Each year, the toy market booms with new products that young children go crazy over. Given that each year new toys are created, it makes sense that many are forgotten. However, there are those timeless items that are around forever and never go forgotten. With the advance in technology, it is obvious that many of these childhood favorites have gotten an upgrade, but some of the originals are ten times more valuable than ever before! Let’s take a look at how valuable these items just are… Let’s take a trip down memory lane and see which of these toys you remember.
Tamagotchi
While it was originally sold for $18, the Tamagotchi is now valued at $200! This toy was once a tiny little pocket doy created in 1996 by Japanese inventors Akihiro Yokoi and Aki Maita. After it hit the market, Aki Maita received a Nobel Prize award in economics. The name itself is made of two Japanese words that mean “egg” and “watch,” and the miniature toy taught children how to essentially care for a virtual animal. This was the biggest thing in the ’90s and today it had an updated release, with over 82 million sales!
Tamagotchi
Furby
When Furby first came out Americans were confused at what the item even was. It didn’t take long for people to go mad over the furry, talking robot toy created by Tiger Electronics. Still, consumers weren’t quite sure what animal the toy impersonated, but it was still considered a must-have item. Parents broke into absolute chaos over securing this item for their children. over 12 months around 27 million Furbies were sold and the price went up to nearly $300! Today they are very valuable if they are in good condition and many are still in the process of being made.
Furby
View-Master
Once sold for $12.50, the View-Master is now worth $430. In 1939 this item was first introduced and could take you to a 3-d world, which was a concept that was hard to comprehend. Although most don’t know this, this item was used on Disneyland rides. We could be reliving in the Jurassic Park adventures with this toy but the question is if we want to spend all our money’s worth on this!
View-Master
Power Rangers Toys
We all remember the legends of the power rangers but how much do we remember the toys? These figures flew off the shelves when the show was popular but we’re curious how much this toy earned. This item alone earned over $6 billion, making it an epic business success. It was originally sold for $13, and today collectors are willing to pay $140, probably because of what a hit the show was back in the ’90s. If you’re a lucky owner of the entire you should hold on to that and make sure it doesn’t get into the wrong because you, my friend, have yourself a fortune!
Power Rangers Toys
Troll Dolls
Since the 1960s the infamous Troll Dolls have been around, but today they are still popularly sold! They are also sold in England under a different name, “Gonk Trolls.” Many companies adopted the design and started to make their dollars with their specialized design. However, the original creator has copyrights. So many different versions have been sold, making them truly an iconic find. Today you can find special editions in impeccable conditions, sold for 10 times the pice posted online. They were once sold for $5 and today the collector’s price is $40.
Troll Dolls
Sky Dancers
At one point Sky dancers were the most popular thing to buy. Just imagine yourself pulling that string to see them fly to the ceiling, what fun! Each doll had its own story and there was even a show based on them. The dolls are still sold around the world, but once they were $9.99 and today the collector’s price is $80! If you happen to own an original, consider yourself lucky because many would pay an arm and a leg to get their hands on these dolls!
Sky Dancers
American Girl Dolls
For little girls all over America, American Girl Dolls were THE item to have. Especially fans of the famous book series. Ever individual doll had its own 6 book series attached that described the history of those children. These dolls were also considered to be rather expensive but began as $82 was just the start. Buying the doll was not enough when you needed to accessorize with pricey outfits that were sent to parents in the mail. These dolls now sell for hundreds.
American Girl Dolls
Nintendo 64
This product shocked America as it was a super-advanced console for the period. There was nothing like adventuring through Mario 64 and Banjo Kazooie! The 3D graphics were unheard of and the games were well developed and advanced. After some time, Gamecube trumped Nintendo but you can still sell yours for hundreds as the collector’s price is $370.
Nintendo 64
Easy Bake Oven
If you were a little girl back in the day then you surely nudged your parents countless times to get you an easy bake oven. This item was first released in the ’60s but was then updated to resemble a microwave. Even today there are updated versions but the original concept lives on! The vintage conditions are so rare that they can be sold for almost $300 when they were bought for nearly $50.
Easy Bake Oven
Pokémon Trading Card Game
Based on the Nintendo video games, Pokémon Trading Cards were created and people went crazy. Especially since the game slogan was ” gotta catch em all” and certainly helped with the mass purchasing. As of now, this paper product is not worth much, but some rare cards are not worthless. One card was posted for a shocking amount of nearly $100k!!! You probably regret getting rid of these cards now!
