The 1980s were an iconic era for music, fashion, and especially toys. If you were a child of the ’80s, you probably remember waking up early on Saturday mornings to catch your favorite cartoons and the excitement of tearing open a new toy.
What if we told you that some of those beloved toys you played with might now be worth thousands of dollars? Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and explore 13 toys from the ’80s that might just make you a small fortune.
1. Optimus Prime Action Figure
The Transformers series was a massive hit in the 1980s. The Autobots leader, Optimus Prime, was every kid’s favorite, and a mint-condition Optimus Prime action figure can sell for a hefty sum. Some of these have been sold for as much as $12,000, especially if they’re still in the original box. So if you have an old Optimus Prime figure lying around in your attic or basement, it might be time to dust it off and see if it’s worth something.
2. Teddy Ruxpin
Teddy Ruxpin was a unique toy in the ’80s. It was an animatronic teddy bear that would read stories out loud when a cassette tape was inserted in its back. Teddy Ruxpin became a must-have toy, and it’s now a highly sought-after collector’s item. In pristine condition, a Teddy Ruxpin can fetch anywhere from $500 to $1,000 but a special edition could even go for up to $10,000.
3. Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls
Cabbage Patch Kids were so popular in the ’80s that parents literally rioted in stores during the holiday season to try to get one for their kids. These beloved dolls were each unique and came with adoption papers. Today, a rare, boxed, and untouched Cabbage Patch Kid can sell for thousands of dollars. The highest price ever paid for one was a whopping $20,000.
4. Masters of the Universe Action Figures
He-Man and his friends from the Masters of the Universe were big in the ’80s. In particular, the Skeletor action figure is highly valuable and can fetch up to $2,000 in mint condition. Other figures from the series, like He-Man himself, are also worth a pretty penny.
5. NES Console
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was the must-have video game console in the ’80s. Nostalgic collectors are willing to pay big money for an NES in good condition, especially if it’s in its original box. Prices can range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the condition and what games are included.
6. My Little Pony
My Little Pony toys were a hit with girls in the ’80s. These cute, colorful ponies came in a variety of styles, and some of the rarer ones can sell for over $1,000 today. It’s worth checking your old collection; you might have a valuable pony without even knowing it.
7. G.I. Joe Action Figures
G.I. Joe was a popular action figure line in the ’80s. Certain figures, especially those still in their original packaging, can sell for thousands. A rare G.I. Joe Mobile Command Center has even been sold for nearly $10,000.
8. Garbage Pail Kids Cards
Garbage Pail Kids cards were a funny, gross-out reaction to the sweet Cabbage Patch Kids dolls. These trading cards have become collector’s items and can sell for a surprising amount. Some individual cards have been sold for over $1,000.
9. Strawberry Shortcake Dolls
Strawberry Shortcake was another popular doll line in the ’80s. Today, these dolls can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, especially if they’re still in their original boxes. The most valuable Strawberry Shortcake doll ever sold went for $1,500.
10. Barbie Dolls
Barbie has been popular for decades, but certain dolls from the ’80s are especially valuable. Some limited edition Barbies from this era can sell for thousands of dollars. The most expensive Barbie ever sold was a 1980s Pink Jubilee Barbie, which fetched $3,000.
11. Voltron Defender of the Universe
Voltron was a popular animated series in the ’80s, and the tie-in toys were just as popular. Today, a complete set of Voltron action figures can sell for up to $3,500, especially if they’re still in their original boxes.
12. Care Bears
Care Bears were a popular plush toy in the ’80s, and they’re still beloved today. Some of the rarer Care Bears can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. A mint condition Care Bear Cousins Brave Heart Lion recently sold for $1,000.
13. Star Wars Action Figures
Star Wars has been a cultural phenomenon for decades, and the ’80s was no exception. Certain Star Wars action figures from this era can sell for a significant amount. A Boba Fett action figure from 1980 has even been sold for $32,000.
