The Growing Popularity of Vintage Toys: What To Collect Now
Vintage toys are making a huge comeback, and if you’ve ever wondered what to collect now amidst the growing popularity of vintage toys, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a seasoned Geek or just starting your collection, now’s a great time to dig in and find some gems.
Let’s dive into some top picks to keep an eye on.
Model Trains and Hot Wheels
Model trains hold a special place among vintage toys, with many popular model toy trains for collectors fetching high prices. These trains not only offer a glimpse into the past but also showcase intricate designs and craftsmanship.
Hot Wheels cars share a similar appeal. The classic “Redline” Hot Wheels, when in pristine condition, routinely break records with collectors. Like trains, not every car is valuable, so do a bit of homework before investing.
Star Wars Action Figures
Star Wars toys, particularly those from the Kenner line, remain highly coveted. These figures are iconic, and their value grows with rarity and condition. From Luke Skywalker to Darth Vader, Kenner’s original releases helped define action figures for generations.
LEGO Sets
LEGO isn’t just for kids. Certain vintage sets, like the UCS Millennium Falcon, are extremely desirable. These sets combine nostalgia with the challenge of complex builds, making them attractive to collectors and builders.
Unopened sets from the ’80s and ’90s command high prices, so if you come across one, consider its potential worth.
Pokémon Cards
With Pokémon’s 30th anniversary, the spotlight is on rare cards, especially holographic ones from the original sets. These cards are much more than just childhood memories; they’re investment pieces.
The market is competitive, so it’s important to verify authenticity and condition. Some cards fetch thousands if graded well.
Consoles and Games
Retro gaming is more popular than ever, and many of these collectibles are worth digging out of the attic. Original Atari systems, Nintendo classics, and Sega Genesis units hold significant nostalgic value. And with Pokémon’s anniversary, Pokémon-themed editions of consoles have become highly sought-after.
Collectors often seek near-mint versions, but well-kept used items can still draw interest.
Vintage Board Games
Classic board games, such as early Dungeons & Dragons, Monopoly’s White and Black Box editions, and Dark Tower, have gained renewed collector interest. Their high-quality components, limited production runs, and licensing fees make these games extremely valuable.
Nintendo’s vintage board games also appeal to collectors, blending nostalgia with craftsmanship.
Masters of the Universe Toys
If you’re wondering what to collect now amidst the growing popularity of vintage toys, keep an eye out for limited-edition and themed items that tie into today’s pop culture trends. One standout is the resurgence of Masters of the Universe figures with the upcoming 2026 movie stirring excitement among collectors.
These figures, alongside other nostalgic lines, gain value quickly when connected to new media or anniversaries. Staying ahead by spotting these trends can turn your collection into something truly special.