The toys, books, and games we grew up with were more than just things; they were part of who we were. Now, as adults, many of those childhood treasures have gained value, both in our hearts and on the market. This article looks back at those iconic items we once owned and would spend big bucks to own again.
Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls
Cabbage Patch Kids dolls were first released in 1978 and quickly became a childhood must-have. These round-faced, soft-sculpted dolls came with adoption certificates, making them feel extra special.
The original dolls from the early years are worth a lot of money today. Rare editions like the 1985 James Dudley or 1981 Little People Blonde Girl are highly collectible. Depending on their condition, they can sell for $1,000 to over $3,000.
Stretch Armstrong
Stretch Armstrong, the famous rubber toy from the ’70s and ’80s, was a source of endless fun for kids. They would pull, twist, and tie him up into knots, and he always returned to his original shape—until he eventually wore out.
If you still have one in pristine condition, especially with its original box, it could be a collector’s dream and fetch a significant price today.
Masters of the Universe action figures
All ’80s kids will remember Masters of the Universe action figures. The key characters have become collectibles now. While He-Man can fetch between $200 and $500, Skeletor has become the real treasure, with collectors willing to pay $1600.
Figures in mint condition, especially rarer ones like Scare Glow, can fetch between $200 and over $1,000. Unopened ones with original packaging are worth even more.
Game Boy
The Game Boy was developed by Nintendo and launched in 1989. This handheld game console
defined gaming for a generation. If you grew up playing Pokémon and other classics like Donkey Kong, you know how enjoyable these games were.
Now, decades later, original Game Boys are prized collectibles. Working models in good condition can fetch up to $250, while pristine versions with original packaging might sell for as high as $800. And if you’re lucky enough to own the ultra-rare gold-plated, diamond-encrusted edition, its value could soar to an astonishing $25,000.
Tamagotchis
Tamagotchis were more than just keychains; they were a lifestyle in the ’90s. Many kids spent hours feeding and cleaning these virtual pets and formed bonds with them.
The first-edition Tamagotchis from 1996 are now in high demand. Depending on their condition, they can sell for $100 to $300, while sealed, mint-condition versions can go for as much as $800.
My Little Pony Toys
It’s hard to believe, but those My Little Pony toys you adored as a kid could now be worth a small fortune. Vintage ponies from the early ’80s can sell for around $900, especially if they’re in excellent condition with smooth manes and intact symbols.
And those rare ones, like Flutter Ponies or the mail-order exclusives you might’ve begged your parents to get, can fetch over $2,000. If you held onto your favorite pastel ponies, they might turn your childhood memories into a collector’s dream.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Action Figures
If you grew up battling with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures, you’re not alone. They were a cornerstone of childhood fun in the late ’80s and beyond.
Original figures like Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Shredder are now highly collectible, with unopened ones selling for $100 to $500. And if you were lucky enough to snag a rare figure like Scratch the Cat, you could be looking at over $1,000 for it in pristine condition.
Lite Brite
First launched in the late ’60s, Lite-Brite continued to captivate kids well into the ’80s and ’90s. The toy had pattern sheets that let you make everything from cartoon characters to abstract designs.
There is a huge demand for vintage sets, with working ones valued at $100 to $250 and sealed editions fetching over $500. If your Lite-Brite is still intact, it might be worth a small fortune.
Hot Wheels
Hot Wheels may have started as affordable, pocket-sized fun, but now, these tiny cars have become a big deal in the world of collectibles. Some rare models have skyrocketed in value over the years.
The 1969 Volkswagen Beach Bomb prototype, famous for its surfboards and unique design, is one of the most prized collectibles, valued at around $150,000. Modern Hot Wheels Treasure Hunt cars, released in 1995, are also popular among collectors.
Power Rangers
Power Rangers action figures were a must-have for every fan in the ’90s, making the franchise a pop culture icon. While most Power Rangers figures don’t fetch high prices today, rare editions like the Lost Galaxy Deluxe Gold Galaxy Megazord can cost as much as $1,400.
Other collectibles, such as the 1993 Carrier Zord Titanus, can be worth $300. If you’ve held onto any Power Rangers toys, now might be the perfect time to see if they’re a treasure in disguise.
Romper Room Jolly Chimp
The Romper Room Jolly Chimp, with its cymbal-clapping antics and toothy grin, was a mix of charm and creepiness that delighted kids in the ’70s. Originally made in the ’50s, it even became a pop culture icon and appeared in horror films.
Collectors value these quirky toys highly, especially if they still work. A functioning Jolly Chimp can fetch several hundred dollars, while those with original boxes or rare features might be worth four figures.
