For those unfamiliar, Teddy Ruxpin was a bestselling toy with young kids in the mid 1980s and early 1990s. This toy teddy bear actually talked to children, by means of a cassette player hidden in his back. This included singing and telling stories, which kids could read along with the bear. The cuddly nature and dazzling personality of these bears gave them popularity with many children across the country.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of the Teddy Ruxpin doll and discover what makes him so well-liked, both in his original introduction and today, as a popular collectible item. We’ll also discuss the monetary value of this collectible doll.
Exploring the History of Teddy Ruxpin – From an 80s Toy to a Modern Collectible
Teddy Ruxpin had motors to move his eyes and mouth, as well as a cassette player in his back where you could insert cassette tapes. As kids flipped through picture books, Teddy would read the stories to them from one of 60 story tapes. The bear also sings songs that go along with the stories. This unique toy could speak 13 languages.
In his first year in toy stores, Teddy Ruxpin made $93 million, which at the time was rare for new toys. He cost $70, which was a high price for its time. $70 in 1985 is about $159 today.
The Teddy Ruxpin toy has a live-action movie and a cartoon television series. He also had plenty of gear available, including sheets, wallpaper, picnic baskets, and beach balls. In 1987, the firm that created the Teddy Ruxpin toy went bankrupt, and the bear disappeared for a while. This classic toy made a fresh appearance years later, when a new version was produced that retailed for about $100.
Teddy Ruxpin Value: How Much Is The Iconic Toy Worth Today?
Teddy Ruxpin dolls aren’t worth a ton on the secondary market. Older versions of the toy bear in their original packaging sell on eBay for as little at $95. You can even find versions of the doll from 1985 for just $30. The brand new, recently introduced Teddy Ruxpin doll is selling for $99.
FAQs
What is a Teddy Ruxpin doll worth today?
Vintage Teddy Ruxpin dolls sell from between $30 and $95 on sites such as eBay. A brand new Teddy Ruxpin doll retails for $99.
How much was the Teddy Ruxpin doll worth in 1985?
In 1985, the original Teddy Ruxpin doll sold for $70 each.
How old is the original Teddy Ruxpin?
The first Teddy Ruxpin was released in 1985, making it about 38 years old at the time of this article’s publishing.
Wade figurines are classic collectible items! Although Wade Ceramics, a company founded by Sir George Wade, produced quite a variety of Wade pottery and figurines, they are perhaps best known for their miniature figurines called Wade Whimsies. Given away for free in boxes of Red Rose Tea, these figurines – which were once free – have surged in value and popularity as collectible items.
These small Wade Whimsies figurines took on a wide variety of shapes, including animals, people, characters, and more. Over the years, they have become popular collectible items. Wade figurines are great entry level collector items, as most of them can be bought for a few dollars apiece. They are pretty, come in a wide variety of colors, and you can enjoy the thrill of trying to collect an entire set of them. Some figurines, however, are worth quite a bit more.
Read on to learn more about these special figures – their history, which ones are in demand, what makes them valuable, and how to properly care for them.
Introduction to Wade Figurines: History and Overview
For many years, Wade Ceramics, founded by Sir George Wade, produced a variety of different types of pottery. In 1954, it began producing Wade figurines. In 1967, it began a collaboration with Red Rose Tea.
This partnership allowed Red Rose Tea to place a small Wade figurine (also known as Wade Whimsies) in every box of tea that it sold. Over the years, Red Rose Tea gave away over 300 million Wade figurines in just the United States.
These cute collectible figures may have been given away, but now they can be worth quite a bit of money – anywhere between a few dollars apiece up to $700 or more.
Factors That Can Affect Wade Figurines Value
There are multiple factors that contribute to the value of Wade figurines, such as rarity, popularity, their condition, and whether or not you’ve collected the complete set. Read on for a look at each of these factors.
Rarity and Scarcity
As with most collectibles, an extremely rare or scarce Wade figurine has a higher value on the secondary market. Common Wade figurines are not worth as much as those that are harder to come by.
Popularity
The demand for a specific style of Wade figurine will have an impact on its value. Those that are popular and in high demand will fetch a higher price tag.
Condition
Condition is everything when it comes to Wade figurines. Chipped figurines have relatively little value. It’s important to keep your collectible figurines in good condition, with no chips or cracks.
Completing the Set
Wade figurines were often sets, such as the Noah’s Ark collection, which had a variety of animal figurines plus one of Noah and his wife; circus figurines; and figurines featuring North American animals. Collecting the complete set of any Wade figurines is sure to boost the resale value.
Wade Figurines Authentication: How to Identify Genuine Pieces
The best way to identify an authentic Wade figurine is to look for the Wade mark on your figurine. There are a few different ways that the figurines could be marked. They include “WADE,” “WADE ENG,” and “WADE ENGLAND.”
It is unknown why these different marks were applied to the figurines. There is no correlation between the type of mark used and the time period in which it was produced, making it difficult to identify vintage Wade figurines without conducting a bit more research.
Types of Wade Figurines
Wade Whimsies
Wade Whimsies are the miniature version of Wade figurines that were given away in boxes of Red Rose Tea. This was done in an effort to boost sales.
Vintage Wade Collectibles
Wade also produces a wide variety of larger ceramic figurines, which span a variety of characters, including Betty Boop, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the Michelin Man, and more.
Most Valuable Wade Figurines: Extremely Rare and Highly Sought-After Pieces
Figurines and other piece produced by Wade Ceramics are highly collectible. Here are some of the most sought-after and valuable Wade figurines!
Wade Figurines Nautical Series Complete Set of 12
This nautical-themed set includes a seahorse, starfish, boat, lighthouse, and more. This set is valued around $75.
Vintage Red Rose Tea Wade Figurines
Between the years of 1967 and 2018, miniature Wade Whimsies figurines came with every box of Red Rose iced tea. They were usually just one color, and collecting an entire set, such as the Animal Series, could give you a valuable collection, worth around $150.
The Bard of Armagh Wade Figurine
This figurine, valued at around $66, features an old man sitting on a bench playing a harp. This was originally made in Ireland.
Vintage Dancing Circus Poodle Wade Figurine
While a standard Wade Whimsies figurine only sells for a dollar or two, pieces made for specific markets – like the vintage dancing circus poodle – can fetch a bit more money. This figurine is valued at around $14.
Noah’s Ark 15-Piece Wade Figurines
This incredible set of Noah’s Ark figurines features a variety of animals, including birds, elephants, lions, horses, and more. There is also a mini figurine of Noah and his wife. An entire set is valued at around $180.
Vintage Red Rose Tea Gingerbread Wade Whimsy
This precious gingerbread figurine was part of a series of figurines based on popular nursery rhymes. Other figurines include the three bears, Goldilocks, and the old woman in the shoe. The price for the gingerbread man can range from $2 to around $200.
