI Joe dolls, which were aimed at older children and collectors, quickly became a favorite for their detailed outfits and accessories. Some of the rarest and most valuable GI Joe figures include “Kung-Fu Grip” versions, as well as certain military-themed dolls that were produced in limited quantities. Condition is crucial when evaluating the value of these toys, with mint-in-box dolls commanding the highest prices. Some rare pieces, especially original vehicles and playsets, can go for thousands. The demand for vintage GI Joe items continues to grow, making them an excellent investment for collectors. If you have a GI Joe action figure from the 1960s or 1970s, it might be worth more than you think!
Transformers Action Figures
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
The Transformers franchise, launched by Hasbro in 1984, quickly became a sensation with children. The original Transformers action figures, known for their ability to change from vehicles into robots, were immensely popular. Today, many of these figures, particularly the first-generation “Optimus Prime” and “Megatron” toys, are highly collectible. Certain rare variations, such as the prototype versions or figures that were produced in limited runs, can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The value of these toys is particularly high when they are still in the original packaging or have all of their accessories. Collectors continue to seek out pristine Transformers from the 1980s, ensuring their status as valuable commodities. The combination of nostalgia and the uniqueness of each figure makes these toys a staple in the collectible market.
Easy-Bake Oven
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
The Easy-Bake Oven, introduced by Hasbro in 1963, was a groundbreaking toy that allowed children to bake real miniature treats using a light bulb as the heat source. While many versions of the Easy-Bake Oven were produced over the years, the first-generation models are the most prized by collectors. Vintage Easy-Bake Ovens in their original box and with all accessories can sell for hundreds of dollars, especially if they are in pristine condition. The initial models, made of metal, are especially sought after by collectors, as later versions were made with plastic. Original ovens with the unique colors and designs from the 1960s are considered more valuable. This iconic toy’s enduring popularity and the nostalgia surrounding it ensure its place in the world of high-value vintage toys.
Legos
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Legos, the building blocks that have been a favorite for generations, were first introduced in 1949 but became a household name in the 1970s and 1980s. Certain rare sets from these decades, especially those that are no longer in production, have become valuable collectors’ items. For example, the “Legoland Castle” set from 1978 and the “Space Shuttle” set from the 1980s are both highly sought after by Lego enthusiasts. Limited edition sets, as well as discontinued themes like “Pirates” and “Knights,” can sell for a premium. The value of Legos is also tied to their condition, with sealed boxes fetching the highest prices. Some sets have been known to increase in value over time, making them a great investment. If you kept your old Lego sets from the ’70s or ’80s, you may have a treasure trove waiting to be discovered!
Teddy Bears
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Teddy bears, beloved for over a century, have seen a rise in value as vintage versions become increasingly rare. The earliest teddy bears, dating back to the early 1900s, are the most valuable. The Steiff brand, in particular, produced high-quality teddy bears that are now highly coveted by collectors. Certain models, like the “Steiff Teddy Bear with a growler,” can sell for thousands of dollars if in good condition. Bears with specific markings, such as the Steiff “Button in Ear,” are considered especially valuable. The rarity of the materials used to make early teddy bears, such as mohair and felt, adds to their appeal. If you have an antique teddy bear from the early 20th century, it could be worth far more than just sentimental value!
Rubik’s Cube
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
The Rubik’s Cube, invented in 1974, became a global sensation in the 1980s. The toy quickly turned into a puzzle-solving challenge, captivating millions of kids and adults alike. While many Rubik’s Cubes were produced, certain early versions and color variations are highly valuable today. For example, first-run Rubik’s Cubes from the 1970s, especially those in unopened boxes, can sell for hundreds of dollars. Limited edition or error cubes, such as those with misprints or unusual colors, are also prized by collectors. The Rubik’s Cube’s simple design and complexity make it a staple of retro toy collections. If you happen to have an original version from the ’70s or ’80s, it might be a valuable collectible in disguise!
View-Master
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
The View-Master, a toy that allowed children to view 3D images, was introduced in 1939 by Sawyer’s. The toy became a classic throughout the 1940s and 1950s, with various reels featuring images of everything from nature to famous landmarks. Early models of the View-Master, particularly those from the 1940s, are considered vintage treasures. Collectors often look for rare or unusual reels, which can increase the toy’s value. View-Masters from the 1960s and 1970s, especially those in pristine condition, are also valuable. The nostalgia surrounding this iconic toy continues to fuel its popularity with collectors. If you have an early View-Master and its original reels, it could be worth far more than you expect!
Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Released by Mattel in 1964, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots quickly became a popular toy. The game’s simple yet addictive concept of battling robots was a favorite among children. However, the original 1960s versions of this toy, especially the first release with its unique design, are highly valuable today. Complete sets, especially those still in the original packaging, can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The toys were popular during their time, but the limited number of early versions produced makes them rare today. The iconic red and blue robots, with their easy-to-recognize design, are treasured by collectors. If you’ve been holding onto your childhood Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, now could be the time to cash in on their worth!
