As much as we love toys and value them when we are kids, some of us could only hope to continue to love them after we've grown up. Because, no matter how many new toys we receive, nothing can ever replace the ones we loved as kids, besides maybe a good amount of money? Little did we know back then, that those old toys we just happened to buy with just a dollar, would be worth great amounts of money someday. Time for some treasure hunting! Here are some items from the past that are now worth a lot of money.
1978 Luke Skywalker Action Figure
With the massive fan base since the first release of the movie, many people are quick to collect all Star Wars memorabilia.
However, as time passes by, even though high-tech action figures and lightsabers have been released, many Star Wars fans are still searching for the very first release of Star Wars toys. Thus, when one collector had heard of the existence of the 1978 edition of Luke Skywalker Action Figure, he quickly bought it for $25,000.
Garbage Pail Kids Cards
You are in luck if you are still in possession of one of these cards today. These Garbage Pail Kids Cards are now worth a fair amount, depending on their condition, production date, and the specific character featured on the card.
Someone was able to sell a card for $300 and one man even received a total of $4,000 for the complete 1985 Garbage Pail Kids Series One. This was all made possible thanks to eBay!
"Gotta Catch 'em All” Pokemon Cards
In 1996, the very first cards were introduced to kids and we can only remember the hype back then. Featuring every Pokemon under the (animated) sun, these cards were sought after by almost everyone, especially if it was considered "rare".
If you are one of those kids who had the chance to purchase these entertaining cards, this is your time to shine! Based on its condition and rarity, its value can be in the thousands of dollars.
Wonder Woman Action Figure
Notice something odd about this figure of everyone's favorite super-heroine? Well, as it turns out, she is not really supposed to be there, and that's exactly what made this specific action figure so valuable.
Someone's attention must have wandered off elsewhere, since this package was originally supposed to host the caped crusader himself, but ended up being the home of DC comic's first lady. The unique mistake actually caused the figure to be auctioned off for no less than $2000.
Mary-Kate and Ashley Dolls
The Olson twins have been a household name for about four decades now, their career starting practically from the moment they were born. From TV shows to movies to an actual animated series, Mary Kate and Ashley were true idols for children and pre-teens.
That would come as no surprise then that during the height of their likeness was also molded into plastic form, and these slightly unsettling dolls are worth more than $200 today. We wonder what they this about it.
Tamagotchi
If you were on your way home from school in the mid to late 90s and you saw a friend sprinting home like the devil himself was after them- chances are they were rushing to save Tamagochi.
The popular Japanese toy had to be taken care of like a real, living creature, and if you missed feeding it or simply didn't give it enough love and attention, it would die. Now that's what we call hight stakes! Today prices for this device can vary, but it's still incredibly popular.
The Irresistible ‘80s PEZ Dispensers
It was 1952 when PEZ was first introduced in America, however, due to its strong peppermint taste; they had to come up with a great marketing technique.
And they were successful with it, the new dispensers were made with different shapes, flavors, and cartoon character heads. And this very first release was every collectible's dream. Recently, a 1982 Astronaut B PEZ Dispenser was sold on eBay for $32,000. Indeed, it was old, but gold.
The Game of All Time, Game Boy
There might be a lot of new games being introduced nowadays, but nothing can beat the wonders of the exceptional Game Boy. You might want to check your very own console, (if you have one) because if you think no one needs it anymore, you are terribly wrong.
Collectors are willing to spend a lot of money for the mint edition Game Boys. For the special edition ones, you can surely receive thousands of dollars.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 1980s Action Figures
After the popularity of the comic books and television series, its action figures were quickly found in the market. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Action Figures were released by Playmates Toy in 1988.
And now, if you have the mint-condition action figures, expect to receive a minimum of $600 per figure. If you are lucky enough to found a rarer one in your treasure chest, you can expect to receive an awesome sum of $5,000.
Vintage Super Soaker Gun Is on Fire Again
No one can argue that water guns are one of the all-time favorite toys on earth. The original and vintage Super Soaker Gun was first introduced by engineer Lonnie Johnson in 1982.
There are many low-class imitations you can find today at a very cheap price. However, if you are looking for an authentic one for your collection, you better prepare to pay up to a thousand dollars.
