Many of us will remember certain Christmases where we got the toy of the year as our main gift. For different generations, the most popular toys have changed over the years. Some popular toys can be worth a small fortune if you happen to have kept them well preserved in your home storage.
Whether you’re a collector or just someone who appreciates nostalgia, preserving potentially valuable toys items is essential to maintaining their value. We’ve put together a guide to some of the most popular vintage Christmas toys and how to store them properly.
The most valuable vintage Christmas toys
There are many toys you might still have in storage which can be worth a decent amount when resold, so to help you identify hidden gems we’ve put together a list of some of the most valuable toys for resale. Take a look:
2000s Bratz Rock Angelz dolls
Bratz dolls were the dolls to have for Gen Z growing up. Their distinctive style, diversity and strong personalities made them stand out from other toys on the market. The extensive media presence of Bratz dolls, including TV shows and movies, further cemented their status as a must-have toy for kids growing up in that era. Not all dolls are worth much on the resale market, despite their huge popularity. You can make the most money if you happen to have The Bratz Rock Angelz , which were released in 2005. Tattoo edversions of these dolls can fetch up to £149.99 on resale auction sites.
1980s Original Rubik’s Cube
The Rubik’s Cube burst onto the scene in the 1980s, quickly becoming a worldwide phenomenon. Its enduring popularity has made it a sought-after collectible item. Early versions from the 1970s, originally known as the “Magic Cube,” can command prices around £355 online. However, the iconic branded Rubik’s Cube from the 1980s can fetch even higher amounts, with some selling for up to £435 on resale sites. Collectors particularly prize these vintage cubes, especially those in pristine condition with original packaging.
1980s Cabbage Patch Kids
Original Cabbage Patch Kids dolls were a huge hit in the early 1980s and remain highly coveted by collectors today. The average doll can resell for anywhere between £16 to £395. Among the most valuable are Teresa Ann, which can resell for £670 to £1,580, as well as signed “Little People Original” dolls, valued around £1,250 to £1,580.These two types of Cabbage Patch Kids are amongst the rarest and most valuable, making them valuable possessions in the collector’s market.
1990s Polly Pocket
Vintage Polly Pocket sets, especially those in their original packaging, are highly valuable collectibles. These tiny fashion dolls were a hit in the 1990s, captivating children with their colourful and imaginative playsets. Among the most sought-after sets is the Angel Polly Pocket Castle from the 1990s, which is listed online for a staggering £11,971.50.
1990s Tamagotchi
Tamagotchis were beloved virtual pet toys and were a huge sensation in the late 1990s. Original Tamagotchis, particularly those in good condition, are highly valued by collectors. One of the rarest editions is the 1997 white and red Tamagotchi, which is extremely sought after and can fetch up to £2,400 for collectors.
1980s Talking Viewmaster
Vintage Talking Viewmasters were incredibly popular from the 1970s through to the 1980s, captivating children with their 3D images. These interactive toys are now valuable to collectors, especially when in good condition. One of the most sought-after editions is the 1984 Michael Jackson Viewmaster, which can sell for around £250 online.
1990s Nintendo Game Boy
The first Game Boy, released in Japan on April 21, 1989, quickly became a revolutionary handheld gaming device. It reached North America in July 1989 and Europe in September 1990, sparking a trend of portable gaming for future generations. While standard editions of the original 1990 Game Boy can sell for up to £300, rarer editions of the console can fetch much higher prices. Notably only 30 versions of the CoroCoro Game Boy were ever made, featuring an adorable Pikachu design around the screen. This special edition can sell for up to £5,000 online.
How to properly store dolls and toys to preserve their value
Vintage dolls and toys can carry sentimental value and sometimes historical significance, making proper storage essential to maintain their condition and value. Here are some tips to help you store your vintage dolls and toys:
1. Clean and prepare your toys
Before storing, gently clean your dolls and toys to remove dust and dirt. Use a soft cloth or a small, soft brush. For delicate fabrics and surfaces, use a damp cloth for spot cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the materials.