Wade Figurines Complete 12-Piece Calendar Series
This set features 12 figurines that are based after the 12 months of the year. The figurines are of Christmas trees, the Easter Bunny, a jack-o-lantern, a scarecrow, and more. The set is worth around $125.
Complete Camelot Series 5-Piece Wade Figurines
This set contains King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot, Merlin, and the Lady of the Lake, and each piece has more than one color. The set is valued around $70.
Complete Dinosaur Set 3 Wade Figurines
Valued around $175, this set of dinosaurs are cute and colorful.
Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs Wade Figurines
This stunning set features Snow White and each of the seven dwarfs from the original Disney movie. The set is valued around $108.
Dolly Varden Rare Wade Figurine
Based on a Charles Dickens character, this figurine features a lot of detail and multiple colors. It is valued around $180.
Betty Boop Limited Edition World Cup Wade Figurine
This cute collectible features the popular Betty Boop character with a soccer ball and draped in the flag of England. It is valued around $33.
Michelin Man Bibendum Complete Wade Figurines
This set of four features the Michelin Man. They are valued at around $350.
Wade Whimsies Farmyard Animals Figurines 1959
This set of five farmyard animals is valued at a whopping $564.
Wade Figurines Collecting Tips
How to Get Started With Wade Figurines Collecting
Wade figurines are a fun item to collect, and they are often available for a relatively low cost at antique stores and flea markets. You can also add to your collection by ordering them online from sites such as eBay, Etsy, or other online auction sites.
Tips and Strategies
When collecting Wade figurines, consider trying to complete various collections. For example, you could try to acquire the entire Noah’s Ark collection, or complete one of the animal sets of Wade Whimsies. A complete collection of a series is more valuable than individual items.
Preserving Your Collection
As chips and cracks significantly impact the value of your Wade figurines, be sure to keep them in mint condition. Display your figurines safely in a curio cabinet with a door to minimize the chance of accidental breakage. You can also keep them clean by periodically dusting them or cleaning them in warm, soapy water and drying them with a soft cloth.
Why Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy May Not Be Enough to Protect Your Wade Figurine Collection
If you have a large and valuable collection of Wade figurines, your homeowner’s insurance policy may not be enough to cover your collection. A homeowner’s policy typically covers your collection up to a certain dollar amount, and if your collection is worth more, then you may not be paid what it is actually worth.
What’s more is that your homeowner’s policy may only repay you for the actual cash value of your collection rather than its current market value. If your collection has appreciated in value, that coverage will not be enough.
Protect your collection of Wade figurines with a comprehensive policy designed by collectors, for collectors. Get started today by obtaining a free quote.
FAQs
Are Wade Figurines a good investment?
Wade figurines are fun to collect, but most of them are only worth a few dollars apiece. The most expensive pieces and sets are valued in the hundreds. In general, Wade figurines should be viewed as a fun way to start a collection, but they are not the best investment from a financial standpoint.
Are Wade miniatures worth anything?
While most Wade figurines are worth just a few dollars apiece, full sets and rare figurines can be quite valuable. Research your particular set online and see what it has sold for on auction sites such as eBay in order to determine its value.
How can I tell the age of a Wade Figurine?
There is no mark on a Wade figurine to indicate its age, which makes it hard to distinguish between vintage Wade figurines and newer versions. Your best bet is to research each individual piece online to learn more about its origin and when it was produced.
Can Wade Figurines be repaired if they are damaged?
You can repair your Wade figurines sometimes, but they will lose their value. Cracked or chipped figurines aren’t really worth much. Mint condition figurines are worth much more.
There may never have been a toy quite so popular and beloved as the teddy bear! Introduced in the early 1900s, these classic collectible stuffed animals have been well-loved by children since they were first popularized. Teddy bears are appealing to adults as well, both for their cuddly nature and their value as a collectible item.
Antique and limited-edition teddy bears can fetch high prices when sold at auction. With this blog post, we’ll dive into the history of the teddy bear, discuss some of the most expensive teddy bears ever sold, and learn what factors contribute to the value of a teddy bear as a collector’s item.
A Brief History of Teddy Bear
There are two people who can claim responsibility for the introduction of teddy bears.
The very first teddy bear was introduced in 1903 by Morris Michtom and his wife, Rose. Michtom was an American businessman/toymaker. He was inspired to create the bear by a political cartoon in The Washington Post in November of 1902. This cartoon depicted former US President, Theodore Roosevelt in an incident where he refused to kill an injured bear cub. Theodore Roosevelt’s nickname was “Teddy.” The teddy bears, which were jointed, were sold in Michtom’s candy store and were an instant success. In fact, they were so successful that Michtom closed the candy store and started Ideal Novelty and Toy company, which is still one of the largest toy companies in the world.
Around this time, German toymaker Steiff Firm started to make stuffed bears with arms and legs that could move. Richard Steiff got the idea for this new toy by watching bears performing in a circus. He debuted this toy in 1903 at the Leipzig Spring Toy Fair.
Today, teddy bears are a staple when it comes to stuffed animals, and most children have a stuffed teddy bear in their toy collection.
12 of the Most Valuable Teddy Bears
The most valuable teddy bears are those with a limited production run, those that are considered antiques, or those that commemorate a special occasion, such as a Happy Anniversary teddy bear. Here are twelve teddy bears that are worth thousands of dollars each!
Steiff-Karl Lagerfeld Teddy Bear
Produced in 2008 by Steiff, this bear was a limited edition piece. The bear wears Karl’s black suit and sunglasses and is worth around $3,687.
Gund Snuffles Teddy Bear
Gund is a popular manufacturer of teddy bears, and they created this one-of-a-kind bear for the 2010 American International Toy Fair in New York. This bear is worth a whopping $10,000.
Steiff Rod Teddy Bear PB28
The Steiff rod teddy bear was produced in 1904, and it was one of the first Steiff bears to be sold. The Steiff rod bear has metal rod joints, rather than the string-jointed bears that were being made by Steiff the year before. This antique bear is worth between $10,000 and $12,000.
Steiff’s Grandfather Bear
This giant bear was once used for display purposes. It is worth between $12,900 and $19,400.
Steiff Alfonzo Teddy Bear
This unique bear was commissioned by Duke George Mikhailovich of Russia to present to his daughter in 1908. It features red mohair fur, wood-wool stuffing, and an orange suit. In 1989, this bear sold for almost $16,000.
Steiff Diamond Eyes Bear
This bear, with eyes of diamonds and sapphires, was created to commemorate Steiff’s 125th anniversary. This Happy Anniversary teddy bear is worth around $35,000.
Steiff Centre-Seam Bear
Created in 1908, this cinnamon brown antique bear wears a silver brooch with the name “Will” printed on it. In 2004, this bear was auctioned for $37,000.
