Johann Hunt
Did you keep certain toys from your childhood? Maybe it is time to bring them out. Because those dusty treasures in your attic or basement might be worth a fortune. Many classic playthings have gained significant appreciation in recent years, transforming nostalgic memories into a valuable commodity for collectors. Swipe ahead to know which of your favorite old toys could pay off big.
American Girl Dolls (Original & Retired)
If you own an Early American Girl doll from the Pleasant Company era, you’re holding something truly valuable. Retired favorites like Kirsten and Samantha, with their real outfits and accessories, are also among the most sought-after vintage toys. Plus, if yours includes the “adoption papers” and real packaging, you might get the top dollar.
Classic PEZ Dispensers
Early PEZ dispensers from the 1950s and 60s without feet are timeless toys that many of us still look forward to. Rare character designs or promotional dispensers can yield a high price. In fact, if the dispensers are still in their genuine packaging, specifically on their factory cards, you can sell them for a good rate.
Original Game Boy
Your first Nintendo Game Boy, released in 1989, is more than just a memory. Enthusiasts value these iconic handheld consoles in excellent working condition. Finding one in its original box greatly further increases its worth, and the special editions or rare color variants also command higher prices today, making them valuable vintage tech.
Dollhouse
Having an old dollhouse from the early 20th century is a hidden treasure. Many collectors adore well-crafted dollhouses, particularly those featuring authentic miniature furniture and accessories. The more complete and detailed it is, the higher its potential value. So, before you dismiss it, take a closer look—your classic dollhouse might be highly worthy.
Super Soakers
Summer afternoons weren’t complete without a Super Soaker showdown. The CPS 2000? Absolute legend. Collectors still chase those powerful Larami blasters, especially if they’re in working order. Bonus points if the box survived all these years. Owning one isn’t just nostalgia—it’s holding a piece of backyard history worth real money.
Polly Pocket Sparkle Surprise
If you’re lucky enough to own a Polly Pocket from the iconic 1990s Bluebird era, you might be sitting on a valuable one, if it’s the coveted “Sparkle Surprise” compact. Toy hobbyists are on the hunt for complete sets, so every tiny figure and accessory counts. The real jackpot? A sealed set, such as this time-capsule toy, captures the charm of and continues to spark nostalgia.
Easy-Bake Oven
The early models of the Easy-Bake Oven, from the original 1960s versions, are now highly sought after. Enthusiasts often seek complete sets, including pans and mixes, as they are highly valued. In fact, if your Easy-Bake oven toy is in good working order, along with its box, it can yield a surprising amount.
Furby
The first-generation Furby, released in 1998, remains a nostalgic toy for most of us. Toy hobbyists purchase limited edition colors or specific variants for an increased value in the market. Additionally, a working Furby still in its unopened box and with electronic functions intact can be your key to maximizing its resale value.
‘Jurassic Park’ Action Figures
Kenner’s Jurassic Park action figures from 1993? An absolute treasure! Thanks to the popular film series, if you still own one, it can captivate many collectors. Those unreleased prototype variants are rare, and if yours is mint-on-card (MOC) and still in a sealed condition, enthusiasts will happily offer you big bucks.
Wonder Bread He-Man
This rare He-Man figure, a promotional item from a 1980s Wonder Bread giveaway, is a true gem. You can identify it by its unique white boots, and because it’s rare, it remains highly prized among Masters of the Universe fans. Finding this variant in sealed packaging or near-mint condition can yield substantial returns.
Authentic Transformers
Generation 1 (G1) Transformers figures from 1984–1992 are considered as one of the best toy collectibles! Icons like Optimus Prime (especially those early-run gems) can get you jaw-dropping prices today. The rarer the bot, the higher the bidding wars. These retro shape-shifting robots are gold in vintage circles!
Teddy Ruxpin
Teddy Ruxpin was an animatronic bear that read stories to children in the 1980s. However, he is more likely to be remembered by ’80s kids as a continual source of nightmare fuel. Since they can sell for up to $500 these days, it might be worth it if you still have one lying around.
Original Lite Brite
Many of us spent hours creating glowing designs in childhood. Surprisingly, the 1960s Lite-Brite models, with their larger pegs and distinctive light bulbs, are now valuable. A total set with all pegs, templates, and a working light box can fetch the top dollar. Also, finding a Lite-Brite in its actual packaging significantly increases its appeal.
Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls
Old toy seekers still look for early 1980s Cabbage Patch Kids or unique “soft sculpture” creations by Xavier Roberts. In particular, dolls with rare traits such as signature variants or exclusive real boxes are highly desirable. You must know that the limited edition patch dolls carry significant value and can get you impressive prices.
Old Video Games (Sealed & Graded)
Old-school Nintendo games (think NES, SNES, N64) aren’t just pixel-packed nostalgia—they’re valuables if sealed and pro-graded. Toy hobbyists often look for these classic gems from the ’80s and ’90s. The rarer and vintage, the richer you get—because retro games are now legit collectibles with sky-high price tags!