Pokémon Trading Card Game
Beanie Babies
In the ’90s, beanie babies were the top of the line product and kids adored these little animals more than anything. Over 100 different kinds were made and they were quickly made into collectibles that people were investing in. At the height of popularity, they were sold for insane amounts but this was shortlived. Today they are pretty worthless and sell for close to the original price of $5. However, if you have the right hidden treasure than it may resell for almost $8000.
Beanie Babies
Bop It
If you were born in the ’90s then you remember the familiar sounds that go like this “Bop it!” “Twist it” “Pull it! You probably are being taken back to the days where you had to engage in the fast-paced electronic game trying your best not to miss your turn. Ever since it exploded on the market, many versions have been created with different shapes added to mix. Today it’s not worth much, but a vintage version can be sold for more than you paid for as the collector’s price is $35!
Bop It
Lite-Brite
This item was first introduced in the ’60s but is quite popular today. The game aimed to use your imagination to create a design made from colorful lights. In the end, you would have a beautiful scene to show your parents. Children still buy this product today but the vintage edition is definitely worth a ton, with the collector’s price listed at $150.
Lite Brite
Pogs
This may be a strange one but many children from the pog era can tell you about this item and the game associated with the toy. Each character and color used to be the gossip in the middle school world but where did it come from? On theory is that this game relates to Hawaii almost a hundred years ago. We can never really know how a game comes about what we know for certain is that a full set that can be sold for around $250!
Pogs
Pretty Pretty Princess
This was the perfect game that every little girl could use as an excuse to get away from their brother. It was the chance to wear fake jewelry all over your body! Who doesn’t love a tiara? The point was to deck yourself up in royal wear, which was favored amongst young girls in America. Today an original version could probably score you over $100 since you can’t find it anywhere.
Pretty Pretty Princess
Polly Pocket
Every young girl wanted to have their own Polly pocket or multiple! We don’t blame them, what’s better than your doll who has a house that transforms into a carry on the box. In 1989 it was first released on its own and was sold for $10. Then it was bought by Mattel and several changes have been made. Today the originals are worth a ton, one of which was sold for $13,000!
Polly Pocket
Tickle Me, Elmo
When the holiday season would come around, this item was something parents rushed for. While it was clear Elmo was fun and adored character from Sesame Street, there was no way to describe what it was like to interact with him like this. With one tight hug, Elmo would give up this warm and infectious laugh. Parents did everything they could to buy this $29 stuffed animal and today its worth around $250!
Tickle Me Elmo
Talkback Dear Diary
This advanced notebook was a huge deal for young girls who were used to writing with paper and pen. Girls could record what they felt and it was an exciting thing in the ’90s to be able to record yourself and hear it! This was way before smartphones were invented and it was something the world was not used to. Today phones have replaced this excitement but originals sell for around $200.
Talkback Dear Diary
Dream Phone
Before girls and boys dove deep into the world of dating, Dream Phone was the best game to play. It consisted of 24 boys that may or may not have a crush on you and a pink phone that allowed you to call them to hear more. Young girls were excited about such a game as well as the mystery and scandal are entailed. Young women remember this game and some even pay $100 to relive the experience.
Dream Phone
Barbie
Barbies started in 1959 and every young girl had one. Barbie adapted to all the latest styles and knew what was coming next. The original barbie that was sold for $3 is very different than what she is now but today the doll comes in all shapes, colors, and sizes. An original was released by Mattel but if you have your own you may get rich because today they are worth $5000.
Barbie
Strawberry Shortcake Dolls
In 1979 the cute little strawberry shortcake dollars were brought to the shelves, by Muriel Fahrion. She motivated the start of films, Tv programs, and other merchandise after her design. If you happen to have any vintage items of your own then you may be in luck because these items, which were once purchased for $20, are not worth $550!
Strawberry Shortcake Dolls
Super Soaker
Summer in the ’90s was the wait around the season when super soakers were introduced! This water gun was the must-have item and ever since versions have been recreated. The originals still mean a lot to people and they are willing to pay big bucks for them. If they are in top condition they may seel for hundreds, because the newer models are not the same experience. This ultimate water gun has made more than $1 billion for the business.
Super Soaker
Spice Girls Doll Collection
The Spice Girls introduced the slogan “Girl Power,” but the sentence has changed quite a bit since then. The barbie doll adaption of the girl band was so close to the real-life version and young girls around the country needed this collection. Today the collection is worth a ton with collectors willing to pay $225 for the full set.
Spice Girls Doll Collection
Hot Wheels
Hot Wheels were an essential toy when they first came out but the same remains today. All the time new versions are created and originals now are worth more than some actual cars! Just listen to this, a pink Volkswagen Beach Bomb model sold for $125,000! These prices are mind-boggling.
