In the era of streaming services and digital downloads, VHS tapes might seem obsolete. However, for some dedicated collectors and enthusiasts, these relics of the past are priceless. Especially when it comes to children’s movies, certain VHS tapes are not just nostalgic, but can also be worth a pretty penny.
If you grew up in the 80s or 90s and have kept your VHS collection intact, you might be sitting on a gold mine. Here are 12 rare kids’ VHS tapes that collectors are willing to pay top dollar for.
1. The Little Mermaid (Original Cover)
The original cover of Disney’s 1989 classic “The Little Mermaid” is one that collectors actively seek out. The original cover art was quickly replaced due to an inappropriate image snuck in by an artist. The tapes with the original cover art were only in circulation for a short time, making them extremely rare.
If you have this version of the VHS tape, you could be looking at selling it for hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. It’s definitely worth digging through your old collection to see if you’ve got this hidden gem.
2. Beauty and the Beast (Black Diamond Edition)
The “Black Diamond Edition” VHS tapes are part of Disney’s classic series released between 1984 and 1994. The “Beauty and the Beast” tape from this series is particularly sought after.
If you have a copy in good condition, it could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The reason it’s so valuable is because this version of the film includes a ‘work-in-progress’ version of the film, which was shown at the New York Film Festival before the final cut was completed.
3. Aladdin (Black Diamond Edition)
Just like the “Beauty and the Beast”, the Black Diamond Edition of “Aladdin” is another valuable piece. These tapes are distinguishable by the black diamond on the spine of the case, which says “The Classics.”
The rarity of these tapes comes from the fact that they were among the first to be released when home video was still a new concept. If you have one of these tapes, you could be holding onto something worth a significant amount of money.
4. The Fox and the Hound (Black Diamond Edition)
Another gem from the Black Diamond series, “The Fox and the Hound” VHS tape could be worth a lot of money. This heartwarming tale of friendship is a beloved classic that many collectors would love to add to their collection.
The value of this tape comes from its rarity. The Black Diamond Edition was only in circulation for a short time, making it a hot commodity among collectors. If you have one of these tapes in good condition, you might be able to sell it for a hefty sum.
5. The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Demo Tape)
Demo tapes are especially valuable to collectors. These were the tapes sent to video rental stores ahead of the film’s release to the general public. The demo tape of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is particularly rare and valuable.
If you were a video store owner or worked in a store during the 90s, you might have one of these tapes stashed away. They are easily recognizable as they have “demo tape” printed on the cover and the tape itself.
6. The Lion King (Japanese Release)
Foreign releases of popular films are often valuable, and the Japanese release of “The Lion King” is no exception. This version of the film features different cover art and is dubbed in Japanese.
If you happened to pick up a copy of this tape while overseas, or if you’re a fan of foreign films, you might be sitting on a gold mine. The rarity and unique nature of this tape make it highly sought after by collectors.
7. Cinderella (Black Diamond Edition)
Yet another Black Diamond Edition tape, “Cinderella” is another valuable piece that collectors would love to get their hands on. This beloved Disney classic is a must-have for any serious Disney VHS collector.
If you have this tape, make sure to take good care of it. Due to its rarity and the popularity of the film, it could be worth a lot of money.
8. Dumbo (Black Diamond Edition)
“Dumbo” is another sought-after Black Diamond Edition tape. This classic tale of an elephant with extraordinarily large ears is loved by many, making it a valuable piece for collectors.
If you have this tape in your collection, it could be worth a lot of money. As with all Black Diamond Edition tapes, the rarity and nostalgia associated with these tapes make them highly valuable.
9. Bambi (Black Diamond Edition)
“Bambi,” another beloved Disney classic, is a valuable addition to the Black Diamond Edition series. This tale of a young deer growing up in the forest is a favorite among many Disney fans and collectors.
If you have this tape in your collection, you could be looking at a significant payout. Like all Black Diamond Edition tapes, they are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
10. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Diamond Collection)
The Diamond Collection of Disney movies is a newer series, but still quite valuable. The “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” tape from this collection is one of the most sought after.
If you have this tape, it could be worth a significant amount. The Diamond Collection was a limited release, making these tapes quite rare and valuable to collectors.
11. Alice in Wonderland (Masterpiece Collection)
The Masterpiece Collection was another series of Disney movies released on VHS. The “Alice in Wonderland” tape from this collection is particularly rare and valuable.
If you have this tape, you could be sitting on a gold mine. The Masterpiece Collection was a limited release, making these tapes quite rare and valuable to collectors.
12. Song of the South
“Song of the South” is one of the most controversial and rare Disney movies. It has never been released on DVD or Blu-ray in the U.S, making the VHS tapes the only way to watch this movie at home.
If you have this tape, it could be worth a significant amount of money. The controversy and rarity surrounding this movie make it a hot ticket item among collectors.