Furby, the Hamster Owl
The people behind this wonderful creation spent a total of nine months just to come up with its cute image. It was introduced by Dave Hampton and Caleb Chung in 1998 at the American International Toy Fair.
However, it’s not only the kids who fell in love with this little creature, even kids at heart are totally captivated with its charming big eyes, the main reason that collectors nowadays also do not want to miss having this fluffy bird. If you have an unopened box, expect to earn up to $900.
The Real Talkboy
The Talkboys, however, were only made as nothing more than a prop for the movie in 1992. It was built for the main character, Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin.
Due to huge public demand, Tiger Electronics manufactured real portable variable-speed cassette players in the shape of the Talkboys used in the movie. And yes, if you still have one in your home today, you can be expecting to receive $200 in your pockets.
Cute and Curly Cabbage Patch Dolls
The cute and curly Cabbage Patch Dolls' popularity even produced third-party products such as board games and a lot more. No doubt it was one of the most iconic collector’s items today. As of now, Pat and Joe Prosey hold the most expensive Cabbage Patch Dolls collection. They have built a Maryland museum especially for their 5,000 dolls, which cost $360,000 in total.
Fisher-Price Push Cart Pete
The Fisher-Price Push Cart Pete was released in 1936 and collectors could only hope that their parents saved one for them because they are worth a lot today. If you think that your parents’ toy is still in good condition, it's time to let it go. The Fisher-Price Push Cart Pete from 1936-1937 now costs a jaw-dropping amount of $3,000.
The Authentic First Edition Pound Puppies Plush
The very first Pound Puppies Plush was invented by Michael Bowling in 1984 and the Tonka Company. Today, if you plan to purchase an authentic one for your kid, good luck to you.
If you have a first edition Pound Puppy in your storage room or treasure box, you can expect to receive a hefty sum in exchange. It actually has a value of $5,000.
Burning Hot Wheels
However, no matter how many hot wheels cars there may exist today, only a few of them hold value. Some hot wheels were only made as prototypes and that’s why they are much more important. For example, if you have the “Volkswagen Beach Bomb” prototype released in 1969, you can surely expect a $125,000 in your pockets.
The1982 Iconic Skeletor Action Figure
Earning the title of “Lord of Destruction”, many people loved this character and collectors are dying to have one of these Master of the Universe action figures. If you happen to have one, you could land up selling it for almost $2000 on the internet.
Light up Your Wallets With Lite Brite
Lite Brite was released by Hasbro in 1967. To attract more kids, Hasbro used different cartoon characters' images, such as Mr. Potato Head, My Little Pony, Darth Vader, and Scooby-Doo. If you have one in your old treasure box, you might want to sell it online. If you ask your parents how much they paid for it back in the day, they will most probably answer you with $20. Not bad if you resell it today, since you can get a good price of $100 today.
McDonald’s Happy Meal Toys to Make You Happier
You should have definitely saved and taken good care of all those. The toys which came in different themes became certain collector’s items. The free toys from McDonald’s can now be sold for around $300.
Mario Cart 64 Racing Through the Prices
Every '90s kid surely still misses Super Mario. But if you needed a huge amount of money in an instant and you remember playing this game back in the days, your attic is absolutely worth a check. The Mario Cart 64 in mint-condition can be sold nowadays at $750.
Sega Genesis Console
If you think you have one in your attic, you better try it. If it’s still working then thousands of dollars surely await you. Do not dare throw it away, if you do, you just literally let $2,000 dollars slip out of your hands!
Cutie and Expensive Beanie Babies
Being the very first Internet sensation in 1995, you can look forward to a great sum of money if you still have one of these guys. The rarer the plush you have, the more money you can get for it. According to some, a sum of $12,000 is a sure jackpot for a box-closed 1997 1st Edition Beanie Bear Princess Diana.
Fun and Exciting Lionel’s Pennsylvania “Trail Blazer” Train Set
This is definitely your lucky day if you have found this in your attic because you are really in for a big amount of money. Toy collectors are very willing to spend up to $250,000 for this toy. Easy money!
Vinyl Caped Jawa’s
Yes, it’s not only Luke Skywalker who was well-loved by many. Another Star Wars character in the persona of Jawa wanted to prove its real value. The very first Jawa action figure was introduced on the toy shelves in 1978. Its cape was truly made of vinyl like Darth Vader and Obi-wan Kenobi’s capes. If you remembered playing with one of these Vinyl Caped Jawas as a child, you should definitely search for it now. Its rarity will automatically reward you with a minimum of $5,000.
