You may have an idea about what a big business antique toys really can be. Stories abound of people selling their old baseball cards or action figures for four or five figures, and sometimes even more. While these types of transactions are of course the exception to the rule, buying and selling antique toys can actually be very lucrative. There are some tips and tricks to the business, and some things to watch out for as well.
For one thing, many who are interested in antique toys know that the original packaging is very important to the integrity of the toy itself. However, the idea that the packaging keeps the toy from being damaged is not the only reason that it’s important. The packaging of antique toys is often part of the appeal. The design of the box or package, the lettering used, and things like these are all part of the appeal. Having a toy in its original package can remind people of the excitement they felt when they first purchased the toy, and this is all part of its value. So while many antique toys can be valuable even without packaging, finding items with it makes them worth even more.
Most toys need to be only ten years old to be actually considered antique, but of course you need to remember that some will just be more valuable than others. Items that were truly limited editions or specialized, or that came and went quickly, or those that just are not made anymore are of course going to be worth more. Some antique toys from a particular maker can also be very valuable. For instance, very old Matchbox cars or Radio Flyer wagons can be worth quite a bit. While Matchbox and Radio Flyer are both still in business, it’s obvious that these older brands and models are very different from what you can purchase today.
And of course antique toys will be affected by individual buyers. Some are very interested in a particular model or make of toy, whereas some toys appeal to a wider audience. If you find a buyer that is interested in antique toys that are wooden or that are motorized or that are from a particular decade or manufacturer, then you know what to look for. Sometimes certain items can flood the market and the value goes down, but usually you have an idea of what to be on the lookout for when it comes to popular items that sell well.
Many who love the business of antique toys find it to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of antiquing. There is probably no other type of antique that is more enjoyable to hunt down and then eventually sell. When you find a great item on the market and match it up with a buyer, it’s almost like giving them a birthday or Christmas gift all over again. So if you’re interested in antique toys why not give the business a try?
