12 Rare Toys from Legendary Brands That Every Collector Wants

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Star Wars Action Figures (Original Series)

The original Star Wars action figures, released in the late 1970s and early 1980s, remain among the most sought-after collectibles today. These toys were created to coincide with the release of the Star Wars films and quickly became a part of pop culture history. The figures, including rare characters like the Vinyl Cape Jawa or the 12-back Luke Skywalker, are especially prized for their condition and rarity. Collectors often seek out unopened figures, as the value skyrockets for those still sealed in their original packaging.

Original Kenner Star Wars action figures from the late 1970s and early 1980s can vary widely in value. For example, a loose, incomplete figure might range from $5 to $30, while a loose, complete figure could be valued between $50 and $150. Mint-on-card (MOC) figures are significantly more valuable, with prices ranging from $200 to $900, depending on the character and condition

Barbie Doll (1960s – Early Editions)

The original Barbie dolls, especially those produced in the 1960s, are a treasure trove for toy collectors. Released by Mattel in 1959, Barbie became a cultural icon, and the earliest dolls produced in the 1960s are highly prized today. These dolls often came with detailed outfits and accessories that were unique to their era, and the more elaborate and pristine the condition, the higher the value. For collectors, the first editions, with their distinct face mold and black-and-white striped swimsuit, are a particularly notable find.

Vintage Barbie dolls from the 1960s, particularly the #6 Ponytail Barbie introduced in 1962, are highly sought after. A well-preserved example in its original box can fetch around $500, especially if it retains its original accessories and packaging

Hot Wheels Cars (late 1960s and early 1970s)

Hot Wheels cars, created by Mattel and first released in 1968, revolutionized die-cast toys with their high-performance models and attention to detail. The early Hot Wheels cars, especially those produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, are some of the most coveted items in the world of toy collecting. These cars are known for their colorful paint jobs, unique designs, and the distinctive “Redline” wheels that marked their early production years. Some of the rarest models include the “Over Chrome” versions and the “Mad Maverick” car.

Hot Wheels Redline cars from the late 1960s are prized among collectors. Models like the Custom Mustang in pink or the Python in purple can range from $95 to $250, depending on their condition and rarity.

G.I. Joe Action Figures (Original 12-Inch Series)

G.I. Joe action figures, first introduced by Hasbro in 1964, were groundbreaking at the time for being one of the first action figures marketed specifically for boys. The original 12-inch G.I. Joe figures set the stage for what would become a legendary toy line. Early models, especially those from the 1960s, are highly sought after, particularly those that come with original uniforms and accessories. Some figures, like the first-ever G.I. Joe, are rare finds in good condition and can command significant prices at auctions.

Vintage 12-inch G.I. Joe action figures from the 1960s and 1970s are collectible, with prices varying based on rarity and condition. For instance, a John Glenn astronaut figure from the 1960s can be valued around $65, while other figures may range from $40 to $70.

Transformers Toys (Generation 1)

Released in the 1980s by Hasbro, Transformers toys took the world by storm with their innovative design and the popular animated series. The original Generation 1 (G1) Transformers, such as Optimus Prime, Megatron, and Bumblebee, are highly sought after by collectors. These toys were one of the first to feature intricate transformation mechanisms that turned vehicles into robots and vice versa. Complete, boxed sets from the 1980s are especially valuable, with certain figures, such as the original Optimus Prime, being worth a significant amount.

Generation 1 Transformers toys from the 1980s, like Optimus Prime, are highly collectible. A complete, boxed Optimus Prime figure in near-mint condition can be valued around $145, with variations and rarities affecting the price.

Cabbage Patch Kids (1980s)

Cabbage Patch Kids were one of the most popular toy crazes of the 1980s, with their unique, handmade look and distinct personalities. The original batch of Cabbage Patch Kids, especially those with rare features like specific hair colors or facial expressions, are highly collectible. These dolls were released by Xavier Roberts and were initially sold in limited quantities, which adds to their rarity. Some versions that were sold in the 1980s, particularly those with specific birth certificates or signature features, are worth a considerable amount on the resale market.

Original Cabbage Patch Kids from the 1980s, particularly those with unique features or limited editions, can command high prices. Dolls with rare outfits or specific characteristics have been known to sell for between $1,000 and $6,000 at auctions.

