Did you know that the toys you played with as a child could now be worth thousands of dollars? It’s true — those action figures, board games, and dolls that once filled your toy box or cluttered your bedroom floor have become prized collectibles among vintage toy enthusiasts. What was once simply playtime fun has now transformed into a booming market where nostalgia meets serious money.
From Star Wars figures and Barbie dolls to retro video games and limited-edition board games, many of these childhood favorites from the ’70s, ’80s, and even the early ’90s are now fetching staggering prices on auction sites. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for well-preserved items that remind them of simpler times.
So, whether you’re a lifelong collector or just someone curious about the toys of your youth, prepare to take a trip down memory lane — and find out which of your old favorites might just be worth a small fortune today.
1. Star Wars Action Figures (1978)
The popularity of Star Wars has never faded, and neither has the demand for its vintage toys. A Boba Fett action figure from 1978, still in its original packaging, sold for a staggering $27,000 in 2019. Other figures from the series can also fetch high prices depending on their rarity and condition.
2. Barbie Dolls (Vintage 1959)
The first-ever Barbie doll, released in 1959, has been known to sell for as much as $23,000. Even Barbies from the ’70s and ’80s, if kept in mint condition, can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars today.
3. Hot Wheels (Redline Era, 1968-1977)
Hot Wheels from the Redline Era (1968-1977) are highly sought after by collectors. The most valuable of these is the 1969 Pink Rear-Loading Volkswagen Beach Bomb, valued at $100,000.
4. G.I. Joe Action Figure (1964)
The original G.I. Joe action figure from 1964, complete with accessories and in perfect condition, can be worth over $10,000. Even later models from the ’70s and ’80s can fetch hefty sums.
5. Transformers: Optimus Prime (1984)
The Optimus Prime action figure from 1984, still in its original box, can be sold for upwards of $2,000. Other Transformers toys from this era are also highly coveted by collectors.
6. Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls (1983)
Cabbage Patch Kids dolls were a craze in the ’80s, and rare versions of these dolls can now sell for up to $3,000. The most valuable are those signed by creator Xavier Roberts.
7. Original Monopoly Game (1933)
An original hand-drawn version of Monopoly from 1933 sold at auction for $146,500. However, even later versions from the ’70s could be worth a few hundred dollars.
8. PEZ Dispensers (Vintage 1950s)
Rare vintage PEZ dispensers, particularly those from the 1950s and ’70s, are highly collectible. The most expensive PEZ dispenser ever sold was a Mickey Mouse Soft Head from the ’70s, which went for $7,000.
9. LEGO Sets (Vintage 1980s)
Vintage LEGO sets, particularly those still in their original packaging, can be worth a small fortune. The 1980s Castle System King’s Castle is valued at around $2,500 if unopened.
10. Strawberry Shortcake Doll (1980)
If you have a vintage Strawberry Shortcake doll from 1980 in its original box, you’re looking at a potential value of $700. Even without the box, these dolls can go for over $100.
11. Teddy Ruxpin (1985)
Teddy Ruxpin, a bear that could read stories out loud, was a hit in the mid-’80s. Today, a Teddy Ruxpin in good condition with its original packaging can sell for up to $500.
12. Original Game Boy (1989)
An original Game Boy from 1989, if kept in good condition, can be worth hundreds of dollars today. If it’s still in its original packaging, the value could be even higher.
13. Masters of the Universe Action Figures (1982)
Masters of the Universe action figures from the ’80s, especially rare ones like the He-Man and Skeletor 2-pack, can fetch up to $3,000 if they’re in good condition.
14. Care Bears (1980s)
Those cuddly Care Bears from the ’80s can be worth quite a bit today. An original Cheer Bear in good condition can sell for up to $700, while some rare variations can fetch even more.
It’s astonishing to think that the toys we once played with, and maybe even took for granted, are now worth so much. So, if you’ve got a box of old toys gathering dust in the attic, it might be worth taking a look. You never know, you could be sitting on a small fortune!