Transformers to Literally Transform Your Wallet
Surely, millions of kids around the world were able to purchase one of these transformers' action figures. You are just very lucky if you still happened to have yours because it now costs around $2000.
Jurassic Park Figures Roars With Price
What made the most impact was the second release, which included a jungle background. If you happen to remember one of them from your childhood, pray that it's still in your attic or storage room because it’s worth $1,200 today.
Stretch Armstrong Stretches up to Thousands of Dollars
Hasbro announced in the 2016 New York Toy Fair that they will produce the very first design of Stretch Armstrong again. That was great news for everyone but toy collectors can't seem to get enough of the authentic one. Some reports said that the vintage Stretch Armstrong doll was sold for $10,000 in an auction!
G. I. Joe Circa 1964 Is Still in Action
As you know, the G.I Joe toys were meant to represent the Action Marine (Marine Corps), Action Pilot (Air Force), Action Sailor (U.S. Navy), Action Soldier (U.S. Army) and later on followed by the Action Nurse. The toy evolved over the years and of course, every toy collector wants the very first version. And for your information, it can cost up to $10,000.
Famous Hundred Dollar Original Monopoly
If you have an authentic version of the game from the early 1900s, you are guaranteed to receive a great sum of money. In 2015, the authentic hand-drawn Monopoly, created by Charles Darrow himself in 1933, was sold for $146,500. If I were you, I would spend some time in the attic searching for this treasure!
Playmobil Adventures up Until Today
The toy allows a kid to create a scene with the parts given in the box and start their own adventure. Some kids even love to use their other toys to come up with an original plot. If you want to find one of these sets today for your kids, you need a little more than $800.
The Very First Edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
The book quickly gained momentous value in the book market and was considered a collectible within just a few years after its release. Every Harry Potter fan would not hesitate to buy the first edition no matter how much it costs. And just a little heads up, the first edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is now priced in the market at $6,500.
Barbie Girl in a Barbie World
Because of its worldwide popularity, collectors know how precious the first versions of these toys are. For them, hearing that the authentic Barbie dolls cost a little more than $23,000 is just a normal thing. A person who would be willing to spend that much must really love Barbie.
This Is How Much Your Old Star Wars Toys Are Worth
In 1977 the world was introduced to a new phenomenon: the Star Wars Universe. Since its beginning with the surprisingly legendary A New Hope, the Star Wars franchise continues to grow and influence the world. This influence has stretched beyond the movie theaters, and into toy stores. With fans craving anything from a galaxy far, far away, all the Star Wars merchandise can be a little overwhelming, so we made it simple for you by compiling a list of every collectable worth investing in.
Want to make money with these valuable collectables or buy them at auction? Check out all the Star Wars awesomeness bellow.
I Love New York Yoda
Up to $450
Though parents might be relieved, kids today don't have the opportunity to go running in the aisles of Toys 'R' US and start playing with their favorite toys. At the height of its power, the mega chain used its Time Square location to have different promotional events, such as the release of the Lego X-Wing. The first 1,000 lucky people in line at this event were given a little extra...
Though parents might be relieved, kids today don't have the opportunity to go running in the aisles of Toys 'R' US and start playing with their favorite toys. At the height of its power, the mega chain used its Time Square location to have different promotional events, such as the release of the Lego X-Wing. The first 1,000 lucky people in line at this event were given a little extra...
This Lego Yoda shows just how much of a tourist he is as he pulls of the classic "I Love New York" shirt. If you managed to get your hands on one of these little guys and can manage to part ways with it, you can turn up a nice little profit.
Death Star Playset
Up to $500
Some people have castles, others have dollhouses. Star Wars fans have the Death Star. With this playset, kids were free to place their action figures (sold separately) to reenact scenes from the movie, or make up their own interstellar adventures. Since many countries saw the production of the big set as too costly, it did not make it into the overseas market.
Some people have castles, others have dollhouses. Star Wars fans have the Death Star. With this playset, kids were free to place their action figures (sold separately) to reenact scenes from the movie, or make up their own interstellar adventures. Since many countries saw the production of the big set as too costly, it did not make it into the overseas market.
