Recently, a 1979 action figure set a new auction record, selling for an amount equivalent to the price of a three-bedroom, two-bath home in many parts of the United States. The Rocket-Firing Boba Fett action figure was purchased by an anonymous buyer in Dallas for $525,000, making it the most valuable vintage toy ever sold at auction.
The Rocket-Firing Boba Fett, produced in 1979, was never officially released in stores. It was part of a mail-away promotion by American toy maker Kenner, who sold popular toys from franchises like "Star Wars" and "Batman." The promotion offered a Boba Fett figure with a rocket launcher on its back to anyone who provided proof of purchasing four "Star Wars" action figures. However, Kenner ultimately decided to attach the plastic rocket to the toy due to choking hazard concerns, making the rocket-firing version extremely rare.
Part of what drives the value of vintage toys is nostalgia. Those who grew up playing with early action figures in the 1970s and 1980s now have the disposable income to buy the toys they had or wanted as kids. Collectors are often willing to pay significant amounts for rare items in pristine condition, driving prices up. Despite the high values of some toys, many collectibles are subject to volatile pricing and speculative markets.
For the first time ever, adults have become the most lucrative demographic for the toy industry, outspending even preschoolers. In the first quarter of 2024, adults over 18 spent more than $1.5 billion on toys for themselves. This trend was fueled by the pandemic, as people sought comfort and nostalgia in toys from their childhood. The most popular properties among adult buyers include "Pokémon," "Barbie," "Star Wars," and "Hot Wheels," all of which have extensive vintage catalogs.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.