Determining the value of old toys, especially in the UK, involves considering various factors such as rarity, condition, and historical significance. Below is a detailed exploration of some of the most valuable old toys, focusing on those that have fetched high prices at auctions or are highly sought after by collectors. This examination includes well-known brands and specific toys that are iconic in the world of vintage collectibles.
Valuable Vintage Toys in the UK
1. Star Wars Action Figures
Early Action Figures (1977-1985)
The original "Star Wars" action figures, particularly those from the first wave released by Kenner in 1977, are highly collectible. These figures are valuable, especially if they are still in their original packaging. Some of the most sought-after figures include:
- Darth Vader with Double-Telescoping Lightsaber: One of the rarest variations, this figure can fetch thousands of pounds.
- Boba Fett (with original rocket-firing mechanism): Initially recalled due to safety concerns, figures with the original mechanism can command very high prices.
Price Range
Mint-condition figures in original packaging can range from £500 to several thousand pounds, depending on the character and rarity.
2. Action Man
1960s-1970s Editions
The British counterpart to the American G.I. Joe, Action Man figures from the 1960s and 1970s are highly valued, particularly those in pristine condition or with unique accessories. Key items include:
- 1966 Action Man Soldier: Complete sets in original packaging can be worth several hundred pounds.
- Action Man Scorpion Tank: One of the rarer accessories, this can also reach high values when complete and in good condition.
Price Range
Figures and accessories can range from £100 to over £1,000, depending on rarity and condition.
3. LEGO Sets
Vintage Sets (Pre-1980s)
LEGO sets, especially those from the 1960s and 1970s, are highly collectible. Some sets that are particularly valuable include:
- LEGO 12V Train Sets: These sets from the 1970s, especially the rare ones, can fetch high prices.
- LEGO Castle (Yellow Castle from 1978): One of the earliest themed sets, it is highly sought after by collectors.
Price Range
Complete vintage sets in good condition can sell for between £200 to £1,000, with some rare sets reaching even higher prices.
4. Scalextric Sets
1960s-1970s Editions
Scalextric, the popular slot car racing sets, have a strong following among collectors. Early models and sets from the 1960s and 1970s, especially those in original condition, are highly prized.
- Scalextric James Bond Set (1960s): One of the most famous sets, featuring the Aston Martin DB5, can be worth several thousand pounds if complete and in good condition.
- Vintage Cars and Tracks: Individual cars, particularly rare models, and complete track sets can be valuable.
Price Range
Complete sets can range from £200 to several thousand pounds, depending on the model and condition.
5. Dinky Toys
Pre-War and Post-War Models
Dinky Toys, known for their detailed die-cast models, are among the most collectible toys. Pre-war models, as well as early post-war models, are particularly valuable.
- Dinky Supertoys (Lorries, Buses): These large-scale models are highly sought after.
- Pre-War Cars: These are some of the rarest and most valuable Dinky Toys.
Price Range
Individual models can range from £50 to several thousand pounds, with rare pre-war models commanding the highest prices.
6. Hornby Trains
Vintage O Gauge and OO Gauge
Hornby trains, particularly the older O gauge models from the 1930s to 1950s, and early OO gauge models, are highly collectible.
- 1930s O Gauge Models: These early electric or clockwork models are among the most valuable.
- 1950s OO Gauge Sets: Complete sets in good condition can also be highly prized.
Price Range
Sets and individual trains can range from £100 to several thousand pounds, depending on rarity and condition.
7. Meccano Sets
Early 20th Century Editions
Meccano sets, particularly those from the early 20th century, are highly collectible. Sets that are complete and in good condition, with original boxes and instructions, are particularly valuable.
- Pre-War Meccano Sets: These are the most sought after, especially large sets with many parts.
- Meccano Dinky Builder: An offshoot of Meccano, these sets are also highly collectible.
Price Range
Complete sets can range from £100 to several thousand pounds, depending on age, completeness, and condition.
8. Barbie Dolls
1959-1960s Editions
Barbie dolls, especially the earliest models from 1959 and the 1960s, are highly collectible. Key items include:
- 1959 Barbie (Number 1): The first-ever Barbie doll, in mint condition, can be worth thousands of pounds.
- Early Accessories and Outfits: These can also fetch high prices, particularly if they are rare and in good condition.
Price Range
Dolls can range from £100 to several thousand pounds, with the earliest models commanding the highest prices.
9. Teddy Bears
Early 20th Century Bears
Antique teddy bears, particularly those from the early 20th century, are highly collectible. Some notable brands include:
- Steiff Bears: These German bears, especially those from the early 1900s, are some of the most valuable.
- Merrythought Bears: British-made bears from the early 20th century are also highly prized.
Price Range
Bears can range from £100 to several thousand pounds, with the rarest and oldest models being the most valuable.
10. Corgi Toys
1950s-1970s Models
Corgi Toys, known for their die-cast model cars, are highly collectible. Some of the most valuable models include:
- James Bond Aston Martin DB5 (1965): One of the most iconic and valuable models.
- Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Car (1968): Another highly collectible model.
Price Range
Individual models can range from £50 to several thousand pounds, with rare models in mint condition fetching the highest prices.
Conclusion
The world of vintage toy collecting in the UK is vast and diverse, with numerous toys from different eras commanding high prices. The value of these toys is influenced by factors such as rarity, condition, historical significance, and desirability among collectors. Toys from iconic brands like Star Wars, Action Man, LEGO, Scalextric, Dinky, Hornby, Meccano, Barbie, Steiff, and Corgi are among the most valuable, often fetching prices that can reach several thousand pounds at auction. Collectors seeking to invest in these toys should focus on acquiring items in the best possible condition, ideally with original packaging and documentation, to maximize their value.
