12 Vintage Toys That Are Worth a Fortune Today
Some childhood favorites have skyrocketed in value, turning nostalgic toys into collectors' goldmines.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Nowadays, a lot of vintage toys that previously occupied playrooms and toy chests are valued at hundreds of dollars. Collectors are prepared to spend a lot of money on well-preserved antique toys, such as renowned board games and rare action figures. These twelve childhood treasures have the potential to bring you great wealth in the present day.
1. First Edition Barbie (1959)
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The original Barbie, released in 1959 with her black-and-white striped swimsuit, is highly sought after. A pristine first-edition doll with all accessories can fetch over $25,000.
2. Star Wars Action Figures (1977-1980s)
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Original Star Wars toys from the late ‘70s and early ‘80s have become some of the most valuable collectibles. A mint-condition 1978 Luke Skywalker with a double-telescoping lightsaber sold for over $25,000.
3. Hot Wheels “Volkswagen Beach Bomb” (1969)
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This prototype Hot Wheels car, designed with surfboards sticking out the back, was never released to the public. Only a few exist, and one sold for over $125,000.
4. G.I. Joe Action Figures (1964-1970s)
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The original 12-inch G.I. Joe dolls from the ‘60s are incredibly valuable today. A rare prototype or special edition figure can sell for thousands.
5. Pokémon Cards (1990s)
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The Pokémon craze of the ‘90s produced some extremely valuable trading cards. A 1999 first-edition holographic Charizard card has sold for over $300,000.
6. Cabbage Patch Kids (1980s)
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These soft-bodied dolls were a massive craze in the ‘80s, and some are now worth serious money. Early hand-stitched versions or dolls with rare features can fetch thousands.
7. Teddy Ruxpin (1985)
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This animatronic storytelling bear was a must-have toy in the mid-‘80s. While standard versions sell for a few hundred dollars, rare first editions or boxed versions can be worth thousands.
8. Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Games (1980s-1990s)
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Some classic NES cartridges are now worth a fortune, especially if they’re unopened. A sealed copy of Super Mario Bros. recently sold for $2 million.
9. Transformers G1 Figures (1980s)
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The original Generation 1 Transformers from the ‘80s are highly collectible today. A mint-condition Optimus Prime in its box can sell for thousands.
10. Beanie Babies (1990s)
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Some Beanie Babies from the ‘90s are still worth big money. Rare editions like the Princess Diana Bear or Peanut the Royal Blue Elephant have sold for thousands.
11. Lite-Brite (1967-1980s)
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This creative toy from the late ‘60s and ‘70s is a favorite among vintage toy collectors. An original Lite-Brite set in mint condition with all pegs and templates can sell for hundreds.
12. Easy-Bake Oven (1963-1980s)
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This mini baking toy has been around since the ‘60s, but early models are especially valuable. A vintage working Easy-Bake Oven from the ‘60s or ‘70s in excellent condition can be worth several hundred dollars.