Who knew that playing with toys could be such a profitable pastime? It’s true, some of our beloved childhood playthings are now coveted collectibles, fetching high prices on the secondary market.
Whether you’re a nostalgic collector or a savvy reseller, these 14 retro toys are worth keeping an eye out for. They not only bring back fond memories of simpler times, but they can also prove to be a worthwhile investment.
So, let’s journey back in time and revisit these cherished classics that have managed to capture the hearts and wallets of collectors around the globe.
1. The Original 1959 Barbie Doll
Barbie, the iconic fashion doll, made her debut in 1959, and she has been a beloved part of many childhoods ever since. If you were lucky enough to keep your original Barbie in pristine condition, you could be sitting on a gold mine.
These dolls are highly sought after by collectors, particularly if they come with their original clothing and accessories. According to the University of Wisconsin’s Minds@UW repository, a 1959 Barbie in mint condition can resell for thousands of dollars.
2. 1978 Luke Skywalker Action Figure
The Star Wars franchise has a massive and dedicated fan base, many of whom are willing to pay top dollar for vintage merchandise.
The 1978 Luke Skywalker action figure, complete with a telescoping lightsaber, is one of the rarest and most valuable Star Wars toys. With Star Wars’ enduring popularity, this figure is a must-have for any serious collector.
3. 1972 Nerf Ball
Who could forget the fun of playing with a Nerf ball? The original Nerf ball, introduced in 1972, was an instant hit, and vintage models are now highly sought after. If your old Nerf ball is still in good condition, you might be surprised at what it’s worth. As noted on WealthGang, an original Nerf ball can fetch a pretty penny on the secondary market.
4. 1980’s Transformers Optimus Prime
The Transformers toys were all the rage in the 1980s, and the Optimus Prime figure was the crown jewel of many a child’s collection. The original Optimus Prime toy, especially if it’s in good condition and still in its original packaging, can fetch a substantial sum on the resale market. Transformers fans and collectors alike are always on the lookout for this iconic figure.
5. Original Gameboy from 1989
Before the days of smartphones and tablets, there was the Gameboy. This handheld gaming device was a game-changer (pun intended) when it was released in 1989. Today, original Gameboys in good condition are highly coveted by collectors and can command a high resale price. So if you’ve got one gathering dust in your attic, it might be time to cash in.
6. 1952 Mr. Potato Head
Mr. Potato Head, the lovable toy that allowed kids to create their own potato characters, has been a staple in children’s toy boxes since 1952. Original Mr. Potato Head toys, especially those still in their original packaging, are highly sought after by collectors. According to the Our Vintage Bungalow blog, a vintage Mr. Potato Head can fetch a hefty price on the resale market.
7. Tamagotchi Virtual Pets from 1996
The Tamagotchi virtual pet was the ultimate ’90s toy. These pocket-sized digital pets required feeding, cleaning, and attention, teaching kids responsibility in a fun and interactive way. Today, original Tamagotchis in good condition can sell for a surprising amount, particularly if they come with their original packaging.
8. 1964 GI Joe Action Figures
GI Joe, the original action figure, has been a favorite among kids and collectors since its debut in 1964. The value of these figures can vary greatly depending on their condition and rarity, but some of the rarer figures have been known to sell for hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.
9. 1980’s Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls
Remember the Cabbage Patch Kids craze of the ’80s? These adorable dolls, each with its own unique name and birth certificate, were must-have toys for many children. Today, vintage Cabbage Patch Kids dolls, especially those still in their original boxes, can command a high price on the resale market.
10. 1968 Hot Wheels Cars
Hot Wheels cars, with their cool designs and speedy performance, have been a hit with kids and collectors alike since they first hit the market in 1968. Vintage Hot Wheels cars, particularly rare models or those still in their original packaging, can be worth a surprising amount. So if you’ve got a stash of old Hot Wheels in your basement, it might be worth taking a second look.
11. 1983 Care Bears Plush Toy
The Care Bears, with their bright colors and caring messages, were a childhood staple for many ’80s kids. These cuddly plush toys can now fetch a decent price on the secondary market, particularly if they’re in good condition and still have their original tags. So if you’ve still got your old Care Bear stashed away somewhere, it might be time to dig it out.
12. 1979 Atari Video Computer System
The Atari Video Computer System, introduced in 1979, was a game-changer in the world of video games. Today, vintage Atari systems are highly sought after by collectors, particularly if they come with their original packaging and games. If you’ve got one of these lying around, it could be worth a fair bit.
13. 1998 Furby Interactive Toy
Furbies, the interactive toys that could learn and respond to their owners, were a must-have toy in the late ’90s. Today, original Furbies in good condition can fetch a surprising sum on the secondary market, particularly if they’re still in their original packaging. So if you’ve got a Furby tucked away somewhere, it might be worth dusting it off.
14. 1990’s Polly Pocket Playsets
Polly Pocket playsets, with their tiny dolls and intricate details, were a hit with ’90s kids. Today, these playsets are highly sought after by collectors, particularly if they’re in good condition and come with their original dolls and accessories. If you’ve still got your old Polly Pocket stash, it might be time to see what it’s worth.
So there you have it – 14 retro toys that are worth a fortune today. Whether you’re a collector, a reseller, or just someone who loves a good nostalgia trip, these toys are a testament to the enduring appeal of our childhood favorites. Happy collecting!