Many childhood items you once overlooked might now hold surprising value. Whether packed away in boxes or tucked under your bed, these collectibles have grown in worth over time.
You could have some unexpected treasures from your past that are worth far more than you think. This article will help you recognize which childhood collectibles have gained value and why they matter today.
Original Gameboy from 1989
If you still have your original Game Boy from 1989, it could be worth more than you think. Condition matters a lot—boxed and working systems fetch the highest prices.
Used consoles without packaging usually sell for around $40 to $60. But if your Game Boy is complete with the box, it might go for $100 to $150 or more.
Collectors love this classic handheld because it started a whole new way to play. Keep it safe if you want it to hold or grow in value!
1978 Vinyl-Cape Jawa Star Wars Figure
If you have a 1978 Jawa figure with its original vinyl cape, you’re holding a rare collectible. This action figure was part of the first wave of Star Wars toys released by Kenner.
The vinyl cape makes it especially valuable compared to versions with cloth capes. Some have sold for thousands, especially if still in mint condition or carded. Keep an eye out if you spot one!
First-Generation Tamagotchi
If you have a first-generation Tamagotchi tucked away, it might be worth more than you expect. These tiny digital pets, which launched in the mid-90s, have become popular collectibles.
Depending on condition, some models sell for hundreds of dollars. Sealed or limited editions can fetch even higher prices. Keep yours safe!
Mail-Order My Little Pony Figures
If you have mail-order My Little Pony figures from the 1980s, they might be worth more than you think. These ponies were produced in limited quantities, making them rarer than regular store versions.
Collectors are often willing to pay between $100 and $2,000 for these special ponies. Condition matters a lot, so keeping yours in good shape can boost its value.
Atari 2600 Game Cartridges
If you have Atari 2600 game cartridges from your childhood, you might be sitting on a small treasure. Sealed and complete games with original boxes and manuals are worth more than loose cartridges.
Some rare titles can fetch thousands of dollars among collectors. Even common games carry nostalgic value, making them popular on sites like eBay and retro gaming forums. If you’re thinking of selling or keeping them, condition really matters.
Sealed Digimon Cards
If you still have sealed Digimon card packs from your childhood, they could be worth more than you think. Sealed packs tend to hold value better because collectors prize unopened items.
Your cards from limited edition or special event releases may attract more interest. Keep in mind, the market for Digimon cards isn’t as big as Pokémon, but rare finds can still be profitable.
Boba Fett Action Figure
If you have a vintage Boba Fett action figure, it might be more valuable than you think. A rare, hand-painted version sold for $525,000 in 2024.
This figure is one of only two known to have survived from a limited Kenner production run.
Your Boba Fett toy’s value depends on condition, but even a good one could be worth thousands today. Keep it safe!
1980s G.I. Joe Action Figures
If you have G.I. Joe figures from the 1980s, you might be sitting on a small treasure. These figures, especially ones with original accessories and packaging, can be worth hundreds of dollars.
Characters like Snake Eyes and Cobra Commander are popular among collectors. To get the best value, keep your figures in good condition and do some research before selling or buying.
Vintage Hot Wheels Cars
If you have vintage Hot Wheels cars from the late 1960s, they could be more valuable than you think. Cars with red lines on the tires are especially sought after by collectors.
Some of the earliest models, like the 1968 Redline Python, can fetch high prices depending on their condition.
Even a batch of 50 vintage cars may be worth over $100 if they are well preserved. Keep an eye on details like the year stamped on the base for clues to their value.
Early Furby Toys
If you still have an original Furby from the late 1990s, it could be more valuable than you think. These early models often sell for hundreds of dollars, especially if they’re in good condition.
Limited editions or unopened Furbys are even more sought after by collectors. The unique colors and patterns from those first generations make your Furby stand out in the market today.
Mint-Condition Pokémon Cards
If you have Pokémon cards from the late 1990s or early 2000s, especially from the Base Set, you might be sitting on something valuable. Cards like Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur can be worth more if they are in mint condition.
The key is condition. Cards graded highly by PSA or similar services sell for much higher prices. Keep your cards protected to maintain value over time.
Original Star Wars Action Figures with Weapons
If you still have original Star Wars action figures from the 1970s or 1980s, especially those with their weapons, you might be holding onto something valuable. Figures like Luke Skywalker or Boba Fett with their original accessories tend to be worth more than those without.
Condition plays a big role, so keeping the weapons attached or stored safely can increase your figure’s value. Collectors often look for complete sets with original gear, which makes your childhood toys more desirable.
Rare VHS Cassettes from the 1980s
If you still have some VHS tapes from the 1980s, you might be sitting on a small treasure. Certain rare titles, like early “Star Wars” releases or special edition movies, can fetch higher prices.
Collectors look for well-preserved tapes, so keeping your VHS in good shape boosts its value. Even tapes linked to iconic moments, like classic music concerts or popular films, catch attention from fans.
Don’t expect every tape to be valuable, but some could surprise you if they’re rare or in excellent condition.