10 Vintage Trick-or-Treat Buckets That Are Now Valuable Collectibles
Vintage trick-or-treat buckets are more than just childhood memorabilia; they have become sought-after collectibles in recent years. Many of these buckets were produced in the mid-20th century and feature iconic Halloween designs like jack-o’-lanterns, witches, and ghosts. With their nostalgic appeal and connection to the holiday, these items have gained value among collectors. Whether made of plastic or cardboard, each bucket tells a story of past Halloweens. Some were promotional items, while others were sold in stores, but all of them hold a special place in Halloween history.
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Hard Plastic Ghost Bucket by Empire Plastic
The Empire Plastic company produced a series of hard plastic trick-or-treat buckets in the 1950s and 1960s, and the ghost design is one of the most iconic. This bucket features a simple, yet charming ghost face, with the classic black and white color scheme. The bucket was part of a larger collection of whimsical Halloween designs that also included pumpkins, witches, and monsters. Its timeless design continues to captivate collectors today.
Currently, a well-preserved Empire Plastic Ghost Bucket can fetch anywhere between $150 and $300. Its popularity among collectors is driven by its nostalgic value and its status as a representative of Halloween traditions from decades past.
Vintage Jumbo Plastic Pumpkin Bucket
The Vintage Jumbo Plastic Pumpkin Bucket is a quintessential Halloween decoration from the 1970s and 1980s. With its bright orange exterior and classic jack-o’-lantern face, it has been a staple for trick-or-treaters for decades. These larger-than-life buckets were ideal for collecting an ample supply of Halloween candy, and they were frequently given out at department stores or local events.
In the current market, these jumbo pumpkin buckets typically range from $50 to $100, depending on condition. While not as rare as some other vintage buckets, their enduring popularity has kept demand high among collectors.
Hanna-Barbera Scooby-Doo Trick-or-Treat Bucket
This vintage Hanna-Barbera Scooby-Doo bucket, produced in the 1970s, features the beloved characters from the cartoon series. The bucket showcases Scooby-Doo and Shaggy in vibrant colors, with fun, spooky designs surrounding them. As an officially licensed product, it combines the appeal of both Halloween and the long-lasting popularity of the Scooby-Doo franchise.
This collectible can now sell for between $100 and $200, especially if the paint and design are intact. The combination of Halloween nostalgia and the classic Scooby-Doo characters ensures its place as a sought-after item among vintage collectors.
Vintage Skelly’s Skeleton Bucket
Skelly’s skeleton bucket, produced by Skelly Oil Company in the 1950s, features a spooky skeletal face that instantly evokes images of Halloween night. Its bold black and white design, paired with its slightly larger size, makes it a standout item. These buckets were originally given away as promotional items at gas stations and have become rare finds in the collector’s market.
Currently, Skelly’s Skeleton Bucket is valued between $250 and $400, with the price being heavily influenced by the condition of the paint and the rarity of the item. Its tie to the mid-century promotional world and its unique design continue to drive interest in this vintage piece.
Shindana Devil Bucket
Shindana, an African-American toy company, produced this devil-inspired trick-or-treat bucket during the 1960s. With its bright red color and devilish horns, this bucket was designed to stand out among the typical Halloween offerings. These buckets were often sold at local retail stores and were popular for their bold designs and durability.
Today, a Shindana Devil Bucket can command prices ranging from $200 to $350. The bucket’s distinct look and connection to Shindana’s culturally significant brand have made it an enduring collectible for Halloween enthusiasts..
Frankenstein’s Monster Plastic Bucket by Remco
Produced by Remco in the 1960s, the Frankenstein’s Monster Plastic Bucket is a standout piece for collectors of vintage Halloween memorabilia. The bucket features a striking green face with exaggerated bolts, offering a fun yet spooky design. This particular model was marketed alongside a popular series of Halloween-themed toys and was especially popular with young trick-or-treaters.
Today, a well-preserved Frankenstein’s Monster Plastic Bucket can fetch between $150 and $250. The unique design, combined with its connection to the Remco brand, makes it a highly collectible item in the Halloween enthusiast community..
Vintage Plastic Pumpkin by Union Products
Union Products, known for producing iconic Halloween decorations, released a plastic pumpkin bucket in the 1950s. This pumpkin bucket is noted for its smooth surface and simple, traditional jack-o’-lantern face. Unlike the more commonly found design, this particular version features a distinct, rounded shape and a sturdy handle, which was a key selling point in its time.
This vintage plastic pumpkin bucket typically sells for around $100 to $175. Its connection to Union Products and the traditional look it provides makes it a great find for collectors looking to capture the essence of vintage Halloween.
Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Bucket by Disneyland
The Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Bucket, released by Disneyland in the 1970s, features the beloved Mickey Mouse character with a pumpkin twist. With Mickey’s face carved into the front of the bucket and the pumpkin body adding a whimsical Halloween touch, this item quickly became a favorite among visitors to the park. It was often sold at Disneyland during Halloween events, making it a nostalgic collectible for Disney fans and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
Currently, this Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Bucket is valued between $150 and $250, depending on its condition. Its Disney heritage and limited availability make it a desirable piece for collectors, especially those with a love for both Halloween and Disney memorabilia.
Witch Bucket Hanging Ceramic
The Witch Bucket Hanging Ceramic is a beautifully crafted Halloween piece that captures the spirit of the season. With its whimsical design, it features a witch in mid-flight, flying across the sky with her broomstick. The ceramic construction makes it sturdy and durable, perfect for either hanging as a decoration or using as a functional candy bucket. The bucket’s design is both spooky and charming, with intricate details that evoke a classic Halloween atmosphere.
This hanging ceramic witch bucket is valued between $100 and $175, depending on its condition and rarity. The high-quality craftsmanship and nostalgic appeal of the item make it an attractive choice for collectors of vintage Halloween décor. Its ability to serve both as a functional item and a decorative piece only adds to its lasting appeal.
Yellow Candy Bucket Witch and Cat
The Yellow Candy Bucket Witch and Cat is a cheerful and fun Halloween item that features a vibrant yellow color, with a detailed design of a witch and her black cat. This bucket is made from durable material, ideal for holding candy or as part of a festive display. Its bright color and playful design make it stand out from other Halloween buckets, and it has become a popular piece for those seeking vintage holiday collectibles. Originally produced in the 1980s, it has since gained a loyal following among collectors.
Today, the Yellow Candy Bucket Witch and Cat is valued between $75 and $125, with its price varying based on the condition of the piece. The combination of cheerful design and vintage Halloween charm makes it an attractive item for collectors. Its playful and lighthearted aesthetic continues to make it a favorite for those who enjoy celebrating the spooky season.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.