Steiff Hot Water Bottle Teddy Bear
This bear has the ability to hold a small hot water bottle in its front opening. They were first produced in 1907, but they didn’t catch on. Today, this rare find is worth around $40,000.
Steiff Harlequin Bear
This rare find features a colorful red harlequin pattern. The bear is worth around $60,000.
Steiff Titanic Mourning Bear
Manufactured in 1912, these were the first black fur Steiff bears. They were originally created as mourning gifts after the Titanic sunk. Only 665 of them were produced, and one of these bears sold for $136,000 in 2000.
Steiff’s Oldest Teddy Bear
Produced in 1904, this is the world’s oldest stuffed bear. It sold in Germany in 2000 for around $105,000.
Steiff Teddy Girl Bear
This bear was originally owned by Colonel Bob Henderson, who was gifted the bear at his birth in 1905. During his career with the British Army, he kept this bear by his side. In 1994, this expensive teddy bear sold at auction for a record $143,000.
What is a Valuable Teddy Bear and How Does it Differ from Regular Ones?
Not all stuffed bears are valuable. In fact, the average teddy bear doesn’t hold much monetary value – other than its appeal to the child that owns it. However, rare and antique teddy bears tend to be more valuable than others. Look for those by popular makers, such as Steiff, Gund, Ideal, Bruin, Chad Valley, Farnell, Merrythought, and Chiltern.
How to Determine Which Teddy Bears Are Worth the Most Money
There are certain factors that contribute to the value of these popular stuffed toys. Read on to learn more about how to value a teddy bear!
Condition
The condition of your bear has a huge impact on value. Most teddy bears were originally played with as toys, so it’s common that they show signs of wear. However, a worn teddy bear will fetch a lower price than one in mint condition.
Manufacturer
If the teddy bear was produced by a well-known manufacturer, it will hold more value. Popular manufacturers of teddy bears include those made by the German company, Steiff. Those produced by English Farnell are also quite valuable. Other manufacturers of note include Bing, Chad Valley, Chiltern, and Merrythought.
Labels and Tags
If the teddy bear has all of its original labels and tags, it will be worth more money. These are often removed by parents of the children who own the bear. Also, if the bear has its original packaging, it will be worth more money.
Size
Larger stuffed bears tend to be more valuable than smaller ones, although many collectors are interested in miniature bears.
Age
The older the bear, the more value it will typically have. Bears from the turn of the century, when they were first introduced, are quite valuable. Styles from the 50s and 60s are also desirable.
Rarity
As with most collectibles, the rarer a bear is, the more value it will hold.
Color
Bears with unique colors, such as cinnamon and black, are more in demand and have a higher value than those in the more common colors of brown, blonde, or gold.
Origin
If the bear can be traced back to its original owner, things that confirm ownership will increase the value. This includes invoices, old catalogues, or photos of the owner with the bear.
Appeal
Stuffed animals that have more appeal will be popular with collectors. Appeal is a very subjective trait, but bears that have a more pleasing appearance will be worth more money.
FAQs
What kind of teddy bear is worth money?
In general, the most valuable stuffed bear toys are either antiques that were produced by popular toy companies or limited edition bears.
How do I know if my teddy bear is valuable?
Do some research on your specific bear to see what it is selling for on online auction sites, such as eBay. You’ll also want to consider factors such as the bear’s age, condition, manufacturer, and rarity.
What is the most expensive brand of teddy bear?
Steiff is a company that has produced some of the most expensive teddy bears. Other top companies include English Farnell, Bing, Chad Valley, Chiltern, and Merrythought.
Is there a market for old teddy bears?
Yes, there is a market for old stuffed bears! There are plenty of collectors who would love to add a special antique bear to their collections.
Jim has been collecting military items for 60 years. It all began when he was 8 years old, when he was growing up on a Marine base. His father was a career Marine officer who experienced some horrific battles in World War II in the Pacific. He began collecting as a way to honor his father. The collection started with military medals from his father, as well as flags and swords from Japan that his father passed on to him.
Today, Jim – who has since served 30 years in the Marine Corps himself – has an extensive, nearly 2,000-piece collection of militaria. Most of this collection is very personal. Besides the things that he inherited from his father, he stayed in contact with friends of his father who passed on mementos, along with stories that went with them. “I keep the item with the story. The same holds true with everything I’ve collected over the years. Everything has a story, and everything is very unique and very personal,” shares Jim.
The most personal item in the collection is a Japanese sword that his father brought back from the war. “He wouldn’t tell me much about it,” said Jim. However, there was an article that fell from his notebooks many years ago from his father’s hometown of Peoria, Illinois. The article was a picture of him, and the headline read, “Japanese Who Swung Sword at Marine Lieutenant is Dead One Now.” His father nearly lost his life at the hands of that sword. Today the article and the sword hang on Jim’s wall.
The earliest items in the collection include a Civil War Marine lieutenant’s uniform from 1865. There is also a large set of national colors that flew on the union ship called the U.S.S. Pocahontas, which turned out to be a blockade ship. “This ship was instrumental in the bombardment of Fort Wagner in 1864,” explains Jim. “I got that flag directly from the family.”
A large part of Jim’s collection is recruiting posters, which hang along the walls of an 800 square foot room that is dedicated to the collection. “I’ve amassed a really nice collection of pristine Marine corps recruiting posters dating back to about 1913,” shares Jim. “They are all matted in museum glass and framed for display.” The display room also contains his organized collection displayed in cabinets.
Besides his father, Jim likes to honor all veterans with his collecting hobby. He often has veterans come through his display room for a walk through. “We split a beer and talk about our service,” explains Jim. “We have a lot of laughs and a lot of tears over the people we’ve lost. Freedom is never free!”
It may be hard to believe, but Furbies have become a hot collectible item! If you grew up in the 1990s, you may recall this interesting, furry creature. This robotic toy, which is described as looking like a cross between an owl and a hamster, was designed to speak in a gibberish language called Furbish. Over time, the Furby would start replacing its gibberish language with English. This was meant to mimic the process of learning the English language.
The toy was a huge fad in its heyday, and today, older Furbies are considered collector’s items. The common Furby is not necessarily worth big bucks, however. The most valuable are those rare or special edition Furbies, which may be more difficult to come by. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Furbies, the most valuable Furbies available today, how to value your own collection, and the best places to buy and sell Furbies.
The History of the Original Furby
Furbies first arrived on the scene in the fall of 1998. A three-person team is responsible for bringing this electronic toy to the market. They were David Hampton, Caleb Chung, and Richard C. Levy.
The inspiration for the Furby came from another popular 90s toy: the Tamagotchi. A Tamagotchi was an electronic pet that you would take care of digitally. In 1997, Hampton and Chung attended the annual Toy Fair trade show in New York. Hampton admired the Tamagotchi, but felt that the issue with this toy was the fact that you couldn’t pet it.
Together, Chung and Hampton embarked on a journey to design an electronic animal that you could pet. At first, the working name for this toy was “Furball.” Richard C. Levy came into the picture when Hampton and Chung were ready to license the concept. Levy had a background in marketing and in inventing toys and games, which made him a great addition to the team. His efforts led the team into a licensing deal with Tiger Electronics in 1997.
In October of 1988, Furby made its debut at FAO Schwartz toy store in New York. In 1998, over 1.8 million Furbies were sold. By the following year, that number grew to 14 million. The toy sold for $35, but resellers were selling them to customers for hundreds of dollars. In the first three years of the toy’s life, 40 million units were sold.
The fad lasted for a few years, but eventually, the popularity of the Furby began to wane. The toy experienced several failed rebooting attempts, until in 2012, the toy was successfully reintroduced with new capabilities. This version of the Furby included a unique factor: depending on how you raised your Furby, it could develop several different personalities. This edition cost $54 a unit.
Over the next few years, many iterations of Furbies were introduced, including the Furby Party Rocker, Furblings, baby Furbies, Furby Boom, and the most recent Furby, the Furby Connect.
Today, the earlier versions of Furby are still sought after, and there is quite a market for older Furbies.
Most Valuable Vintage Furbies and Their 2023 Market Value
You may be wondering: what is the most expensive Furby? Here are some of the most valuable Furbies that are worth money and their current market value.
Bejewelled Furby
This Furby is covered with 156 Swarovski crystals as well as diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. This limited edition Furby was sold exclusively at FAO Schwarz. Just five of them were produced and they are worth at least $100,000.
Emoto Tronic Furby & Furby Babies
The Emoto Tronic Furbies were nearly twice the size of the original. This design came with new features, such as the ability to communicate with other Furbies. Emoto Tronic Furby Babies were also introduced. These are now worth between $200 and $300.
Chicago Cubs Talking Furby
Introduced in 2000, this Furby is covered in the colors of the Chicago Cubs. This special edition Furby was given out to those who attended the game against the Detroit Tigers at Wrigley Field in June of 2000. They are worth between $250 and $400.
Kid Cuisine Furby
This beautifully colored Furby came with either blue or green eyes. Only 500 of this rare Furby are known to exist. One of them in a sealed box is worth around $2,000.
Hi-C Furby
This version of Furby was available through Hi-C contests. Only 5,000 of them exist, making them one of the rarest special edition Furbies. They are worth between $100 and $200.
Special Furby Angel
This Special Furby Angel is decked out with white angel wings and a golden halo. This version of Furby is one of the most popular special editions, and it is worth around $500.
Tropical Furby
This Furby sports sunglasses, sandals, and an orange aloha shirt. They were only sold at select Toys R Us stores, and they are worth between $150 to $200.
President Furby
President Furby sports a black suit, a U.S. flag, and a “Furby for President” badge. These special editions are worth $150 to $300.
Jester Furby
Jester Furby is dressed like a colorful clown. They were only sold at Target, and just 72,000 of them were made. They are worth between $100 and $300.
Racing Furby
The belly of this Furby looks like a checkered racing flag. They were sold exclusively at Kmart, and just 72,000 units were made. They are worth between $80 and $100.
Wizard Furby
The Wizard Furby is decked out in felt wizard robes and a pointy hat. Just 90,000 were produced, and they are worth between $120 and $300.
Royal Furby
Royal Furby is dressed in the trappings of royalty, including a gold crown and a fluffy royal robe. They are worth between $100 and $300.
How to Determine Furby Value and Rarity
When determining the value of your new or vintage Furby, there are several factors to keep in mind. Read on for a discussion of each factor and how they impact value!
Rarity
Rare or limited edition Furbies tend to be worth more than the common Furby. They are hard to come by, and many of them only had a certain amount produced. This increases the demand for them and adds to their value.
Condition
Furbies in excellent condition tend to be worth more than those that have some wear. This is true of most collectibles!
Original Packaging
If you have the original packaging for your Furby, that could definitely increase its value! The better the shape the box is in, the more value it will bring to your Furby. Unopened packaging will add a lot of value to your collectible furry friend!
Style
Specific styles of Furby can be worth a lot of money. They were often sold exclusively at a certain store or were produced in a limited run, which contributes to their current value as a collectible.
Where To Buy and Sell Furbies
You could sell your Furby to a vintage toy store or a pawn shop, but you most likely won’t get the full value for your vintage pet. This is because these type of shops are looking to resell, and they expect to make a profit from selling your toys.
The best way to get your Furby’s full market value is to sell it yourself on an online auction site, such as eBay. Do your research on your particular style of Furby and determine how much it is selling for. When you sell, be sure to provide clear photos and a complete description of your Furby and its condition.
FAQs
How do I know if my Furby is worth money?
The best way to find out the value of your Furby is to research that particular style on online auction sites and see what it is currently selling for. If you have a rare or limited edition Furby, it is likely worth some serious cash!
What was the rarest Furby?
The rarest Furby is the Rainbow Furby. Only three of these were ever produced! In 2000, Tiger Electronics and Post Consumer brands hosted a Furby design competition for children. The twelve best entries were voted upon and a winner, Rainbow Furby, was selected.
Why are 2005 Furbies so expensive?
Most Furbies that were produced in 2005 and later were more expensive than their earlier counterparts. This is because of the new robotic features that were introduced in the later Furbies.
Are old Furbies worth anything?
Older Furbies can be very valuable! It depends on a variety of factors, including the type of Furby and how rare or in demand it is.
If you grew up in the 1980s or 1990s, chances are you remember My Little Pony figurines – and perhaps you even had your own collection of these colorful toys, which were known for their long, luxurious little pony tails.
Today, My Little Pony figurines have become a treasured collectible. Join us as we dive into the history of these plastic toys, learn about some of the most valuable and rare ponies available today, and discuss what contributes to their value as a collectible item.
The History & Background of My Little Pony Figurines
Hasbro produced the first My Little Pony in 1982. There are four “generations” of these classic little ponies. This includes the original toys, called G1, which were produced from 1982 to 1992 in the United States. The second generation, G2, was introduced in 1997. They had new bodies that were more long-legged. Called “Friendship Garden” ponies, they didn’t sell well in the United States and today are not considered as collectible as other generations. The third generation, G3, was introduced in 2003 and it stayed true to the classic look of My Little Pony. The fourth generation, G4, are those that are now selling in stores.
My Little Pony toys stand about 5 inches tall and are made of colorful plastic. One of their unique features is their colorful hair, which you can run a small brush through. They come in a variety of styles, including Earth Ponies, Sea Ponies, and Flutter Ponies. You can also find Baby Ponies, Newborn Ponies, and Teeny Tiny Ponies.
My Little Pony toys are released in different sets that all have a common feature. Also available are My Little Pony books, games, puzzles, clothes, and other merchandise. 2010 saw the release of a My Little Pony cartoon series entitled, “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic.” This show introduced another generation of fans to the classic toy.
Top 8 Classic Treasures to Add to Your Collection: Most Valuable and Rare My Little Ponies Toys
When it comes to My Little Pony, there are so many different styles and colors of pony available on the market today, as well as ponies from different generations of pony. Here, we’ll discuss eight of the rarest ponies and their current market values.
Princess Pristina: Valued at $575, this turquoise pony has pink eyes and green hair. She originally came with a few accessories that included a clip-on crown, pink wand, and green comb.
Moondancer Unicorn: This cream-colored pony has purple eyes and red hair. This was a Canadian exclusive, making it somewhat rare. It is worth $578.
Argentina Novia Wedding Pony: This cream-colored pony has white hair and lavender eyes. It is worth $649.
Baby Splosh: This red pony with blue eyes and gold hair originally came with a green flotation ring to make the pony float. It is worth $757.
Sweet Scoops: This lilac-colored pony has pink eyes and pink hair. Originally sold for $8.50, this pony is worth $850 today.
G1 Medley: This turquoise pony with blue eyes and green hair is worth a whopping $925.
Baby Brother Sweet Celebrations Prototype: This blue pony has turquoise eyes and pink and green hair. It is worth $1,109.
Rapunzel: This pink, blue-eyed pony has luscious, long golden and pink locks. She is worth $1,550.
How to Identify and Authenticate a Vintage My Little Pony Figure/Memorabilia
There are several ways that you can identify a genuine My Little Pony from a fake, as well as distinguish a vintage My Little Pony from those belonging to later generations. Read on to learn how to identify and authenticate a vintage pony!
Check the Hooves
Your pony toys should have “Hasbro” printed on them, or else they are likely fake – unless they are a rare foreign pony. Some ponies in South America and Europe were created by other companies.
Use a Pony Identification Form
Filling out an identification form can help you find out if your pony is genuine or fake. You can also post a photo of your pony to the MLP Arena, an online message board.
Identifying a Vintage My Little Pony
First generation (G1) ponies are usually 5 inches tall, and babies are 2.5 to 3 inches. They usually have symbols printed on both sides of their bodies. They have large eyes with two eyelashes on top and two on the bottom. They have thicker bodies and if they have wings, the wings usually match their bodies.
Second generation (G2) ponies are larger than G1 ponies, with slim bodies, long necks, and knobby knees. On their hooves you will find molded fur. Their eyes have small plastic gemstones. They do not have bottom eyelashes.
G3 ponies are slightly shorter than a G1 pony, and they have a symbol printed on one side of their bodies. On one of their front hooves is a small heart and a magnet. They have round bodies, thin tails, and thick manes.
G4 ponies are the same height as G1 ponies, but they look different. They feature long legs and hooves with a bellbottom shape. They have large foreheads, ears, and eyes in various shapes. The eyes have two white dots in them, and they usually have many eyelashes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying or Selling a Rare My Little Pony Figure
You’ll want to avoid purchasing a pony toy that is a fake. The tips above should help you avoid this issue! When selling a My Little Pony, you’ll want to authenticate that your item is genuine and figure out which generation the pony is from. This will help you determine the selling price.
Before you sell ponies, you can also look up your specific pony on auction sites such as eBay to check what they are currently selling for. You’ll also want to consider whether your pony is in good condition. A mint condition pony will tend to sell for more, especially if it has the original box.
You can sell your My Little Pony on an auction site, such as eBay. eBay is a good choice if you want to sell fast, or are selling a large lot of ponies. You can also sell them on a message board such as MLP Arena. The advantage of selling on the message boards is that there are no fees charged for the sale.
FAQs
Which is the rarest My Little Pony?
The rarest pony is Rapunzel, which is a pink pony with blue eyes and long golden and pink hair. She is worth $1,550. She came with accessories that included a dark pink and dark blue barrette that says, “I LUV YOU” and a pink heart comb.
Are vintage My Little Ponies worth money?
Yes, vintage My Little Ponies can be worth money. Those from the original, first generation of ponies that were produced between 1982 and 1992 are usually worth the most. You’ll also want to consider whether the pony is rare or limited edition, which can add to its value.
How much is the most expensive My Little Pony?
One of the most expensive My Little Ponies is Rapunzel, which sold for $1,550.
What are the different kinds of My Little Pony available?
There are four generations of My Little Pony, and each generation has their own special variations. The ponies also come in a variety of styles, including Earth Ponies, Sea Ponies, and Flutter Ponies. You can also find Baby Ponies, Newborn Ponies, and Teeny Tiny Ponies.
McDonald’s Happy Meals are a big part of the childhood of many kids. Their immense popularity is not just because of the food; rather, it is due to the Happy Meal toys that come along with the meal.
Happy Meal toys have come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and colors over the years, from toys based on popular movies and tv shows, to Madam Alexander dolls, to Barbies, to toy cars, to miniature Beanie Babies, and much, much more! These toys have become a cultural phenomenon in their own right, and many of them fetch a pretty penny as collectors’ items on the secondary market.
Which McDonald’s Happy Meal toys have become valuable collectors’ items? Which will fetch the highest price in an online auction? In this blog post, we will explore the wide variety of valuable Happy Meal toys that have been produced over the years, their popularity, and their current market value.
A Brief History of Happy Meals and the Happy Meal Toy
The original McDonald’s Happy Meal was part of a marketing effort to win over children. In the 1970s, the fast food restaurant changed its store designs from red and white tiled buildings to brick. This change was not popular with children. Furthermore, competitors were appealing to children with gifts and special kids characters.
McDonald’s hired Bob Bernstein to help them win back the endorsement of kids. Bernstein was inspired by watching his child read the cereal box each morning while he ate his breakfast. He realized that kids enjoyed being occupied while they ate.
From this revelation, Bernstein and his team created a kids’ meal box for McDonald’s. The golden arches were the handles of the box, and there were puzzles, riddles, games, and comics on the outside of the box to engage kids. A surprise toy was also included in this meal box, which was dubbed the Happy Meal. After several successful test runs, McDonald’s introduced the Happy Meal nationally in 1979.
Eventually, the primary appeal of the Happy Meal was the toy. Over the years, McDonald’s partnered with Hollywood studios and major toy manufacturers to provide exciting toy options for children. Over the years, toys have included Beanie Babies, Transformers, Power Rangers, and many Disney characters. Today, many of these vintage Happy Meal toys are valuable and sought after as collectibles.
Top 15 Expensive McDonald’s Toys Worth Money
Vintage McDonald’s toys can fetch a high price on the market today. Here is a list of the top fifteen most valuable Happy Meal toys.
