23 Valuable 1990s Items That Fetch Big Money Today
Remember those McDonald’s Happy Meal Special Edition Beanie Babies that your favorite aunt helped you collect as a child? Some of them may be worth a small fortune now.
From first edition Pokémon cards to original Star Wars action figures, ‘90s collectables have skyrocketed in value over the years. What was once a cherished childhood treasure could now be a goldmine for collectors hungry for these nostalgic pieces.
Check out some of the most valuable items from the ‘90s that are in high demand.
Pokémon Cards
Pokémon cards took the 1990s by storm, but today, some of the first edition cards are worth a small fortune. A rare holographic Charizard, for example, can fetch up to $300,000 at auction. These cards are prized by collectors, making them some of the most valuable items from the decade.
Super Mario 64
Super Mario 64 was a beloved game for the Nintendo 64, but a sealed copy of this iconic title is now a true treasure. In 2021, a pristine, unopened version sold for a staggering $1.56 million. The value of these games has skyrocketed as nostalgia and rarity have collided.
Beanie Babies
While many Beanie Babies lost value over time, rare versions like the Princess Diana bear or Peanut the Royal Blue Elephant can still sell for thousands of dollars today. These plush collectibles have become a symbol of ‘90s nostalgia.
Magic: The Gathering
Magic: The Gathering, the first trading card game, launched in 1993, with the Alpha set now being extremely valuable. A Black Lotus card from this set can easily sell for over $500,000, making it one of the most sought-after cards in the gaming world.
Tamagotchi
The digital pet craze was led by Tamagotchi in the late 1990s, and these virtual companions have become highly collectible. A first edition, mint condition Tamagotchi can now be worth up to $3,000. These once-simple toys have turned into valuable pieces of tech history.
Sealed VHS Tapes
While VHS tapes might seem outdated, certain sealed versions from the ‘90s are fetching impressive prices. For instance, the first release of Beauty and the Beast in its original shrink wrap can be worth several thousand dollars.
Polly Pocket Playsets
Polly Pocket playsets were a staple of ‘90s childhoods, and now these miniature worlds are valuable collectibles. Original sets, especially those in pristine condition, can sell for over $1,000. The small size and intricate design of Polly Pockets have made them a lasting favorite.
Air Jordans
Nike’s Air Jordan sneakers were a 1990s fashion statement that have only grown in value. Certain rare editions, like the Air Jordan 1s from 1994, can now sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
Furby
Furby was an interactive toy that captured the hearts of many kids in the late ‘90s. An original Furby in mint condition, especially from the first production run, can sell for up to $900. These quirky, talking toys are a nostalgic piece of ‘90s culture that continues to hold value.
Star Wars Action Figures
Star Wars action figures from the ‘90s, particularly those tied to the release of the prequel trilogy, are now worth big bucks. A rare 1995 Luke Skywalker figure in original packaging can fetch upwards of $1,000.
TMNT
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were huge in the ‘90s, and toys from this era have become valuable collectibles. A mint condition, first-run Leonardo action figure can sell for over $500. These heroes in a half shell are essential to pop culture history.
Game Boy
Nintendo’s Game Boy Color was the must-have portable gaming device of the late 90s, and today, it’s a collector’s item. A sealed, unused Game Boy Color can fetch prices as high as $1,500.
Pogs
Pogs were a short-lived but wildly popular game in the 90s, and some of the rarer pieces are now worth a significant amount. A complete set of limited edition Pogs can sell for hundreds of dollars. Though the fad faded quickly, Pogs have found a new life as nostalgic collectibles.
Harry Potter Books
J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone became a global phenomenon, and the first editions of the book are now incredibly valuable. A first edition can sell for up to $100,000, depending on its condition.
Sealed LEGO Sets
LEGO sets from the ‘90s, especially those that remain sealed in their original boxes, have become highly sought after. Sets like the LEGO Pirates or the LEGO Castle can fetch several thousand dollars.
Power Rangers Toys
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers toys were a sensation in the 90s, and certain figures and sets are now worth big money. A first edition Megazord in its original packaging can sell for over $1,000.
Jurassic Park Merch
The release of Jurassic Park in 1993 spawned a massive wave of merchandise, some of which has become quite valuable. Original toys and collectibles, like a first-run T-Rex action figure, can now fetch prices upwards of $500.
My Little Pony
My Little Pony figures from the 1990s, especially those in mint condition, are now sought-after collectibles. Certain rare ponies can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. These toys have maintained a dedicated fanbase, contributing to their lasting value.
Sega Genesis
The Sega Genesis was one of the defining video game consoles of the ‘90s, and a mint condition console can now be worth up to $1,000. Games and accessories for the system have also appreciated in value.
Disney Store Items
Exclusive items from Disney Stores in the 1990s, such as limited edition plush toys or ornaments, are now highly collectible. Items like a limited edition Mickey Mouse plush can sell for hundreds of dollars.
Trapper Keepers
Trapper Keepers, the iconic school supply from the ‘90s, have become a nostalgic collectible. A mint condition Trapper Keeper with a popular design can fetch up to $200. These binders are symbols of a bygone era of childhood.
Marvel Comics
Marvel Comics from the ‘90s, especially those featuring first appearances of now-popular characters, are worth serious money. Issues like New Mutants #98, which features the first appearance of Deadpool, can sell for thousands of dollars.
Spice Girls Merch
The Spice Girls were the epitome of ‘90s pop culture, and merchandise from their heyday is now worth a lot. Items like Spice Girls dolls in their original packaging can sell for several hundred dollars.
Rich Martin
Rich Martin is an accomplished journalist with a Master's degree from the University of Georgia. He has spent over a decade covering global political events, providing insightful analysis and thought-provoking commentary. Rich prides himself for conducting meticulous research and his ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner.