Who has never dreamed of discovering a hidden treasure in their own home? This may be the case if you have kept your old childhood toys. Indeed, some of them may be worth a small fortune today.
In this article, we'll explore the fascinating world of vintage toys and their potential for unexpected value. Whether you're an avid collector or simply curious, prepare to be surprised by what these items from the past can yield. SO, Are you ready to dig through your attic to see if you have any hidden treasure ?
Furbys: interactive toys that are worth gold
Launched at the end of the 1990s, Furbys quickly won the hearts of children and collectors. These interactive toys, capable of learning and communicating, were sold for around thirty euros when they were released.
Over time, their value skyrocketed. For example, a 1998 Furby in mint green sold for almost US$5,000 in 2019.
Today, an original Furby still sealed in its box can fetch more than 700 eurosmore than twenty times its initial sale price.
Polly Pocket and Hot Wheels: miniatures worth a fortune
Polly Pockets, small dolls housed in compact boxes, and Hot Wheels, miniature cars with varied designsmarked their era. Today, these toys are real treasures for collectors.
A Polly Pocket can fetch between 400 and 500 euros on the online market. As for Hot Wheels, some rare pieces like the “Pink Rear-Loading Volkswagen Beach Bomb” can exceed $100,000. These nostalgic objects have therefore seen their value explode, delighting enthusiasts and investors.
Game Boy and Tamagotchi: the rise of vintage portable games
The Game Boy, Nintendo's portable console, and the Tamagotchi, virtual pet, marked the 90s. Their popularity was due to their portability and innovative gameplay.
Today, these nostalgic objects are highly sought after by collectors. A Game Boy with Tetris in its original box can reach almost 2000 euroswhilea new Tamagotchi in its box can be resold for more than 300 euros.
The vintage trend has increased the value of these toys, now considered valuable collectibles.
Pokémon cards: when nostalgia becomes an investment
Pokémon cards, emblematic of the 1990s, have become valuable collectibles. Some people are willing to trade real estate for original versions of these cards.
In January 2021, 103 cards from the 1999 first edition reached impressive prices. To identify rare cards, just look at the symbol in the right corner: one star, three stars or no star indicates highly sought-after cards.
In addition, old cards and those with a serial number where the first digit is higher than the second are particularly valuable.
The influence of condition and original packaging on the value of toys
The value of retro toys is determined by several factors, including the state of conservation and the original packaging play a preponderant role.
A toy in perfect condition, still in its original packaging, can see its value increase considerably, sometimes to unexpected amounts. Collectors, always looking for rare and well-preserved piecesare ready to invest high amounts to acquire these objects.
Growing interest in retro toysfueled by a fashion for nostalgia and the search for childhood memories, has led to a significant increase in their value. So, for some collectors, a well-preserved old toy can be a more profitable investment than a gold bar.