Hot Wheels
McDonald’s partnered with toy car giant Hot Wheels in the early 80s to provide the toy cars in their Happy Meals. Today, these McDonald’s Hot Wheels cars are a popular collectible, selling for around $50 each.
101 Dalmatians
In 1996, McDonald’s released 101 Disney dog figurines based on the popular Disney movie. A full set is worth at least $600.
Power Rangers
The Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers were a cultural phenomenon in their own right, and McDonald’s capitalized on this by including them in the Happy Meals. A complete set of the Power Rangers toys is worth at least $500.
Inspector Gadget
This toy based on the popular character Inspector Gadget was a hit in the mid 90s. Today, it is worth around $500.
Tarzan Set
The full set of these figures, based on the Disney movie Tarzan, included Tarzan, Jane, Terk, Tantor, Porter, Kala, Clayton, and Sabor. The set is worth around $500.
Fraggle Rock
This set originally included Gobo, Red, Mokey, and Wembley Fraggle, all riding different cars. A set of these four sold in 2021 for around $460.
Mario
Some Happy Meals featured the popular video game characters Mario and Luigi, as well as Princess Peach, Yoshi, Bowser, and more. The full set of eight is worth around $430 or more.
TY’s Teenie Beanie Boos
This set of TY Teenie Beanie Boos isn’t worth as much individually, but a full set of these bears is worth over $400.
Underwater Monsters by Diener Keshi
These are some of the earliest Happy Meal toys ever made, and the full set of seven is worth around $370 or more.
Robots by Diener Keshi
Another earlier Happy Meal set, these robots are worth around $370 for the full set.
General Lee, Dukes of Hazzard
This set of stickers and cars is worth around $150 assembled and over $300 in its original condition.
Clone Wars Happy Meal Box
Star Wars fans enjoyed this collectible Happy Meal box, introduced in 2008. The box alone is worth about $50.
LEGO Bionicle
A full set of these six plastic figurines is worth around $250.
Snoopy
The classic Snoopy toys were released to celebrate McDonald’s 50th anniversary. The set included eight characters and is worth around $185.
Astroniks
The creatures are similar to Smurfs, and they were first introduced in 1975. The full set of 14 is worth around $185.
Where to Buy and Sell Old McDonald’s Toys That Have High Value?
If you are looking to buy vintage McDonald’s toys, you may have good luck at vintage toy stores, antique stores, and thrift stores. If you are looking for something specific, you can always search online on auction sites such as eBay for that item.
When looking to sell, your best bet is to sell your toys yourself on eBay, or even Etsy. Selling the toys yourself is the best way to obtain their full value. If you sell to a vintage toy store or another type of seller, they will undercut you on price because they are looking to make a profit by reselling your toy.
FAQs
What McDonald’s toy is worth the most?
Among the most valuable McDonald’s Happy Meal toys are the Hot Wheels cars that were introduced in 1983. The full set is worth around $875.
How much do McDonald’s toys sell for?
McDonald’s Happy Meal toys can sell for anywhere from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. It really depends on the toy, its age, its condition, and the demand for that particular toy. You can look up your specific toy of interest on an auction site such as eBay to see what it is currently selling for.
How much does a McDonald’s toy cost?
A brand new McDonald’s Happy Meal toy comes free with the purchase of a Happy Meal, but as these toys age they can become popular collectible items, and therefore worth much more.
Coca Cola bottles are intended for one-time use, but their classic and instantly recognizable shape has made them a popular collectible item. Coca Cola is well aware of the impact of packaging on sales, and for this reason they have always put thought into the design of their bottles.
Perhaps the most popular Coke bottles of today are the glass ones, which are designed to look like the original vintage bottles. Vintage Coke bottles and limited-edition Coke bottles that were produced for a specific purpose tend to fetch a higher price on the collectibles market.
In this blog post, we will explore the history of Coca Cola bottles, which bottles have the most value as collectibles, and how to identify what makes a specific Coke bottle popular or valuable.
History of Coca Cola Memorabilia and How it Became So Valuable
The Coca Cola company has been around since the late 1800s. The bubbly beverage was initially bottled in Vicksburg, Mississippi in 1891, and the first bottle was sold in March of 1894. Prior to this, Coca Cola had always been sold in soda fountains and as a patent medicine.
The Origin of the Bottle
The first Coca Cola bottles were original Hutchinson bottles. They used a Hutchinson patent bottle that was used commonly for many types of soda and spring water during that time. Each bottle was marked with “Biedenharn Candy Company, Vicksburg, Miss.” There are two styles of Hutchinson bottles still around: one plain bottle, and one with Coca Cola script on the bottle.
After 1900, Coca Cola was bottled in a bottle with straight sides with a crown top. A “crown top” is a kind of bottle that has a lip, and the bottle cap is removed with a bottle opener. This style preserved the soda’s carbonation much better than the previous bottles, and can be found in a variety of colors of glass, including clear, amber, green, blue, and aqua. The amber colored bottle tends to be the most valuable today.
In 1913, Coca Cola decided it wanted its own, distinctive bottle to be more recognized by customers. By 1916, they had developed the contoured bottle. In 1960, this design was patented as a design that belonged only to Coca Cola. This bottle is also known as the “Mae West” bottle or the “hobble skirt” bottle. Early versions of these Coke bottles came in clear, blue, green, and aqua.
The Auction that Made History
In 2019, an extremely rare Coca Cola bottle sold at Morphy Auctions for $110,700. This bottle was from 1915, and was a prototype for the company’s curved bottle design. Eventually another style was chosen as the wide middle didn’t work well with conveyor belts. It wasn’t until 1917 that Coca Cola settled on its curved bottle design.
This Coca Cola bottle is considered highly collectible for its age and scarcity. Previous prototypes of this bottle were destroyed, making this bottle up for auction extremely rare. Similar bottles have sold for $240,000 at auction.
Where to Buy Vintage Coca Cola Bottles That Are Considered Collectibles
Looking to start a collection of Coca Cola bottles? Here are some places where you can find pieces to add to your collection!
eBay
Here you can find a wide variety of antique or vintage Coke bottles from all over the world. This includes some very rare and valuable finds.
On Etsy, you can find a wide selection of antique and vintage bottles from the history of the Coca Cola company, including some extremely rare bottles.
What Makes a Coke Bottle Valuable?
There are several factors that contribute to the value of a Coca Cola bottle. Read on to learn more about each!
Age
Antique or vintage Coca Cola bottles tend to be more valuable than modern styles, which are easier to find. There is some debate on what is considered an antique when it comes to Coke bottles. Some consider 50 years antique while purists may consider 100 years antique.
Condition
As with any collectible, the condition of the Coca Cola bottle itself will impact its value. Look for versions without chips or scratches. The original label being intact is a great value add!