2. Store in a dry and cool environment
It is advised to store your items in a climate-controlled environment. Avoid attics, basements and garages where temperature and humidity can fluctuate. You should also take care to avoid moisture as humidity can cause mould, mildew or rust. Use dehumidifiers or silica gel packs in your storage area to control moisture levels.
3. Use proper storage containers
Store dolls and toys in acid-free boxes to prevent discoloration and deterioration. Use clear, sturdy plastic bins with tight-fitting lids. Avoid storing items in cardboard boxes, as they can attract pests and degrade over time.
4. Protect fabrics and paints on toys
Wrap dolls and toys in acid-free tissue paper to protect them from dust and light exposure. Use bubble wrap or foam padding for delicate and breakable items to prevent damage.
5. Never get rid of original packaging
Original packaging and accessories add great value to vintage toys and dolls and make them much more attractive to collectors. Be sure to store items in original packaging whenever possible. You should also keep your items out of direct sunlight to prevent packaging fading and deteriorating.
6. Handle items with care
When handling vintage items, wear clean cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils and dirt from your hands. You should aim to limit handling to reduce the risk of accidental damage. If you need to move items, do so gently and carefully.
7. Check your collectibles regularly
Regularly inspect your storage area for signs of pests such as insects and rodents. Also periodically check the condition of your dolls and toys. Look for any signs of wear, damage or deterioration.
8. Use proper display items
If you choose to display your items, use dust-free display cases to protect them from dust and damage. Ensure that display shelves are stable and can support the weight of your items. Consider using brackets for added support.
9. Keep note of your collection
Keep an inventory list of your collection, including details about each item’s condition, value and any unique features. Take clear photographs of each item for documentation and insurance purposes.
10. Insurance
Consider insuring particularly valuable or rare items in your collection. This can help protect your investment in case of loss or damage.
How to store electronic games to preserve value and replay ability
Retro games are immensely popular with collectors from specific generations. For those of us who grew up with retro games consoles, the demand for these items can be higher. It’s essential to store electronic games properly to preserve their value and playability. Here are some tips to help you take care of your retro games:
1. Keep in a clean and dust-free environment
Keep your games and consoles clean by dusting them regularly. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dust and dirt. Also make sure to store your games in a dry environment to prevent moisture damage. Humidity can cause labels to peel and cartridges to corrode. You can also consider using air purifiers in your storage area to reduce dust and maintain air quality.
2. Use the right storage containers
Use plastic cases to store individual cartridges and discs. These cases protect against dust, scratches and other physical damage. You can also invest in sturdy shelving units to keep your games organised and easily accessible. Make sure the shelves are stable and can support the weight of your collection.
3. Get the optimal temperature for storage environments
Store your games in a climate-controlled environment. Extreme temperatures can damage the plastic and electronic components. Keep humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent mould growth and corrosion.
4. Organise your collection by console and games
Try to organise your games by system and genre to make it easier to find specific titles. Label your shelves or storage bins for quick access. It can be beneficial to maintain an inventory list of your collection. This helps you keep track of what you own and can be useful for insurance purposes.
5. Keep original boxes
If you have games with their original packaging, store these boxes carefully. Use protective sleeves or boxes to prevent damage. Keep your games and their packaging out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and discoloration.
6. Don’t touch items prone to damage
Always handle your games with clean hands and avoid touching the contact points on cartridges and discs. Don’t stack your games in a way that puts pressure on the cases or cartridges, as this can cause damage.
7. Check items regularly for wear
Regularly inspect your games for any signs of wear, damage or corrosion. Address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration. You should also occasionally test your games and consoles to ensure they are still functional. This helps you identify any problems early on.
If you need Tamworth self storage, Hinckley or Nuneaton we provide clean, dry, secure indoor rooms for business storage and domestic storage. We make storage as simple, easy and hassle free as possible. You can click here to find out more or go online and get a quote in 30 seconds!