Hot Wheels
Monopoly: Original Editions
Ever since the original $2 monopoly game came out so many versions have been created. The best of them all was probably Junior Monopoly with all the fun candy and Ferris wheels. Ever since it was created in 1933, 250 million boxes were sold. The rarest versions are collector’s items today and sell for $146,500.
Monopoly# Original Editions
My Little Pony Dolls
In the ’80s and ’90s, every little girl loved playing with these pony manes sold fro $13. Back then they were boosting in the market and today they are worth quite a ton. The original editions, with its box, earn you nearly $900!
My Little Pony Dolls
Barbie Golden Dream Motorhome
Not only was barbie itself a huge hit in the ’90s but of course Barbie needs her motorhome! This was a huge advance from normal dollhouses because now young kids could expand their creative edge and storytelling abilities. Mattel has produced many update versions but if you happen to have the vintage edition in perfect condition, then you may be able to get yourself over $300! This one may be more difficult to part with but not a bad gain to receive.
Barbie Golden Dream Motorhome
Teddy Ruxpin
This bear is an all-time classic! It was even able to read you bedtime stories when your parents were too busy. This concept has been more updated and every generation will experience something as incredible as this! Original versions are difficult to find but collectors go crazy when they find one and are willing to pay over a grand to get their hands on one.
Teddy Ruxpin
Transformers Action Figures
Priced at $20 initially, Transformers are still popular with very updated details. The original model was so unique and nothing anyone had seen before. This toy even led to the movie franchise that now has nearly 50 films. Vintage figures are not worth over thousands of dollars so hold on to them!
Transformers Action Figures
Lego Trains
What began as a simple set of blocks 70 years ago has transformed into an upgraded and marvelous toy for all young kids. The original High-Speed City Express Train from the ’80s is worth over thousands of dollars. They are an exciting memory for adults who once had them and are quite a timeless toy.
Lego Trains
Eternia Playset
In the 1980’s “He-Man” was a hit comic book and TV character, and surprisingly he has a strong fan base still today. This $30 game was was something that will never be forgotten. With recreated versions of the monsters and heroes from the cartoon, children felt like they were part of the experience. Today, collectors will even pay $3,000 for this set and it makes sense!
Eternia Playset
G.I. Joe
We surely could not have made this list without including G.I. Joe! This classic American toy was created in 1964 and a little boy was rushing to get one! Today this item is legendary and the original was sold for $17,500. Some versions for $10,000, but the most important is the very first prototype, which is worth $200,000! This doll created a franchise and there are movies based on G.I.Joe as well as new models being made.
G.I. Joe
Thundercats Thunderwings Lion-O Action Figure
The once hit show of the ’80s called, Thundercats, produced many toys at the time. Today these items are very nostalgic for fans of the former show. While not everyone knows what a Thundercat is, the focus is more so on the resale price! Original, boxed figures can sell for nearly thousands of dollars, some even $7,000! This is crazy since they were originally sold for $15.
Thundercats Thunderwings Lion O Action Figure
Legos 1st Edition Millennium Falcon
Legos are an item we are all familiar with and simply adore. We can all relate to those afternoons we spent imagining what to make with these buildings and simple snap-on blocks. With advances, the Lego company had some upgrades of its own. The limited-edition boxes are not as common now and they are increasing in value rapidly! Today the star wars version is nearly worth $4,000!
Legos 1st Edition Millennium Falcon
Megatron Gun
While transformer items are worth a lot on their own, but so is the associated merchandise! The Megatron gun is now worth nearly $4,000 and this will make you happy to have spent that $20 on the original. However, that is if it’s in the original box!
Megatron Gun
Pound Puppies
These cute stuffed animals used to be the craze everyone was talking about, bringing in $300 in sales. The product even led to the start of a TV show that lasted two years. After these upgraded versions were made, but if you happen to still have one of the originals you may make a fortune, even close to $5,000!
Pound Puppies
Nintendo Game Boy
The Nintendo was THE item of the ’90s that changed the use of big bulky consoles to a more simple gadget with more games you could handle, and it was handheld! When it first came out it was sold with Super Mario Land or the famous Tetris game but the later version was Game Boy Color. If you’re someone who holds on to your belongings and happens to have one of these lying around then you may make up to $550!
Nintendo Game Boy
Vintage Care Bear Dolls
Originally sold for $2, Carebears were a delightful cartoon and stuffed animal to have. With each stomach having its scent, you learned about their personalities. Many films have been produced based on these characters and limited editions may even be worth over $7,000!