In 1978, the Kenner company put out the set and stayed true to the story of the movie, from the Storm Trooper controlled gun turret, to Luke and Leia's hole to swing across, all the way to the infamous trash compactor. A high-quality conditioned set still in the box could be worth a pretty penny.
Blue Snaggletooth
Up to $700
You would think that if Kenner were to name a toy "Blue Snaggletooth" they would make up for the unappealing name with the coolest looking figure around (aside from Han Solo of course). Unfortunatly, this figure fits the bill of what a snaggletooth looks likes.
You would think that if Kenner were to name a toy "Blue Snaggletooth" they would make up for the unappealing name with the coolest looking figure around (aside from Han Solo of course). Unfortunatly, this figure fits the bill of what a snaggletooth looks likes.
On the upside, you can test your fellow Star Wars fans with this character. If they can remember his few seconds of screentime when Luke entered the Cantina in A New Hope, then they are true fans. Also known as Zutton or Z-Tron, Kenner thought that this weird looking alien would be popular on kids' wish lists. Today though, a new figure still in the box can show it's worth a decent price at auction.
Large(ish) R2-D2
Up to $725
Though it might not be the "real" size for those uber-fans out there, this 8-inch radio-controlled R2-D2 was the perfect toy for kids back in the day. Able to move in 4 directions and requiring two nine volt batteries, this model was the perfect height for a child.
Though it might not be the "real" size for those uber-fans out there, this 8-inch radio-controlled R2-D2 was the perfect toy for kids back in the day. Able to move in 4 directions and requiring two nine volt batteries, this model was the perfect height for a child.
It is rare to find this collectable on the market today, even more so one that is in good condition. Yet, if you happen to find yours in the parents' attic on day in spring cleaning, you can make a $700 profit since the time you bought it.
Princess Leia
Up to $800
It may not be her golden bikini, but this Leia's outfit is undoubtedly recognizable by even those who haven't seen the movies. The classic cinnamon roll space bun hairdo adds to the white dress and hood in Kenner's original 1978 Star Wars line. With an initial price of $2.27, there was no reason not to by one.
It may not be her golden bikini, but this Leia's outfit is undoubtedly recognizable by even those who haven't seen the movies. The classic cinnamon roll space bun hairdo adds to the white dress and hood in Kenner's original 1978 Star Wars line. With an initial price of $2.27, there was no reason not to by one.
In addition to Kenner's famous vinyl cape, this figure comes with everything you've seen in A New Hope, including Leia's blaster. Yet, with their limited fashion abilities, Leia's white dress is now turned into a pantsuit, which his way more practical when she's firing at Storm Troopers. It is therefore surprising that this was Kenner's cheapest entry from the lineup.
Han Solo (Big Head)
Up to $1,000
Lets be honest. If you had to have one Star Wars action figure, who would it be? There is no doubt a certain nerf herder comes to everyone's mind. Not only is Han Solo one of the most beloved characters in film history, but Harrison Ford's portrayal of him is so iconic that Kenner sought to capture his look in their merchandise.
Lets be honest. If you had to have one Star Wars action figure, who would it be? There is no doubt a certain nerf herder comes to everyone's mind. Not only is Han Solo one of the most beloved characters in film history, but Harrison Ford's portrayal of him is so iconic that Kenner sought to capture his look in their merchandise.
The "Big Head Han Solo," which sold for $2.49 back in the day, was made with the intent of looking as close to Harrison Solo as possible. With such a big resemblance, this small collectable holds it's own against the man himself.
TIE Interceptor
Up to $2,000
As formidable as the TIE Fighter proved to be in it's inception, the Empire was in need of some upgrades by the time Return of the Jedi rolled around. Along with a new Death Star, the TIE Interceptor was their new big higher vehicle. Built with more speed and firepower than it's predecessor, it is no wonder this piece is so valuable among collectors.
As formidable as the TIE Fighter proved to be in it's inception, the Empire was in need of some upgrades by the time Return of the Jedi rolled around. Along with a new Death Star, the TIE Interceptor was their new big higher vehicle. Built with more speed and firepower than it's predecessor, it is no wonder this piece is so valuable among collectors.