Fisher Price Play Family Houses
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
The Fisher Price Play Family Houses were a favorite among children during the 1960s and 1970s. These early playsets featured a house with movable figures, vehicles, and accessories. Some of the rarest and most valuable versions of the playset are those with limited-edition designs or unique features, such as the “Play Family School” or “Play Family Fire House.” Vintage sets that are in good condition, with all parts intact, can command impressive prices. The sets were durable and designed to last, but many have been lost or worn out over the years, making intact versions especially valuable. Fisher Price toys continue to be a favorite among collectors due to their nostalgic appeal. If you have a Play Family House from the 1960s or 1970s, it could be worth a fortune!
Cabbage Patch Kids
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Cabbage Patch Kids were a massive craze in the 1980s, with millions sold in a short time. The original dolls, which came with unique faces and names, were produced by Xavier Roberts and became a cultural phenomenon. While some versions were mass-produced, there are rare Cabbage Patch Kids that are worth a significant amount of money today. The first-generation dolls, particularly those made in the early 1980s with certain facial features or clothes, are the most valuable. Condition is key—dolls that are still in their original packaging and have their birth certificates are worth the most. Some rare Cabbage Patch Kids have sold for several thousand dollars at auctions. If you have one of the original, rare dolls, you might just be sitting on a collector’s goldmine!
Pokemon Cards
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Though not technically a “toy,” Pokemon cards have become one of the most popular and valuable collectibles in recent years. Launched in the 1990s, the original Pokemon trading cards quickly became a sensation. The cards that were released in the first wave, particularly the “First Edition” holographic cards, are highly valuable. Cards such as the “Charizard” from 1999 can fetch tens of thousands of dollars if they are in mint condition. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for rare, error, or limited-edition cards, making this an excellent investment. The popularity of Pokemon continues today, which ensures the ongoing value of these collectibles. If you’ve been holding onto a childhood collection of Pokemon cards, now could be the perfect time to cash in!
Beanie Babies
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Beanie Babies, the plush toys created by Ty Inc., became a craze in the 1990s, with collectors flocking to stores to purchase the newest releases. While many Beanie Babies were produced in large numbers, there are some rare editions that can command high prices. For example, the “Princess Diana” bear, released in honor of Princess Diana’s passing, is one of the most valuable Beanie Babies. Other rare versions, such as the “Peanut the Elephant” and “Valentino the Bear,” are also worth significant amounts. The condition of these toys, particularly if they are still in their original tags and packaging, can dramatically affect their value. While some Beanie Babies might not be worth much today, the rare ones continue to fetch top prices at auctions. If you have a limited-edition Beanie Baby, it might be worth more than you realize!
Tonka Trucks
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Tonka trucks have long been the standard in durable, metal toy vehicles. Introduced in the 1950s, Tonka trucks became famous for their rugged construction and ability to withstand years of play. The older models, particularly those from the 1950s to 1970s, are highly sought after by collectors today. Models like the “Tonka Mighty Dump Truck” and “Tonka Fire Engine” are particularly valuable in good condition. Some of the rarest and most valuable trucks were produced in limited quantities or feature unique designs. Condition plays a significant role, with pristine or mint-condition toys commanding the highest prices. Tonka’s history and legacy make its toys some of the most prized items in the world of vintage toy collecting.
Matchbox Cars
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Matchbox cars, which were first introduced in 1953, became a favorite for kids who loved miniature vehicles. While Matchbox cars were mass-produced, some early models from the 1950s and 1960s are now considered highly valuable collectibles. Cars with specific features, such as rare color variations or specific wheels, can fetch impressive amounts. One example is the “Matchbox No. 1” red, which has been sold for thousands of dollars at auction. The rarity of early models combined with the nostalgia of their simple design makes them highly desirable. If you have a collection of early Matchbox cars, especially those from the 1960s, you might have a small fortune at your fingertips!
Spinning Tops
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Spinning tops were a beloved toy for many generations, dating back to the early 20th century. While the simple wooden top might seem basic, some early models, particularly those from the 1900s to the 1950s, are worth significant amounts of money today. The most valuable spinning tops are often those that were handmade or produced by specific brands. Some tops from the 1930s, like those produced by the Schylling Company, are prized by collectors. The simplicity and nostalgia surrounding these toys have kept them in demand, making rare examples highly collectible. If you find an old spinning top tucked away in your toy chest, you might just have a hidden treasure!
Yo-Yos
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Yo-Yos have been around for centuries, but the toy experienced a major boom in popularity in the mid-20th century. The yo-yos produced in the 1940s and 1950s are particularly valuable today, especially those made by companies like Duncan. The original “Duncan Butterfly” yo-yo, for example, can sell for hundreds of dollars if it’s in great condition. Other vintage yo-yos, especially those that were limited editions or unique in design, can also be worth a significant amount. Collectors often look for yo-yos with their original packaging or promotional materials. The vintage yo-yo market has grown steadily in recent years, making it a great time to dig out that old yo-yo from the past.
Furby
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW
Furby, the interactive robotic toy, was a massive craze when it was first released in the late 1990s. Despite its relatively short period of popularity, certain rare Furby models have become collectible items. The original versions, particularly those in limited colors or with unique features, can be worth a considerable amount. In particular, Furby models with special edition tags or those in original packaging are sought after by collectors. The nostalgia and technological novelty of Furby have made it a sought-after toy among retro collectors. If you’ve still got a Furby from the 1990s sitting in a box, it could be time to dust it off—it might be worth more than you remember!