Rarity
Rare bottles are more valuable than common bottles. Some of the most valuable bottles are prototypes that were only produced in a limited run, making them hard to come by today.
Limited Edition
A commemorative Coke bottle that was printed to memorialize a special occasion tends to become more valuable as time goes by.
10 of the Most Valuable Collectible Coca-Cola Bottles
Certain Coca Cola bottles have been known to fetch a high price at auction. Let’s take a look at ten of the most valuable Coca Cola bottles ever sold and how much each one sold for.
Coca Cola Root Glass Co. Modified Prototype Bottle: This prototype is the original model used for the patent in 1915. It sold for $240,000.
Coca Cola Root Glass Co. Modified Prototype Bottle (2): This early Coca Cola bottle was a prototype of the design used to this day. It sold for $108,000 at auction.
Unopened Coca Cola Bottle: This bottle from 1974 was unopened when it sold on eBay in 2020 for a whopping $29,900.
French Wine Coca: There are just three of these special bottles in existence! This cool bottle, with the label still partially intact, sold for $5,000.
Dallas Cowboys’ Coke (Limited-Edition): This unique, limited-edition bottle features the Dallas Cowboys. It sold for $5,000.
Hutchinson Coca Cola Bottle: This straight-sided Hutchinson style bottle had a metal stopper originally. It sold for $4,000.
Thailand Coca Cola ACL Bottle: This bottle features the brand’s name embossed on the bottle, and it sold for $3,350 in October of 2020.
Seoul Olympic Games Commemorative Bottle: This commemorative bottle even came with its own box! It was produced for the 1988 Summer Olympics in South Korea, and it sold in 2021 on eBay for $2,500.
1900s Coke Bottle: This early 20th century bottle was produced with the classic hobble skirt design and has a logo on the side. This bottle sold on eBay in 2019 for $2,375.
Chinese Coca Cola Bottle: This limited-edition Coca Cola bottle remains unopened and was made to celebrate the first McDonald’s opening in China in 1992. At the time of its sale, the bottle was in mint condition. It sold for $1,500.
FAQs
What is the most expensive bottle of Coke?
A Coca Cola Root Glass Co. Modified Prototype Bottle, a prototype of the original model used for the patent in 1915, sold for $240,000.
How much are old Coca Cola bottles worth?
The value of old Coca Cola bottles depends on a variety of factors, including age, style, rarity, and condition. Research your particular bottle on websites such as eBay or Etsy and see what it is currently selling for online.
How can you tell how old a glass Coke bottle is?
In general, you can tell by the style of the bottle. The earliest Coke bottles from the late 1800s and early 1900s were produced by a glass company and embossed with “Biedenharn Candy Company, Vicksburg, Miss,” and will often have Coca Cola script on the bottle. These are known as Hutchinson bottles.
Between 1900 and 1917, Coca Cola used their straight-sided soda bottles, which came in a variety of colors including clear, amber, green, blue, and aqua. The had a crown top, also known as a lip.
By 1916, the company developed its distinctive contoured Coke bottle. The early version of this bottle came in clear, blue, green, and aqua.
Talk to an expert or research your particular Coke bottle to learn more about its origins!
Mark Morgan has always been interested in collecting, starting with a collection of Smurfs that he had as a child. But he started seriously collecting in 1993. His girlfriend at the time worked at an antique store owned by her parents. Her father asked, “What’s the first thing you remember having as a kid?” Mark’s answer was “Pez dispensers.” Her father suggested that he start collecting them.
Mark began looking for Pez dispensers, but there were other toys that caught his eye, such as vintage Star Wars figurines that he had as a kid. “I started grabbing those,” he explains. “It turned into anything I could remember having as a child.”
Mark knew he was a collector when he started putting up display cases in his room at his parent’s house. The collection is special to him because of how diverse it is. It may have begun with Pez and Star Wars, but it has since grown to include a wide variety of toys, including G.I. Joe action figures, Shogun Warriors, lunch boxes, monster stuff, and Transformers. “It grew organically into the explosion that it is now.”
Mark doesn’t collect anything new. He focuses primarily on vintage toys, especially those from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. His favorite piece is the first Pez he can remember from his childhood. It is a Pez of a pilot, which his mother bought for him after a visit to the dentist. “My dad used to be a pilot – I think that’s why I picked it out.”
Mark’s Star Wars collection is notable because he has completed the set twice and is currently on his third time collecting the whole set. This time, he’s after the toys in their original packaging. “I’m getting pretty close to the end of that one!” he shares.
Overall, Mark’s collection has shot up in value over the years. There are items he’s paid $1 for that are now worth $1,000, as well as items he purchased for $100 that are now worth $600 or $700. “Everything I’ve purchased has all gone up in value,” he shares. The most valuable item is a Shogun Warrior Giant Robot that is worth around $2,500.
Today, the collection contains at least 20,000 pieces. Everything is on display in the basement of Mark’s home and grouped by the various toy lines. “I’m still collecting, and hopefully I’ll never stop!” shares Mark. “I like hunting for toys every weekend, trading with people, and selling here and there to fund my toy collecting habit. It’s always changing! That’s the fun part about it.”
For many little girls, Barbie dolls are an essential part of their childhood. Since coming onto the scene in 1959, this doll has become a popular and important toy worldwide. Countless variations of the Barbie doll have been produced over the years, from limited editions to promotional dolls and everything in between.
From the first Barbie doll to the more modern dolls, Barbie has held a wide variety of jobs, has had plenty of friends introduced, and has more accessories and clothes than can be counted. Barbie has even experienced several redesigns during the course of her life.
In this blog post, we will discuss Barbie’s history, her evolution, and the factors that can impact her value today.
Barbie doll and Ken doll
Introducing the 1960 Barbie Dolls
Barbie dolls were first conceived in the garage of Ruth Handler, a toymaker and the co-founder of Mattel, Inc., and her husband, Elliot. Ruth was inspired after watching her daughter, Barbara, play with flat paper dolls. She wanted to create a 3-D version of an adult doll who was career-minded.
The very first Barbie doll was named Barbie Millicent Roberts after Ruth’s daughter. She debuted at the New York Toy Fair under Mattel’s brand on March 9, 1959. Barbie first arrived in a striped black and white sleeveless one-piece bathing suit. She had a ponytail, bangs, blonde hair, and red lipstick. This Barbie doll sold for $3 a pop, with special accessories that could be bought for $1 to $5. In its first year, over 300,000 Barbie dolls were sold.
The Evolution of Barbie Dolls
Since her inception, Barbie has worked at over 200 different careers. She traveled to the moon in 1965, even before Neil Armstrong did. She has also been a doctor, a paleontologist, a rock star, a computer engineer, the President, and much more.
At first, the doll was available as either a brunette or a blonde, but in 1961, red hair was introduced. Also in 1961, the Ken doll came onto the scene. Ken Carson was named after designer Ruth Handler’s son.
