It’s hard to believe that the ’90s began over 30 years ago, but many still have fond memories of the decade that was filled with iconic music, groundbreaking technology, and toys and gadgets that sold like hotcakes. It was a decade that saw the likes of The Spice Girls and Oasis top the charts, and films like Toy Story and Jurassic Park hit theaters for the first time.
When it came to fashion, denim, chokers, curly hair and velvet were all the rage, while chains like Deep Pan Pizza and Somerfield were still around. We also saw a bit of a toy craze sweeping through homes and schools – some of which might be hidden in a loft or a dusty box at the back of a wardrobe.
As the years have passed, many of these items have not only gained nostalgic value, but have also become worth a significant amount of money. Surprisingly, even some items that have recently resurfaced or become popular through modern reboots or anniversaries are now worth a small fortune.
Ant Robinson from Madbricks has taken a look at some of the 90s possessions that could be worth thousands today. Whether you’re a collector or just have a few old toys lying around, it could be worth digging them up.
This list is not meant to be exhaustive, but if you have a favorite toy, gadget, or piece of clothing from the 90s, let us know in the comments below.
Lego sets
Lego has been a staple in children’s toy boxes for decades, but certain sets from the 1990s have become particularly valuable. For example, the Star Wars Lego sets from 1999, such as the Ultimate Collector’s Series Millennium Falcon, are highly sought after. These sets, especially unopened, can fetch thousands of pounds at auction. For example, an unopened Millennium Falcon set can be worth up to £6,000.
Pokemon Cards
The Pokémon craze swept through the 90s and original Pokémon cards have once again increased in value, especially with the recent Pokémon anniversaries. For example, a first edition Charizard card can now be worth tens of thousands of pounds, depending on its condition. Demand for these cards has skyrocketed, making them some of the most valuable collectibles of the 90s. A mint condition Charizard card can fetch up to £50,000.
Tamagotchis
The virtual pet phenomenon Tamagotchi was a huge hit in the late 90s. These small, egg-shaped digital pets have made a comeback in recent years, but the original versions are the most valuable. Mint condition Tamagotchis from the 90s, especially rare editions, can be worth hundreds of pounds, with some fetching even more from avid collectors. Rare versions can fetch up to £500.
Video game consoles and games
Game consoles from the 90s, such as the Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis (known as the Mega Drive outside North America) and the original PlayStation, have a large following among retro gamers. Original consoles and games in mint condition, especially those still in their original packaging, can be quite valuable. For example, a factory-sealed copy of a popular game like Super Mario 64 can fetch thousands of pounds at auction. A sealed Super Mario 64 can be worth up to £10,000.
Beanie Babies
While not all Beanie Babies have retained their value, certain rare and original versions from the 90s are worth a significant amount of money. For example, the Princess Diana bear and some of the early edition bears can be worth thousands. The market for these plush toys can be quite volatile, but the right piece can still fetch a high price. The Princess Diana bear can fetch up to £5,000.
Fashion items from the 90s
Vintage fashion from the 90s is back in fashion and some items are now worth a considerable amount of money. Iconic brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Fila and Adidas have enjoyed a revival and original pieces from the 90s are highly sought after. Certain limited edition trainers, jackets and accessories in mint condition can be worth hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Limited edition trainers can fetch up to £2,000.
Polly Pocket Sets
Polly Pocket sets were a huge hit with children in the 1990s. These compact, miniature playsets are now highly sought-after collectors’ items. Complete sets in good condition, especially those with their original packaging, can fetch high prices. Some rare sets can sell for up to £500.
Action figures
Action figures from popular franchises from the 90s, such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Power Rangers and Star Wars, have become highly sought-after collectibles. Original figures, especially those still in their packaging, can be valuable. A mint condition Star Wars action figure from the 90s can be worth up to £1,000.
Retro toy collector Ant Robinson of Madbricks said: “These nostalgic treasures from the 90s have become prized possessions in today’s market. Whether you’re a collector or just have a few old toys lying around in the attic, it could be worth digging them up to see if you’re sitting on a small fortune.”
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