14 Retro Toys from the ’80s That Are Now Collectibles
These iconic ’80s toys once filled toy chests — now, they fill collectors’ shelves and auction sites.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
The 1980s were a golden age for toys. What were once casual playthings have transformed into valuable collectibles, some worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This list revisits the most beloved retro toys from the era that collectors can’t stop chasing.
1. Original Transformers Action Figures
Mike Renlund on Flickr
These shape-shifting robots were more than meets the eye and a staple of Saturday mornings. Kids loved converting them between vehicles and warriors, but collectors prize the originals for their die-cast details and packaging.
2. Cabbage Patch Kids
Lisa Schaffer on Flickr
Adopted by millions, these unique-faced dolls came with their own birth certificate and backstory. What started a retail craze in the ’80s is now a collectible category all its own.
3. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe
Trollan Magician on Flickr
He-Man, Skeletor, and friends ruled bedroom battles with bulging muscles and bold accessories. The figures came with mini comics and had a rugged charm.
4. Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
Tomasz Filipek on Pexels
More than a toy, the NES redefined home entertainment. Bundled with Duck Hunt or Super Mario Bros., it launched gaming into a new era.
5. Teddy Ruxpin
Wade Tregaskis on Flickr
This animatronic bear talked, moved, and read stories from cassette tapes embedded in his back. Once cutting-edge tech, today he’s a quirky collector’s dream.
6. My Little Pony (Generation 1)
Hina Ichigo on Flickr
These pastel ponies with flowing manes weren’t just for brushing — they were a full-on fantasy world. Each pony had a name, symbol, and storyline.
7. G.I. Joe Action Figures (3.75")
Brecht Bug on Flickr
Compact and packed with personality, these action heroes came with a file card detailing their backstory. Accessories, vehicles, and playsets completed the lineup.
8. Lite-Brite
Scott Beale on Flickr
With glowing pegs and black paper templates, Lite-Brite lit up imaginations in the ’80s. Kids created glowing images by pushing colorful pegs into a backlit board.
9. Speak & Spell
mac morrison on Wikimedia Commons
This electronic toy helped kids learn spelling with a robotic voice straight from the future. Featured in movies like E.T., its clunky keypad and red-orange shell are instantly recognizable.
10. Pound Puppies
Joe Haupt on Flickr
These soft, floppy stuffed dogs came in “adoption-ready” boxes and won over kids with their sad eyes. Each pup had a unique look and name, encouraging a sense of ownership.
11. Simon Electronic Game
Shritwod on Wikimedia Commons
Simon’s colorful, circular memory game tested your reflexes and short-term recall. With beeping lights and increasing difficulty, it was a simple yet addictive challenge.
12. Rainbow Brite Dolls
zeldyxpixie1 on DeviantArt
With her bright outfit and magical color powers, Rainbow Brite became a symbol of cheerful ’80s childhood. Her dolls, friends, and colorful horse Starlite were must-haves.
13. Star Wars Kenner Figures (Original Trilogy)
Simon Q on Flickr
Although Star Wars began in the late ’70s, the ’80s saw a boom in figure releases. Kenner’s line covered almost every character imaginable, big and small.
14. View-Master 3D Viewer
Smabs Sputzer (1956-2017) on Flickr
Insert a round reel, click the lever, and dive into a world of 3D storytelling. The View-Master brought nature, cartoons, and even travel to life in stereoscopic glory.