10 Items From the 1980s That Are Worth a Lot of Money

Caitlyn Moorhead
sjharmon / Getty Images
sjharmon / Getty Images

The 1980s was a time of big hair, neon colors, and some seriously valuable collectibles. From toys to tech, you might be surprised things you’ve had in storage for decades are actually worth a fortune. It’s time to dust off your GI Joes, Star Wars Action Figures and Cabbage Patch dolls and see if the cash they can fetch you is worth more than your nostalgic value.

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10 Valuable 1980s Collectibles

For some items from the 1980s, there is a general type of toy, comic book or video game that will always do better in the collectible arena, but there are also specific pieces from that decade that are worth a crazy amount of money. Here are 10 items you should check to see if you have in your collection:

1. 1980-D Lincoln Cent

This rare penny is being sold for $2,499 on Etsy with other pennies of that decade with varying errors and characteristics fetching thousands of dollars. Empty out your piggy bank to see if you have any hidden gems.

2. 1986 Bo Jackson Rookie Card

Baseball collectors will already know this, but if you happen to have stacks of cards in your basement you might want to sift through them. The 1986 Topps Traded Bo Jackson Rookie Card, “Mint Bo Knows” is worth upwards of $1,295.

3. 1988 Happy Holidays Barbie

Barbies have been around for decades, but there are a few from the 1980s that are worth a pile of cash. The 1988 Happy Holidays Barbie is worth an estimated $2,000. Other Barbies of that time, such as a 1980s Barbie and the Rockers doll aren’t worth quite as much, but could still score you around $75.

4. 1980s Apple Memorabilia

The rare MacIntosh Plus advertising board from the 1980s is getting $1,542.92 on Etsy. Other vintage Apple items or computers can also be worth a pretty penny.

5. 1982 P Error Quarter

A rare P error on this 1982 quarter, double dye heavy on “In God We Trust” is worth $300 on eBay, which is quite a step up from 25 cents.

6. 1984 Original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1 Comic Book

The comic introduced many firsts to the Nina Turtles series–the wise Splinter and the Turtles’ main nemesis, Shredder, among many other firsts. It had a very limited run after its release–only about $3,000–so getting your hands on one of these is going to be tough, but a rare treasure.

7. 1980s Cabbage Patch Dolls

These adorable dolls were a sensation in the ’80s, and certain limited edition or rare versions can fetch high prices among collectors today. Upwards of $1,000 for certain dolls in good condition.

8. 1985 Super Mario Bros. Nintendo Game

The Nintendo NES Super Mario Bros. from 1985 is listed at $1,199 on eBay. NES revolutionized the gaming industry do if you have a rare edition or one in mint condition, it could get you good money among collectors.

9. 1982 Astronaut B Pez Dispenser

Designed for the World Fair there were only a few of this Pez Dispenser design ever made. It is so rare, in fact, that one was sold for $32,000 in 2006. If you have a Pez collection, it may be worth discovering if you have any rare gems.

10. 1980s Red Sea Crossing Atari Game

Red Sea Crossing from Atari 2600 is a game that can get you over $10,000 online from some buyers or collectors.

1980s Items In Your Collection That Might Be Worth Something

If you don’t have a rare coin collection or signed memorabilia you might think you’re old toys aren’t worth anything. However, there are several things from the 1980s nostalgic people are willing to pay top dollar for such as the following.

  • Original Transformers toys: These action figures were not just toys; they were a cultural phenomenon. Vintage Transformers in good condition, especially the original ones from the ’80s, can be worth a bundle.

  • Vinyl records: Vinyl saw a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and original pressings of ’80s albums from iconic bands like Michael Jackson or Madonna can be valuable collector’s items.

  • Vintage computers: Early personal computers like the Apple II or the Commodore 64 are highly sought after by collectors. If you have one in working condition, it could be worth a significant amount.

  • Original Star Wars action figures: The force is strong with these collectibles. Vintage Star Wars action figures, especially those still in their original packaging, can command high prices at auctions.

  • Boomboxes: The iconic boomboxes of the ’80s are not just nostalgic; they’re also valuable. Vintage models from brands like Sony or Panasonic, especially those with unique designs or features, can be worth a lot to collectors.

  • Vintage video games: Games from the ’80s, especially those in their original packaging and in good condition, can be worth a small fortune. Look out for classics like Super Mario Bros. or The Legend of Zelda.

  • Swatch watches: These colorful and funky watches were all the rage in the ’80s, and certain limited edition or rare designs can be highly sought after by collectors today.

  • Original movie posters: Posters from popular ’80s movies like “Back to the Future,” “Ghostbusters,” or “The Breakfast Club” can be valuable collector’s items, especially if they are in good condition and original prints.

Final Take To GO

Looking through your old items from your childhood can quite literally be a treasure hunt as you never know if you’ll strike gold. Some things are worth keeping for nostalgia, but others that are just collecting dust in your attic might be worth brushing off and seeing if you can make some money on 1980s items that you no longer need or want.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Items From the 1980s That Are Worth a Lot of Money

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