16 Fast Food Toys That Became Unexpected Collectibles
Some fast food toys, originally given away for free, later became valuable and sought-after collectibles.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Fast food chains often gave away toys as part of kids’ meals to boost sales and brand loyalty. Over time, many of these toys gained unexpected value due to nostalgia, rarity, or pop culture relevance. What started as simple giveaways are now considered collectible items by fans and collectors.
1. McDonald’s Teenie Beanie Babies (1997)
Ty Inc on Wikimedia Commons
McDonald’s partnered with Ty Inc. to release miniature versions of Beanie Babies. The toys caused long drive-thru lines and even shortages at some locations. Many people collected full sets, expecting future value. Some remain highly collectible and sell for much more than their original price.
2. Burger King Pokémon Toys (1999)
Caleb Oquendo on Pexels
To promote Pokémon: The First Movie, Burger King released toys in Poké Ball containers. The campaign became a major hit, and fans rushed to collect all 57 toys. Some of the sealed toys have grown in value over time. The promotion is still remembered for its size and impact.
3. McDonald’s Disney Masterpiece Collection Toys (1996)
Bobjgalindo on Wikimedia Commons
McDonald’s released toys based on classic Disney movies like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Bambi. Each toy came in a small plastic case designed to look like a VHS tape. The toys were simple figures, but the packaging made them stand out. Many people saved them, and full sets are now collected by Disney fans.
4. Wendy’s Transformers Go-Bots (1985)
Wendy’s on Wikimedia Commons
Wendy’s offered transforming robot toys based on the popular Transformers franchise. The figures were made of plastic and had simple designs, but fans loved the concept. Their connection to the original toy line added value later on. They’re now sought after by vintage toy collectors.
5. McDonald’s Muppet Babies (1986)
The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia Commons
This set included Muppet characters in vehicles, each with bright colors and moving parts. Kids could mix and match the toys, increasing play value. They were part of a larger trend of licensed character toys during the 1980s. Clean sets are still in demand among nostalgic collectors.
6. Burger King The Simpsons Watches (2002)
20th Century Studios on Wikimedia Commons
Burger King released character-themed digital watches to promote The Simpsons. Each watch had a different member of the Simpson family and came with unique sounds or graphics. The watches were both wearable and useful, which added to their appeal. Today, unused ones sell for a premium online.
7. McDonald’s Snoopy World Tour Figures (1998)
Wing1990hk on Wikimedia Commons
McDonald’s released Snoopy figures dressed in different global outfits, encouraging fans to collect them all. The toys were part of a global marketing effort and became popular in many countries. People traded figures across borders to complete the collection. Some are now rare and considered collector’s items.
8. Taco Bell Batman: The Animated Series Toys (1993)
PetrohsW on Wikimedia Commons
Taco Bell gave out toys based on Batman: The Animated Series, including character cards and simple gadgets. The designs reflected the show’s visual style and dark tone. Fans of the series appreciated the detailed look. Items in good condition now attract vintage toy collectors.
9. McDonald’s Power Rangers Figures (1994)
Power Rangers on Wikimedia Commons
McDonald’s released plastic figures of the original Power Rangers during the height of the show’s popularity. Each toy came with movable limbs and show-accurate costumes. They became instant hits with kids at the time. Now, collectors search for complete sets, especially unopened ones.
10. Burger King Lord of the Rings Light-Up Cups (2001)
New Line Cinema on Wikimedia Commons
During the release of The Fellowship of the Ring, Burger King offered a series of cups with light-up bases. Each cup featured a character from the film and lit up when picked up. Though not traditional toys, they became collector pieces due to the movie’s success. Complete sets are now sold on auction sites.
11. McDonald’s 101 Dalmatians Figurines (1996)
The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia Commons
To support the live-action film, McDonald’s released 101 different Dalmatian figures. The goal was to collect every dog, each with a unique design. The campaign was ambitious and drew major attention. Full collections are rare and can be valuable.
12. Hardee’s California Raisins (1987)
TBMNY on Wikimedia Commons
These small vinyl figures of the animated musical raisins became a surprising hit. Each one had a different instrument or pose. Though tied to a now-dated ad campaign, the toys gained a cult following. Vintage toy collectors still look for them in sets.
13. McDonald’s Super Mario Bros. 3 Toys (1990)
Nintendo on Wikimedia Commons
These toys featured characters from the Nintendo game and included action features like jumping or rolling. It was one of the earliest fast food promotions tied to a video game. Fans of Nintendo kept the toys as collectibles. Some now fetch high prices among retro game enthusiasts.
14. Burger King Pokémon Gold Cards (1999)
Romer Jed Medina on Wikimedia Commons
As part of the Pokémon craze, Burger King released gold-plated collectible cards in Poké Balls. Each card came in a velvet-like box and looked like a premium item. Though not actual gold, their presentation made them feel valuable. Sealed sets remain popular among fans.
15. McDonald’s My Little Pony Figures (1980s and 1990s)
Hasbro on Wikimedia Commons
McDonald’s released several generations of My Little Pony toys. Each one had bright colors, brushable hair, and a unique name. The quality and branding made them attractive to young fans. Many adults now collect them for nostalgia and rarity.
16. McDonald’s Space Jam Figures (1996)
Warner Bros. Pictures on Wikimedia Commons
These toys featured characters from Space Jam in basketball gear, often with built-in action features. They were timed with the original film’s release starring Michael Jordan. The toys became part of 1990s pop culture. Today, complete sets are still bought by fans of the era.