Collecting McDonald’s toys may seem like a harmless pastime, but for some, it’s a serious business that can yield surprisingly high returns. With vintage toys skyrocketing in value, now is the time to check those old Happy Meal boxes. You might be sitting on a fortune without even knowing it.
This list is based on real-world data, including market trends, auction results, and expert insights. No made-up statistics or exaggerated claims. Read on to discover the top 11 McDonald’s toys that have become shockingly valuable over time, and learn why they’re worth keeping an eye out for.
1. Underwater Monsters (1979)
Released in 1979, the Underwater Monsters were among the earliest Happy Meal toys. Despite their simple designs and lack of branding, these toys have become highly sought-after collectibles due to their age and rarity. Many people may have overlooked them as they don’t bear the recognizable characters of later promotions.
The market for vintage McDonald’s toys is booming, and these early examples are becoming increasingly valuable. See current pricing via eBay listings.
2. Diener Keshi Figures (1980)
The Diener Keshi Figures from 1980, featuring characters like robots, dinosaurs, and aliens, are another set of early McDonald’s toys gaining value. Unlike many later releases, these toys were not tied to any film or TV show, which might have led many to disregard them.
However, their increasing age and the nostalgia that they evoke make them highly desirable to collectors today. Check recent prices on eBay.
3. Changeables (1987)
The Changeables, also known as McRobots, were released in 1987 and transformed from everyday McDonald’s food items into robots. This unique concept captured the imagination of many children, making these toys popular keepsakes.
The current trend for retro toys and the increasing scarcity of these items have seen their value soar. Browse active eBay listings.
4. Happy Meal Box (1979)
The original Happy Meal box from 1979, complete with the circus wagon design, has become a collector’s item in its own right. Most individuals likely discarded these boxes without a second thought, making surviving examples rare and valuable.
The market for vintage fast-food memorabilia is thriving. Read background and see examples on Collectors Weekly.
5. 101 Dalmatians Complete Set (1996)
In 1996, McDonald’s released a massive collection of 101 different Dalmatians toys. While many people collected a handful of these toys, completing the entire set was a daunting task that few undertook.
Today, a complete set is a rare find. See what they’re going for via eBay listings.
6. Potato Head Kids (1987)
McDonald’s released a set of Potato Head Kids toys in 1987. These charming little figures might not have seemed like much at the time, but their connection to the classic Mr. Potato Head brand has made them desirable to collectors.
See recent asking prices on eBay.
7. Disney Masterpiece Collection (1995)
The Disney Masterpiece Collection, released in 1995, featured figures from classic Disney movies. Many people kept these toys due to their ties to beloved films, making them some of the most recognizable McDonald’s toys.
For availability and pricing, check current eBay listings.
8. McNugget Buddies (1988)
McNugget Buddies, released in 1988, were anthropomorphized chicken nuggets with different costumes and personalities. While they may seem quirky, their unique design and nostalgia factor have made them popular among collectors.
Track market activity with eBay listings.
9. Power Rangers (1994)
In 1994, McDonald’s released a set of Power Rangers toys. These toys are tied to one of the most popular children’s TV shows of the 90s, making them a hot commodity among collectors.
See what sets and figures are listed now on eBay.
10. Ty Beanie Babies (1997)
Perhaps the most famous of all McDonald’s toys are the Ty Beanie Babies released in 1997. At the height of the Beanie Baby craze, these toys were highly sought after, and many people kept them in hopes they would increase in value.
A survey of eBay listings shows that certain figures, especially those still in their original packaging, can fetch high prices.
11. Furby (1998)
The Furby toys released by McDonald’s in 1998 capitalized on the Furby craze of the late 90s. These miniature versions of the popular electronic toy were an instant hit and have since become sought-after collectibles.
See active eBay listings for recent pricing and availability.