Top Toys to Invest in 2023: A Collector’s Guide to Profitable Playthings

Forget stocks and bonds for a moment—2023 might just be the year to put your money into toys. Surprising, right? But toys have long been more than just fun and games. They are a burgeoning investment opportunity, often yielding significant returns over time. For example, rare action figures, limited-edition LEGO sets, or vintage board games have seen prices multiply dramatically over the years. So, which toys should you bet on this year? Let’s dive into the world of toy investing and unveil the top picks that could provide a surprisingly lucrative return on your investment.

1. The Rise of LEGO: More Than Just Building Blocks

It may seem counterintuitive, but LEGO sets have proven to be one of the most valuable investments in the toy market. Over the past decade, certain LEGO sets have outperformed gold, stocks, and bonds. Why? Because LEGO appeals to a wide audience, from children to adult collectors, and the company has mastered the art of scarcity and exclusivity. Sets are often produced for a limited time, and once they are discontinued, prices can skyrocket.

Best LEGO Sets to Invest In:

• LEGO Creator Expert Series: Known for their intricate designs and often centered around famous landmarks, these sets tend to appreciate significantly. For example, the “Taj Mahal” set originally retailed for around $300, but after its retirement, it began selling for over $2,000 on the secondary market.
• LEGO Star Wars Ultimate Collector’s Series: These sets combine two of the most collectible niches—LEGO and Star Wars. The “Millennium Falcon” set, released in 2007, was initially sold for $500 and now regularly sells for over $5,000.
• Retired LEGO Sets: Keep an eye on upcoming retirements, as these sets often see a sharp increase in value once production ceases. Sites like BrickEconomy track LEGO prices and provide a reliable forecast for future values.

2. Vintage Action Figures: The Nostalgic Goldmine

Action figures are another top contender for toy investment. From Star Wars to G.I. Joe to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vintage action figures from the 1980s and 1990s are in high demand. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar, especially for mint-condition figures still in their original packaging.

Top Action Figures to Consider:

• Star Wars Vintage Collection: The original Kenner Star Wars action figures, especially from the 1977–1985 era, can fetch thousands of dollars. A 1978 Luke Skywalker figure, in its original blister pack, recently sold for $25,000.
• Masters of the Universe: Figures like He-Man and Skeletor are seeing a resurgence due to nostalgia and new media reboots. A Skeletor figure from the original 1982 line can sell for up to $1,500.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT): The original TMNT action figures released in 1988 are also a hot commodity. For example, a Raphael action figure in mint condition can sell for up to $1,200.

3. Hot Wheels and Matchbox Cars: Tiny Toys, Big Returns

Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars have been favorites among children for decades, but they’re also a treasure trove for collectors. Rare editions, especially those from the 1960s and 1970s, have appreciated dramatically.

Noteworthy Models:

• 1969 Pink Rear-Loading Beach Bomb: Known as the “Holy Grail” of Hot Wheels, this model can sell for over $100,000.
• Redlines: Hot Wheels produced between 1968 and 1977, characterized by a red stripe on the wheels, are highly sought after. A mint-condition Redline from this era can range from $1,000 to $5,000.
• Matchbox “Superfast” Series: Produced in the 1970s, these cars can fetch several hundred dollars each, depending on the model and condition.

4. Funko Pop! Figures: The New Age of Collectibles

The Funko Pop! phenomenon continues to grow, making it a relatively new but promising investment avenue. Their appeal lies in their vast range of pop culture references, limited releases, and exclusivity. Certain figures are produced in extremely limited quantities or are exclusive to specific events, making them highly collectible.

Top Funko Pops to Invest In:

• Limited Editions and Exclusives: Figures released exclusively at Comic-Cons or in limited numbers can significantly increase in value. For example, a 2011 San Diego Comic-Con “Freddy Funko as Jaime Lannister” recently sold for $15,000.
• Vaulted Figures: Once Funko discontinues a figure, or “vaults” it, prices often soar. Some vaulted figures have appreciated by over 500% in just a few years.
• Chase Variants: Certain Funko Pops come with a “chase” variant— a rarer version of a standard figure. These can be worth several times the price of the standard version.

5. Vintage Board Games: More Than Just Family Fun

Board games, particularly vintage ones, have become highly collectible. Games from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s are in high demand, especially if they’re in mint condition or unopened. Some are rare enough to fetch thousands of dollars.

Games Worth Investing In:

• Monopoly (1930s Editions): Original editions, especially those from the 1930s, can sell for $3,000 or more.
• Dark Tower: A highly sought-after electronic board game from the early 1980s can sell for up to $1,000 if in excellent condition.
• Fireball Island: A unique game with a cult following, an unopened copy from the 1980s can fetch around $500.

6. Pokémon Cards: Gotta Catch Them All… for Investment

The Pokémon trading card game is another area where investors have seen incredible returns. Rare cards, particularly from the early sets (1999–2000), can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Key Pokémon Cards to Consider:

• First Edition Holographic Charizard (1999): This card is the crown jewel of any Pokémon collection. A PSA 10 Gem Mint condition Charizard can sell for over $300,000.
• Pikachu Illustrator Card: Only a handful of these cards exist, and they can sell for upwards of $1 million.
• Shining Charizard (Neo Destiny, 2002): While not as rare as the First Edition Charizard, this card can still fetch several thousand dollars.

7. Barbie Dolls: The Queen of Vintage Toys

Barbie dolls, especially vintage ones from the 1960s and 1970s, have long been a favorite among collectors. Certain Barbies can sell for thousands of dollars, particularly those in mint condition with original packaging.

Most Valuable Barbie Dolls:

• 1959 Original Barbie: The very first Barbie doll can sell for $25,000 or more if it’s in mint condition.
• 1967 Twist N’ Turn Barbie: This model introduced a new twist waist feature and can sell for up to $800.
• 1971 Malibu Barbie: An iconic doll of its time, this model can fetch around $1,000 if it’s still in the original packaging.

8. Video Game Consoles and Cartridges: Retro Gaming’s Golden Era

Video game collecting has skyrocketed in recent years, particularly for consoles and cartridges from the 1980s and 1990s.

Most Valuable Video Game Investments:

• Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) Cartridges: Rare titles like “Super Mario Bros.” or “The Legend of Zelda” sealed in their original packaging can sell for over $100,000.
• Sega Genesis and Sega Saturn: Limited-release games and special editions, like "Panzer Dragoon Saga," can fetch several thousand dollars.
• Sony PlayStation (PS1) Games: Rare games such as “Suikoden II” or “Castlevania: Symphony of the Night” in mint condition can sell for up to $500 each.

Conclusion: The Key to Successful Toy Investment

Investing in toys requires a mix of nostalgia, strategic planning, and a bit of luck. The key is to focus on items that are scarce, have a strong fan base, and are in mint condition. It’s also crucial to stay updated on market trends and act quickly on potential deals. While not every toy will become the next big thing, with careful selection and a bit of patience, you could find yourself sitting on a small fortune.

So, whether you're a passionate collector or a savvy investor looking to diversify your portfolio, the toy market offers a world of opportunities in 2023. Start exploring, start collecting, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find the next hidden gem.