To add to it's value, this piece has more of an international presence than most. When it first was released in 1988, it was only available for retail in Brazil. One would think that the box writing would be in Portuguese then. This linguistic paradox entices collectors to bid even higher for it.
The Empire Strikes Back Six Pack
Up to $2,100
What do Darth Vader, a Stromtrooper, an AT-AT pilot, IG-88, a rebel soldier and Yoda have in common? All of them can get you big bucks. In this pre-assembled collection, Kenner gave you a host of characters from The Empire Strikes Back, with a vinyl cape for Darth Vader that will surely make the kids feel the evil.
What do Darth Vader, a Stromtrooper, an AT-AT pilot, IG-88, a rebel soldier and Yoda have in common? All of them can get you big bucks. In this pre-assembled collection, Kenner gave you a host of characters from The Empire Strikes Back, with a vinyl cape for Darth Vader that will surely make the kids feel the evil.
Though not all of these characters may be the main protagonists of the film, they are all super fun side characters to collect and play with. With Yoda and Vader leading the charge, and the rarely seen AT-AT pilot, this set is sure to make an impression in your wallet.
Holographic Darth Maul
Up to $2,500
Now that we know it wasn't a state secret people expected Star Wars to fail, it should come as no surprise that toy makers weren't lining up to create line that they felt wasn't going to make them any money. It is precisely because the film was expected to fail that the toys have become so rare, and hence so valuable.
Now that we know it wasn't a state secret people expected Star Wars to fail, it should come as no surprise that toy makers weren't lining up to create line that they felt wasn't going to make them any money. It is precisely because the film was expected to fail that the toys have become so rare, and hence so valuable.
Funko Pop's Holographic Darth Maul capitalized on that value. Made exclusively for the San Diego Comic Con in 2012, this rare design following the bobblehead craze is valuable because of it's scarcity and because for some reason people love to collect Funko Pop figures.
Yak Face
Up to $2,500
This design should urge you to applaud the toy makers that put it. Someone has to have big cojones to sell this awkward looking Yak Face to children. With an ugly physical appeal and a kicker name to boot, it is no wonder this collectable was shunned to the toy isles of Europe and Canada. Shunned as he was though, the Yak Face came back with a vengeance.
This design should urge you to applaud the toy makers that put it. Someone has to have big cojones to sell this awkward looking Yak Face to children. With an ugly physical appeal and a kicker name to boot, it is no wonder this collectable was shunned to the toy isles of Europe and Canada. Shunned as he was though, the Yak Face came back with a vengeance.
Right before Kenner canceled their line of Star Wars collectibles in the 80's, the Yak Face was featured. Representing the memory of such times, the Yak Face's eBay success has blown past anyone's expectations, as many bidders feel the uncontrollable need to buy when they see it on the market.
Lambda Shuttle Set
Up to $2,500
You know how a kid walks into a toy store, picks out a toy he loves and screams until his parents reluctantly agrees to cough up the bucks? Well, in the case of the Lambda Shuttle Lego Set, many parents were probably even more so reluctant to pay for its lofty retail price. Today, though, they might be thinking it was a good choice.
You know how a kid walks into a toy store, picks out a toy he loves and screams until his parents reluctantly agrees to cough up the bucks? Well, in the case of the Lambda Shuttle Lego Set, many parents were probably even more so reluctant to pay for its lofty retail price. Today, though, they might be thinking it was a good choice.
Lego toys are generally meant to be assembled, and therefore the value of this set is determined whether or not each piece is in its original plastic bag. The most impressive part of this set, though, are the figures it comes with. With Luke, Darth Vader, a Storm Trooper and two Imperial officers, there is plenty of action to imagine.
LEGO George Lucas
Up to $2,500
Lego sets follow the opposite of conventional investing trends. A completed set is worth less than the pieces. Smaller figures many times are worth more than big constructions. Interestingly enough, the side figures that come as a bonus to the sets are worth more than the sets themselves.
Lego sets follow the opposite of conventional investing trends. A completed set is worth less than the pieces. Smaller figures many times are worth more than big constructions. Interestingly enough, the side figures that come as a bonus to the sets are worth more than the sets themselves.
It doesn't take much to look like George Lucas. All you need is a white beard and a signature side parted harido. With all it's simplicity though, when Lego released the figure, only the prototype was made simply, meaning it's a gem to find out in the market.