Once seen as just toys or childhood fun, many items from the past are now turning into valuable collectibles. Whether it’s something you stashed in the attic or something you once begged your parents to buy, the nostalgic charm of these items has sparked a massive interest among collectors—and their prices are proof of that.

Let’s examine 6 collectibles that have drastically increased in value, showing that sometimes, holding on to the past literally pays off.

1. Star Wars Action Figures

These iconic action figures from the late 70s have become some of the most sought-after collectibles today. When the original Star Wars film hit theatres in 1977, it changed pop culture forever. With it came a wave of merchandise, including plastic figurines of Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, and Princess Leia.

A 1978 Luke Skywalker action figure with a double-telescoping lightsaber and in its original packaging recently made headlines for being valued between $12,000 and $18,000 at a Sotheby’s auction. Keep in mind, this toy originally sold for just $1.99.

So, if you—or your parents—have one stored away, it’s time to check those old boxes in the basement.

2. Pez Dispensers

While they were originally designed in the 1920s as a peppermint candy alternative to smoking, Pez dispensers evolved into colourful collectible items by the 1950s.

Today, some Pez dispensers are worth a small fortune, especially if they’re rare and in good condition. For example:

• A 1979 Walt Disney Goofy Pez is listed for $2,883 on eBay.
• A rare purple-headed cow Pez from 1973 can fetch around $2,000.
• A Mary Poppins dispenser (1973, painted cheeks, no feet) is valued at $1,250, while another version without painted cheeks is worth $750.

These small plastic toys, once easily overlooked, are now serious money-makers for collectors.

3. First Edition Harry Potter Books

Published in 1997, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling launched a literary and cinematic phenomenon. Only 500 copies of the hardback first edition were printed, and most went to libraries.

If you’re lucky enough to have one in good condition, you’re sitting on a goldmine. A first edition copy has been estimated to sell between $100,000 and $150,000 at auction. All this from a book that originally cost $16.95.

Not all versions are this valuable, but if your book has a print line that reads “1 0 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1,” you might want to get it appraised.

4. Barbie Dolls

Since her debut in 1959, Barbie has remained an icon in the toy world. While most dolls are only worth a few dollars, certain vintage Barbies have turned into high-value collectibles.

The original 1959 Barbie—complete with her black-and-white swimsuit—is worth around $8,000 today.

But it doesn’t stop there. The most expensive Barbie ever made was designed by Australian jewelry designer Stefano Canturi. This Barbie wore a necklace featuring a one-carat pink diamond and three carats of white diamonds. She sold for a jaw-dropping $632,000 in 2010.

Collectors are especially interested in:

• Special designer collections
• Dolls in original packaging
• Limited edition releases from the 90s

5. Tamagotchis

The Tamagotchi took the world by storm in the late 90s. This egg-shaped digital pet required users to feed, play, and care for it like a real creature—or it would “die.” Kids even took them to school just to keep them alive.

While newer versions still exist, the original vintage models are now valuable collectibles:

• The Vintage Tamagotchi Plus Gold can be found for $3,328.02.
• The Tamagotchi Connection V3 Golden Limited sells for $1,200.

They were originally priced around $15 to $30, so the return on investment is impressive for a small plastic device with a few pixels on the screen.

6. Furby Toys

Creepy to some and adorable to others, the Furby was a hot holiday toy when it was released in 1998. With the ability to “learn” language and respond to sound and light, Furbies became a sensation.

The original retail price was $35, and many of those basic models still hover around the same price point online. However, it’s the special edition and rare models that command higher prices.

The Emoto-Tronic Furby, released in 2005, can now sell for over $400.

The most jaw-dropping version is the Bejeweled Furby—decorated with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and 156 Swarovski crystals. Only five were ever made, and each is worth about $100,000.

Final Thoughts

Many people don’t realize the value of what they once considered “just toys.” Items from childhood—especially if kept in good condition—can become extremely valuable collectibles. From Star Wars and Barbie to Pez and Tamagotchis, it might be time to dig through old boxes at home.

Not only do these collectibles offer a walk down memory lane, but they also provide an unexpected way to earn passive income. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, the world of vintage treasures might be more profitable than you think.