Vintage Care Bear Dolls
Lionel’s Pennsylvania “Trail Blazer” Train Set
Even before the Lego Train made its debut, there was Lionel’s Pennsylvania “Trail Blazer” Train set that came out in the 1930s’. Nowadays this has been replaced with fancier versions but we have a special place in our heard for this historic item. Many would agree and are willing to pay $250,000 for this item once priced at $150!
Lionel’s Pennsylvania “Trail Blazer” Train Set
Garbage Pail Kids’ Cards
Remember the ’80s when Garbage Pail Kids collectible cards every cabbage patch kid lover needed to have. Today they are all over the internet and owning won but win you over $1,000, especially if you have the “Adam Bomb” card.
Garbage Pail Kids’ Cards
Beanie Babies
Beanie babies were the stuffed animal to have if you grew up in the late ’80s, early ’90s. Back then, only 2,000 royal blue “Peanut” elephants were created with a darker color because of a manufacturing error. Today this error is now the most collectible Beanie Baby made and is worth nearly $5,000.
Beanie Babies
Monopoly
An original version of the 1933 Monopoly game was sold in 2011 for $146,500 at Sotheby’s auction house. This was double the estimated price and today even vintage versions sell for over $3,000 and limited editions are worth hundreds.
Monopoly
Action Comics
The comic that first brought Superman to the world is now worth $3.2 million given its unique content. Also, there are less than 50 existing around the world so it makes sense it’s the most expensive comic book ever sold on eBay.
Action Comics
Wun-Dar He-Man: Prices Vary
The bulky action figure is also known as naked-with-a-loin-cloth He-Man was a frequent giveaway along with Wonder Bread in the 1990s. To those who saved this are quite lucky because your love for wonder bread may bring you something successful in the future. Some are sold for close to $500.
Wun Dar He Man# Prices Vary
Fisher Price’s Push Cart Pete
Mint condition vintage Fisher Price toys may just make you a mint. This 9-inch toy, made in 1936 is estimated to be worth $3,000, this is quite impressive considering it was originally sold for 50 cents.
Fisher Price’s Push Cart Pete
First Edition of ‘Where the Wild Things Are’
Back in 2012, a first edition, signed version of the classic children’s book by Maurice Sendak sold on Abebooks for $25,000. The book was especially exceptional because it was in exceptional condition, which is rare for children’s books.
First Edition Of ‘Harry Potter And The Sorcerer’s Stone’
First Edition of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”
J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter was originally published in 1998 and it was the first editions that set the stage for the Harry Potter Phenomenon. Today these vintage editions have sold for nearly $6,500. If you find a signed copy then you have hit the jackpot because they can sell for $15,000!
First Edition Of ‘Harry Potter And The Sorcerer’s Stone’
Mario Kart
One of the most adored and popular games of the Nintendo was known as Mario Kart. Kids would gather together fighting to be Yoshi. Today the game that taught us how to drive sold for around $460-$675!
Mario Kart
Jurassic Park Action Figures
Steven Spielberg’s 1993 film that focused on a theme park gone wrong was a huge hit back then and remains today. Since the film launched, a lot of merchandise was creates based on the film. Today the original ’90s action figures can be worth thousands of dollars if they are in good condition. In particular, T-Rex is the most desired one and is listed at $2,800.
Jurassic Park Action Figures
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Action Figures
In 1984 these comic book characters made an appearance in half a shell. They were so popular that they got their series in 1987. Every birthday party in the ’80s was the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle theme. Today mint condition versions of these figures sell for around $400-900.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Colorforms
Today adult coloring books remain extremely popular so it makes sense that vintage Colorforms, are in high demand today. There are many sold on Toyhelper for around $250. A full set could be worth $360.
Colorforms
Jem and the Holograms Dolls
Young girls growing up in the ’80s know this cartoon rocker all too well. Today these dolls are sold for outrageous prices like $675! Even the accessories and related toys are selling for high prices.
Jem And The Holograms Dolls
Playmobil
When you think of your childhood and Playmobil comes to mind, then you were born in the ’90s. This 1995 Victorian Dollhouse is a valued throwback piece and is listed at $1,000.
Playmobil
Digimon
In 1997 the virtual monsters were first made and became increasingly popular after their animated series and video game followed. Today, mint condition versions can sell for over $100 and Digimon cards are also very valuable.
Digimon
Magic
This former popular fantasy card game could be worth a fortune today if you happen to have the entire collection. Not only have collections sold for tens of thousands of dollars, but rare and unique cards have gone for nearly $87k!
Magic
Boba Fett Action Figure
This franchise is so popular that vintage Star Wars products may be worth some of the highest prices. Boba Fett is one of the most loved action figures, and a mint version can be worth nearly $32,000.
