12 Toys from Happy Meals That Are Worth a Small Fortune

McDonald’s Happy Meal toys were once just cheap plastic collectibles, but some have turned into valuable treasures. Rare releases, limited editions, and nostalgic favorites now sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If you still have a stash of these childhood relics, you might be sitting on a goldmine.

1. Pokémon Exclusive Cards (2001-Present)

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McDonald’s has released several sets of exclusive Pokémon cards over the years, but some are now worth serious cash. The 25th Anniversary holo cards (2021) and older promo sets from 2001 and 2011 are especially valuable. Rare cards like the holographic Pikachu from the 2021 set can sell for over $100 alone, while complete, sealed sets go for even more. If you have older McDonald’s Pokémon promos in mint condition, you might be sitting on a small fortune.

2. Gundam Collab Toys

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McDonald’s Japan released exclusive Gundam Happy Meal (or “Happy Set”) toys in 2002 and again in 2020. These mini-plastic models featured popular Mobile Suit designs like the RX-78-2 and Zaku. The 2002 figures are the rarest, with some selling for over $300, especially if they’re still sealed. The 2020 set also gained popularity; complete collections can fetch $100+ on collector sites.

3. Hot Wheels (1983-present)

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McDonald’s has been giving away Hot Wheels cars for decades, but some early releases are now worth serious cash. Certain models from the ’80s and ’90s, especially those with unique paint jobs, can sell for over $100 each. You’re looking at even more if you have a rare variant, like the elusive gold-plated car. A full vintage set can fetch a small fortune.

4. McFurbys (1999)

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These miniature versions of the wildly popular Furby toy were a hit in the late ’90s. They came in different colors and had moving eyes and beaks, making them feel like tiny versions of the real thing. A full set in mint condition can sell for over $300 today. Some rare variations, like the rainbow Furby, are worth even more.

5. Muppet Babies (1986)

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These adorable figures featured Baby Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie, and the rest of the gang in various vehicles. The toys had moving parts, making them more interactive than most Happy Meal freebies. If you have a complete set in great condition, you could pocket around $250. Some sealed ones have gone for even more.

6. Mario Kart 64 Toys (1999)

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These toys featured characters like Mario, Luigi, and Bowser in small, pull-back race cars. Released at the height of Nintendo 64’s popularity, they became instant collector’s items. A complete set can sell for $300 or more. Sealed versions are even more valuable, with some going for over $500.

7. Power Rangers (1994-1995)

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With the Power Rangers craze in full swing, McDonald’s released action figures based on the original TV series. Some of these figures, especially the Megazord, are now hot collector’s items. Sealed figures can sell for over $200 each. A full set in the package is even more valuable.

8. Batman: The Animated Series (1993)

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These toys featured Batman, Robin, the Joker, and other characters from the hit cartoon. Some came with small gadgets, like a Batmobile or glider wings. If you have the full set in good condition, it could be worth around $250. Sealed versions can sell for even higher prices.

9. Minions (2013-2015)

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Minions might not seem old, but some early Happy Meal releases are already valuable. Certain rare figures from overseas McDonald’s locations are especially sought after. A complete international set can go for over $400. Limited-edition holiday versions are also worth big money.

10. Vintage Plushies (1980s-1990s)

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McDonald’s released several plush toy collections, and some have skyrocketed in value. The Fraggle Rock plushies (1988), Berenstain Bears (1990), and McDonaldland characters like Grimace and the Hamburglar (1980s-1990s) are especially valuable. Rare ones in mint condition can sell for $200+, with full sets going even higher. Sealed or tag-intact plushies are the real jackpot for collectors.  

11. Disney 100 Years of Magic (2002)

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To celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary, McDonald’s released an enormous collection of 100 toys featuring classic movie characters. Finding the entire set is almost impossible, but even individual figures can cost $50 or more. A full collection in mint condition could be worth thousands.

12. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (1994)

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McDonald’s released a Sonic the Hedgehog 3 toy set in the ’90s, featuring characters like Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Dr. Robotnik with fun action features. These toys were a huge hit at the time, and now collectors are willing to pay $200+ for a full set in good condition. Sealed figures, especially Sonic, have sold for over $300. With Sonic’s ongoing popularity, its value keeps rising!

• Tags:
• collectibles
• retro
• Toys
• Nostalgia
• McDonalds