17 VHS Tapes You Wish You’d Kept (Now Worth Big Money)
Many collectors and movie buffs regret letting go of their old VHS tapes, unaware that some titles have grown significantly in value. Whether due to rarity, cult status, or nostalgia, certain VHS tapes are now fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars in auctions and private sales.
- Tricia Quitales
- 6 min read
VHS tapes were once a staple of home entertainment, now they’re collector’s gold. As time passed and DVDs took over, millions discarded their VHS tapes without realizing their future worth. Today, select titles are worth far more than their original retail price. This guide highlights 17 VHS tapes that could have earned you a small fortune.
1. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Black Diamond Edition)
Walter Crane / Edmund Evans on Wikimedia
The Black Diamond editions are a known collector’s treasure, and this classic Disney film is one of the most coveted. Tapes in mint condition with the “Black Diamond” logo can fetch up to $10,000 online. Its rarity lies in the limited production run before Disney moved to newer formats. Collectors often look for original clamshell cases and unbroken seals. Owning this version today could mean a hefty payday.
2. Star Wars Trilogy (Original Theatrical Releases)
LucasArt and Cody escadron delta on Wikimedia
Before the digitally remastered versions, the original Star Wars trilogy was released on VHS in its untouched form. These pre-Special Edition tapes are incredibly valuable to die-hard fans. Many collectors are willing to pay a premium to experience George Lucas’s original vision. A sealed box set can command several hundred to even a few thousand dollars. Rarity and demand keep these tapes climbing in value.
3. The Little Mermaid (Banned Cover Art)
The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia
The original VHS cover of The Little Mermaid included a controversial piece of artwork that was quickly recalled. Disney pulled the version after public outcry, making surviving copies rare. Collectors seek this edition for its infamous history. Even the opened versions can go for hundreds. Sealed copies are even more valuable due to their scarcity.
4. Back to the Future
back to the future on Wikimedia
This 1986 release was among the early MCA Home Video tapes and is now a collector’s gem. The popularity of the franchise adds to its desirability. Pristine copies in original cases are harder to come by today. Fans and collectors often want to own the original release, not the reissues. Tapes in mint condition can sell for several hundred dollars.
5. Halloween (Media Home Entertainment)
Universal Pictures on Wikimedia
The original Halloween VHS from Media Home Entertainment is a cult collector’s dream. Released in the late 70s, it holds both nostalgic and historical value. Condition plays a big role, with unsealed or damaged boxes fetching less. Horror fans often prize these tapes for their rarity and authenticity. A high-quality version can command a premium price.
6. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1988 Green Tape Release)
Ron Lach on pexels
The green tape release of E.T. in 1988 is highly sought-after among collectors. This version had a limited production and was part of a promotional campaign. Its unique tape color and retro packaging add to its charm. Complete sets with original inserts can fetch surprising amounts. Even opened versions retain decent value if well-preserved.
7. The Lion King (Black Diamond Edition)
The Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia
Like Beauty and the Beast, the Black Diamond version of The Lion King is a top-tier collector’s item. The popularity of the film makes it a high-demand tape. Sealed or near-mint copies can reach values upward of $2,000. This version was only available for a limited window before being retired. It remains one of the most recognized tapes in Disney’s collector market.
8. Aladdin (Black Diamond Edition)
Disney Television Animation on Wikimedia
Another Disney gem, the Black Diamond edition of Aladdin is no exception in collector circles. As with other Black Diamond titles, scarcity and condition are key. It’s often part of bundle deals or sold individually at high prices. Tapes with original stickers and shrink-wrap are the most valuable. Fans often seek it as part of a complete Disney VHS collection.
9. Gremlins (Warner Home Video)
Warner Bros. on Wikimedia
The 1985 release of Gremlins is prized for its original VHS packaging and nostalgic appeal. Warner Home Video editions in mint condition are harder to find as time goes on. Horror-comedy fans continue to drive up demand. First-run tapes are typically worth more than reprints. Collectors look for crisp artwork and intact cases to ensure top value.
10. The Goonies (1986 Warner Bros. Release)
RootOfAllLight on Wikimedia
The Goonies continues to enjoy cult status, making its early VHS release a collector’s favorite. Warner Bros.’ 1986 edition with original artwork and packaging is highly prized. Fans pay a premium for clean copies, especially sealed ones. It’s a nostalgic symbol of ’80s adventure cinema. As demand grows, so does its resale value.
11. Fantasia (Black Diamond Classic Edition)
Walt Disney Productions for RKO Radio Pictures on Wikimedia
Disney’s Fantasia, in its Black Diamond release, is among the rarest in the set. The film’s niche appeal adds to its collectible nature. Many copies were damaged over time, making well-preserved versions rare. This release included unique packaging elements that collectors seek. Unopened versions can reach values in the thousands.
12. Blade Runner (CBS/Fox Video)
Banjo on Wikimedia
The 1983 release of Blade Runner by CBS/Fox Video is a true sci-fi collector’s prize. Its early release and cult following drive its value up consistently. Most fans seek this version for its vintage box art and audio quality. Pristine versions with the original CBS/Fox logo are particularly rare. It has become one of the most valuable early sci-fi VHS tapes.
13. The Fox and the Hound (Black Diamond Edition)
Anthony 🙂 on Pexels
Though less popular than other Disney films, The Fox and the Hound holds value for its Black Diamond status. Sealed or excellent condition tapes have gained more attention from collectors. Disney enthusiasts often want to complete the full Black Diamond set. This title was not as widely circulated, increasing its rarity. Today, it can sell for several hundred dollars online.
14. Bambi (Original VHS Release)
Walt Disney Company on Wikimedia
The 1989 VHS release of Bambi is part of the early wave of Disney home videos. Its value is tied to nostalgia and its place in the Black Diamond collection. Tapes with original inserts, artwork, and shrink-wrap are the most sought-after. It remains a favorite among classic Disney collectors. Prices range widely depending on condition.
15. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (Wizard Video Release)
Fractured Vision on Wikimedia
Wizard Video’s early ’80s release of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is considered a grail among horror fans. The distinctive red and black box art makes it instantly recognizable. This edition is incredibly rare, especially in good condition. Horror collectors are known to pay thousands for sealed or near-mint copies. It’s a cornerstone of any vintage horror VHS collection.
16. The Rescuers (Controversial Scene Edition)
MICHAELFILMDIRECTOR on Wikimedia
An early version of The Rescuers featured a background image that was quickly removed in later prints. Disney recalled many of these tapes, but some still remain in circulation. This version’s rarity and controversy give it serious collector appeal. Even opened copies can fetch high prices. The more pristine the condition, the higher the value.
17. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Original CBS/Fox Release)
20th Century Fox on Wikimedia
The cult following of The Rocky Horror Picture Show has only increased over the decades. Its original VHS release by CBS/Fox Video is a collector’s favorite. Fans seek this version for its nostalgic value and iconic cover art. Mint condition copies can go for hundreds, especially if unopened. It remains a must-have for cult film enthusiasts.