Boba Fett Action Figure
Vintage Rainbow Brit Doll
How can we ever forget the theme song from the animated TV series about Rainbow Brite and her friends the Color Kids, who’s mission was to preserve the color around the world. Today these dolls are worth nearly $1,000.
Vintage Rainbow Brit Doll
Happy Meal Toys
McDonald’s Happy Meals have a reputation for making children smile when accompanied by their toys. These have been around since 1979 and are little pint-sized play items. You can find collectibles like these Disney themes characters for close to $300.
Happy Meal Toys
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Toy
Nobody can forget the adored alien creature from the 1982 movie E.T. For those lucky children who snagged a life-size E.T toy then you’re in luck because today it could be worth $700 to $900.
E.T. The Extra Terrestrial Toy
Batmobile
Everyone knows who Batman is and we’re at some point in your life you were a fan. But where would Batman be without his signature batmobile? This vintage batmobile from the ’70s is extremely valuable today and could sell for $850.
Batmobile
Red Power Ranger
The Power Rangers were once the biggest thing and everyone had their favorite color at one point. The mega-size version of the Red Power Ranger came out in 1994 and has increased in value ever since. Today it’s selling on eBay for around $500.
Red Power Ranger
Ghostbusters Firehouse and Vehicles
While you may not be able to visit New York to see the real Ghostbusters firehouse, you can get your rendition straight from the film. This is if you’re willing to spend $700 on it.
Ghostbusters Firehouse And Vehicles
Kermit the Frog
Who didn’t watch the muppets? We all know and love Kermit The Frog, but some of us are the lucky ones who have a vintage doll lying around. Today, Jim Henson’s 1976 toy is on sale for $133.
Kermit The Frog
Holiday Hero Buzz Lightyear
In 1998 almost every child wanted this Buzz Lightyear figure for Christmas. If your parents loved you enough to spoil you with this toy then you better appreciate them because today it is worth around $400.
Holiday Hero Buzz Lightyear
Cabbage Patch Kids
We didn’t forget about cabbage patch kids who once sold for $25 in the ’70s. Today they are known as one of the longest-running dolls sold in America. They even inspired the creation of a cartoon. They are usually found at toy stores but vintage dolls have increased in value and one was just posted for about $3,000 online!
Cabbage Patch Kids
Skip It
We all remember the famous skip-it commercials from the 1990s that were filmed at Ravinia elementary school in Highland Park, Illinois. These commercials made the toy such a success and kids around the world had to have it. Today you can still buy this item, but the interest is more towards electronics. Collectors will buy your vintage skip-it for around $120.
Skip It
Moon Shoes
Although they have a weird look, moon shoes give off the ambiance that you are walking on the moon. They have built-in trampolines that make you feel like you are walking on the moon! They first came out in the 1950s and were very popular till the 90s. A vintage pair can sell for hundreds on eBay, especially when they are in perfect condition.
Moon Shoes
Skeletor Action Figure
If you grew up in the 80s then you were a fan of the Masters of the Universe franchise in 1982. Everyone went crazy for the lead man He-man, but the enemy Skeletor is worth the big money. Today, collectors are willing to pay as much as $1,650 for a Skeletor action figure in its original packing.
Skeletor Action Figure
Stamps
Today many rare stamps from the ’90s are regularly traded for high prices. In 2006, a sheet of Bugs Bunny stamps sold for $90, and a set of 1992 Junio Duck Stamps sold for nearly $995! Wow, who knew stickers were so valuable.
Stamps
Barbie Motor Home
At one point, motor homes were the coolest thing around and it was all about the incredible invention of a house and the car all in one. Mattel noticed this fascination and decided to start making moto homes for Barbie. Today you can sell your unboxed motor home for nearly $200.
Barbie Motor Home
Baby All Gone
Back in the day Baby, All Gone dolls were part of a collection of dolls called Baby Alive Dolls. The whole concept was that you could feed them and change the diapers like you would with a real baby. Today the vintage ones go for nearly $150.
Baby All Gone
Talkboy
The Talkboy is a handheld voice recorder manufactured by Tiger Electronics in the 1990s. This product was created specifically for the franchise film Home Alone 2: Lost In New York. Today, the tape recorder can sell for well over $200.
Talkboy
Lego C3PO
The adorable little LEGO C3PO is one of the most valuable items made from plastic that you could ever own. The toy is extremely rare because not many were made and today they are worth as much as $3,200!
Lego C3PO
Panic Restaurant
In the early ’90s creation, Panic Restaurant was a game about battling evil chickens and pizzas. The creator of the restaurant had to navigate as his restaurant was after him. Today it is worth nearly $500.
Panic Restaurant