In 1963, Mattel introduced Midge Hadley, Barbie’s best friend. In 1964, her little sister, Skipper, was introduced. In 1967, Twiggy was the very first celebrity to have a Barbie made to look like her. Many other celebrities would follow, including Audrey Hepburn, Diana Ross, Cher, and many more.
In 1980, African American and Hispanic Barbie dolls became available. Since then, over 40 different international Barbie dolls have been released.
In 2016, Mattel introduced Barbie Fashionistas. These dolls were intended to reflect diversity, and they came with four body types, seven skin tones, 22 eye colors, and 24 hairstyles.
Factors That Can Affect Your 1960 Barbie Doll Value
There are many factors that contribute to the value of your vintage or modern Barbie doll. They include the model, the condition, the presence of the original packaging, the accessories, the popularity, and the historical significance. Read on for discussion of each of these factors and how they impact value.
Model
Barbies have been made for a variety of purposes. There are limited edition Barbies as well as special designs made for promotions. Special edition Barbies tend to be worth more. As an example, the most expensive Barbie ever sold was a one-time-only edition that was auctioned off for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation fundraiser in October of 2010.
Some other expensive models include Stefani Canturi Barbie, which cost $302,500; Diamond Castle Promotional Barbie, which cost $95,000; and De Beers 40th Anniversary Barbie, which cost $85,000.
Rarity
The harder a Barbie doll is to come by, the more valuable it will be. We just discussed limited edition Barbies, which are valuable because of their scarcity. Also valuable are vintage Barbie dolls, which are typically harder to obtain than newer dolls.
Condition & Packaging
To get top dollar, a Barbie doll needs to be in excellent condition. The most valuable Barbie dolls are still in their original packaging, and the box is in mint condition.
Accessories
Many Barbies originally came with hair accessories and more. A Barbie doll will be worth more money if it has all of the original accessories that came with the doll when it was first sold.
Popularity
If a Barbie doll is super popular or in high demand, that doll will be worth more money. Sometimes, a Barbie can sell for an extremely high price at auction simply because a Barbie collector really wanted that particular doll.
Historical significance
Barbie dolls that have some sort of historical significance, such as dolls made to commemorate a specific occasion or those made in the likeness of popular historical figures, tend to be quite valuable.
How to Grade Authentic Collectible Barbie Dolls
When collecting Barbie dolls, there are multiple rating systems that can be used to identify both the rarity and the condition of the doll. These systems can help you identify an expensive Barbie from a regularly priced one. Read on to learn more about some of these systems!
Mattel’s Grading System
In 2004, Mattel created a four-tier structure to assist buyers with identifying collectible Barbie dolls. There are also books available that serve as guides to help you identify a rare or collectible Barbie doll.
Platinum: The rarest Barbie dolls are labeled platinum if they have less than 1,000 units produced.
Gold: Gold labeled Barbie dolls have less than 25,000 produced.
Silver: Silver labeled Barbie dolls have less than 50,000 produced.
Pink: Pink labeled dolls have no quota, which means that they are common and not rare at all.
eBay’s Grading System
eBay’s grading system rates Barbie dolls on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the worst and 10 being the best. There are also several helpful labels to identify collectible Barbies.
Hard to Find (HTF): This means that a doll is rare.
Modern Barbie: Barbies made after 1972 are considered Modern dolls.
Vintage Barbie: Dolls made before 1972 are Vintage dolls.
Original Swimsuit (OSS): This label is used for the original 1959 Barbie doll.
There are also four categories to describe the box condition for Barbie dolls:
Never Removed from Box (NRFB)
Mint in Package (MIP) or Mint in Box (MIB)
Mint No Box (MNB)
Near Mint (NM)
The Most Valuable Types of Barbie Dolls
The first Barbie doll from 1959, introduced in the New York Toy Fair, is the third most expensive Barbie worldwide. This vintage Barbie is worth around $8,000 in poor condition and $27,500 in mint condition.
Here are some important types of Barbies and the estimated Barbie doll’s worth:
Limited Edition Barbies ($1,000 – $7,000)
Holiday Barbies ($50 – $2,000)
Color Magic Barbie ($500 – $1,000)
Collectors Edition Barbies ($100 – $600)
Customized Barbies ($100 – $500)
Midge Barbie ($200 – $300)
How to Identify Barbie Dolls
How can you tell a genuine Barbie doll from a fake? Or vintage Barbie dolls from modern Barbies? There are several Mattel markings and other identifying factors that you can look out for. These can help you determine a Barbie doll’s value and age.
Markings & Stamps
Barbie dolls usually have a marking on their right hip. This includes the trademark, which shows the date that the doll was first patented or copyrighted. Any other markings found on the doll were used for assembly.
Feet and Hands
Vintage Barbie dolls typically have holes in the bottom of their feet. A “Made in Japan” or “Japan” stamp means the doll was produced between 1959 and 1972, making it a vintage Barbie doll. Later dolls were made in Mexico, Hong Kong, or Taiwan and are not vintage.
Also, earliest Barbies had fingers that were divided. After 1968, the fingers were not separated.
Hair Color and Style
A Barbie doll with its original hair color and style is much more valuable. Is the hair blond, brunette, red, or some other variation? The oldest Barbies were only available as blondes or brunettes, with red hair being introduced a few years later.
Neck Knob
The knob on the neck of your Barbie doll can help date the doll. Earlier models of Barbie had smaller knobs, and later Barbies have fuller faces.
Insuring Your Vintage Barbie Doll
If you own a collection of vintage or modern Barbie dolls, you’ll want to make sure that you have specialized collectibles insurance for greater peace of mind. Homeowner’s insurance may not offer adequate coverage for your collection, especially if your collection has appreciated in value. Get a free quote today to ensure that your collection is covered in the event of the unexpected.
FAQs
What makes 1960 Barbie dolls so valuable?
The original vintage Barbies from the 1960s are valuable today because they are in demand and rare. The first Barbie doll ever made can sell for $8,000 in poor condition and $27,500 in mint condition.
Are there any specific things I should look for when buying or collecting 1960 Barbie dolls?
Yes! Specific markings can help you identify Barbie dolls and what year they were produced. Look at the markings and stamps, the feet and hands, and the knob on the back of Barbie’s neck to help you determine when a doll was made.
Should I display my Barbie dolls or keep them in storage?
You can display your vintage Barbies. If they are in the original packaging, don’t remove the packaging. Display them in the box. You can purchase display cases for your dolls to protect them from dust and debris.
Can I increase or decrease my insurance coverage for 1960 Barbie dolls over time?
With Collectibles Insurance Services, you can make changes to your insurance policy at any time. We even offer an automatic monthly increase option to accommodate a growing or appreciating collection.
