We all know how tempting it can be to throw out that whole box of old toys instead of looking through everything one by one. But the thing is, some childhood playthings have now turned into very valuable collectibles, fetching impressive prices among collectors and enthusiasts. So to help you decide if there’s anything worth holding onto, let’s take a look at a few of the most valuable old toys out there.
Original Polly Pocket Sets
Those tiny, colorful Polly Pocket sets from the late ‘80s and early ‘90s may seem innocent enough, but they’re actually considered to be highly collectible today. You might be surprised to hear that complete sets in good condition, especially those with all the original figurines and accessories, can sell for hundreds of dollars.
Beanie Babies
The humble little Beanie Baby, an expensive collectible? Well, we can’t say that all Beanie Babies are valuable, but certain rare or limited-edition ones can still fetch a significant price. When you’re sorting through your toy box, look out for sought-after editions like Princess Diana, Peanut the Royal Blue Elephant, or Garcia the Bear.
First Edition Pokémon Cards
If you were a ‘90s kid, you’re more than likely to have some old original Pokémon cards lying around somewhere. And guess what? Rare holographic cards like Charizard or Mewtwo from the first edition can be super valuable, with some even going for thousands of dollars.
Even common cards from that era are worth checking out, as the market for these collectibles is super strong.
Vintage LEGO Sets
LEGO sets, especially those from discontinued themes like Space or early Star Wars collections, can raise surprisingly high prices. If you have the original box and instructions, the value goes up even more. So be on the lookout for rare minifigures that could make enthusiasts go wild.
Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls
If you have any original Cabbage Patch Kids dolls from the ‘80s, especially those with birth certificates and original clothing, you might be looking at a pretty valuable find. Limited-edition or rare dolls can go for hundreds, with some selling for even more at auctions.
Game Boys and Early Handheld Consoles
If you consider yourself a bit of a gamer, you may have heard that old handheld gaming consoles like the original Nintendo Game Boy or Sega Game Gear are highly collectible these days. Working consoles in good condition are the most valuable, but even non-working ones can sell for parts.
Barbie Dolls from the ‘50s and ‘60s
Hiya Barbie! Our favorite blonde little doll lying around in attics and old boxes can be more valuable than you’d ever imagine. Vintage Barbie dolls, particularly those from her earliest years, can sell for huge prices. In fact, dolls in good condition with original outfits can sell for thousands these days.
Hot Wheels Cars
Found some old toy cars hanging around? Then you might be looking at something wheely wheely valuable. Certain Hot Wheels cars, especially those from the Redline era (around 1968 to 1977), can be worth big bucks.
Rare models, limited editions, or those in pristine packaging can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on their condition.
Power Rangers Action Figures
It’s not time to say “go, go” to your favorite old Power Rangers toys just yet. The Mighty Morphin Power Rangers craze of the ‘90s left behind a treasure trove of valuable collectibles that remain extremely popular to this day. Original action figures, Megazord sets, and weapons from the early seasons can command shockingly high prices, especially if they’re in mint condition.
My Little Pony
You might be surprised at just how big and diverse the My Little Pony fanbase is today. Vintage toys from the ‘80s are cherished by fans and collectors alike, and rare ponies can go for super high prices. If you have any from the original line, they’re definitely worth checking out before tossing them.
Transformers Toys
Original Transformers from the ‘80s, particularly the first-generation toys, are hot commodities among collectors today. Some fan favorites, like Optimus Prime and Megatron, in their original boxes can sell for big bucks. Even loose figures can be valuable if they’re complete and in good condition.
Care Bears
You may not care that much about your old Care Bears anymore, but a lot of people do! Care Bears from the ‘80s, especially the original plush toys, are a huge favorite among vintage collectors. Limited-edition bears or those in pristine condition can fetch impressive prices.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Toys
If you have any toys from the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles line in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, you should definitely do some research about their value. These little guys remain highly collectible today, and action figures, vehicles, and playsets in good condition are particularly valuable.
Star Wars Action Figures
Original Star Wars action figures from the late ‘70s and early ‘80s are some of the most popular and valuable collectibles you could own. Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, and Boba Fett figurines in their original packaging can sell for thousands and thousands. Loose figures can still fetch a good price if they’re complete with accessories.
Masters of the Universe Toys
He’s the man, and now he’s the expensive collectible too! He-Man and the Masters of the Universe toys from the ‘80s are another hot seller for collectors. Action figures, castles, and vehicles in good condition, especially those with original packaging, are in high demand these days.
Vintage Board Games
If you still have any classic board game originals from decades past, and especially if they have all their pieces intact, you could have quite a bit of money to make. Rare editions or games from discontinued lines, like certain Monopoly sets or 3M bookshelf games, can sell for big prices.
G.I. Joe Action Figures
Our favorite little muscle man from decades past hasn’t been forgotten about just yet. Vintage G.I. Joe action figures, especially the 12-inch models from the ‘60s or the smaller figures from the ‘80s, are considered super collectible. Figures in their original uniforms and packaging can make you a serious amount of cash, with rare characters fetching even more.
Furbies
A lot of people find Furbies pretty creepy and weird-looking, but apparently not everyone. These quirky little creatures from the late ‘90s have gained something of a cult following. First-generation Furbies in good condition, especially those with original packaging, can fetch impressive prices, with special editions or rare color variations going for even more.