Peanuts Figurines by Schultz

Charles Schulz’s beloved characters from the Peanuts comic strip have been turned into collectible figurines for decades. The early Peanuts figurines, produced by companies like Danbury Mint and Hamilton Collection, are particularly sought after by collectors. These figurines feature characters such as Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, and Linus in various poses and scenarios from the classic comic strip. Limited editions, especially those that were produced in small batches or have rare paint colors, are among the most valuable.

Limited edition Peanuts figurines from the 1960s and 1970s, produced by companies like Danbury Mint and Hamilton Collection, are sought after. Prices for these figurines can vary, with some rare pieces fetching several hundred dollars.

Monopoly (1930s – 1950s Editions)

Monopoly, the iconic board game created in the 1930s, has been produced in many different editions over the years. The earliest editions, particularly those from the 1930s to 1950s, remain some of the most valuable collectibles today. The original “Landlord’s Game” design, which later evolved into Monopoly, was first self-published by Charles Darrow in 1933. The rarest versions include those that were printed during the early years of its mass production, especially with unique board designs and rare tokens.

Collecting vintage Monopoly games often means tracking down specific versions, such as the “Wooden Board” edition or those with metal tokens, which were only available in select early runs. Vintage Monopoly sets from the 1930s to 1950s are collectible, with values depending on the edition and condition. A well-preserved set can be valued between $100 and $500, with rare editions reaching higher prices.

Fisher-Price Little People (1960s – 1970s)

Fisher-Price Little People toys, first introduced in the 1960s, have become a beloved part of childhood memories for many. The earliest versions of these small, wooden people are particularly valuable to collectors. These figures, which featured simple, colorful designs, were often sold with playsets like farmhouses and zoos, and the original sets are among the most prized. Early versions of these toys, with their hand-painted faces and wooden bodies, are increasingly rare and can command significant prices at auctions.

The nostalgic appeal of these toys, combined with their historical value, ensures that Fisher-Price Little People are still highly sought after. Original Fisher-Price Little People figures from the 1960s and 1970s are nostalgic favorites. Individual figures in good condition can range from $10 to $50, while complete playsets can be valued between $100 and $300.

Teddy Ruxpin (1985 Original Edition)

Teddy Ruxpin, the animatronic bear who captivated children in the 1980s, has remained a nostalgic favorite. Released by Worlds of Wonder in 1985, this talking teddy bear revolutionized interactive toys with its ability to move its eyes and mouth while reading stories from a cassette tape. The original edition, particularly the first-run models, are among the most sought-after by collectors. These early models often come with rare tapes and accessories that were only available during the toy’s initial release.

Collectors specifically look for Teddy Ruxpin dolls in good working condition, as finding one that still functions properly is a rarity. The original Teddy Ruxpin doll from 1985, especially in working condition with original tapes, is a sought-after item. Prices can vary, with well-maintained dolls reaching between $100 and $300.

Corgi Toys (Original 1960s Models)

Corgi Toys, known for producing high-quality die-cast vehicles, first started manufacturing in the 1950s. The original models from the 1960s, particularly those that feature cars and vehicles from famous movies and television shows, remain highly desirable. Corgi’s “James Bond” Aston Martin DB5 from the 1960s is one of the most iconic and valuable models ever produced, complete with ejector seat features and other unique details. These early models often came with special decals and intricate detailing, making them stand out from other toy cars of the time.

The company’s commitment to craftsmanship made its products highly sought after by collectors. Rare cars that were only produced in limited runs, such as the “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” car, continue to be among the most valuable. Corgi die-cast vehicles from the 1960s, particularly those with unique features or limited editions, are valuable to collectors. Prices can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the model and condition.

 Tamagotchi (1996 First Edition)

The Tamagotchi, a virtual pet released in 1996 by Bandai, became an international phenomenon and is still cherished by collectors today. The original first-edition models are especially sought after for their simplicity and their groundbreaking role in the development of digital toys. The initial run of Tamagotchis, particularly those in their original packaging and those that come with rare colors or unique features, hold significant value. These handheld pets allowed users to care for and interact with a digital animal, and the nostalgia surrounding this toy continues to make it a must-have for collectors.

Finding an original Tamagotchi in perfect working condition is no easy feat, as these devices were often carried around in bags or pockets and subjected to wear and tear. The original Tamagotchi virtual pet from 1996 is a nostalgic collectible. Well-preserved units can be valued between $50 and $150, with special editions or colors reaching higher prices.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.