Many items from millennial childhoods—90s and early 2000s—are now nostalgic treasures that collectors are willing to pay a premium for. If you’ve held onto any of these iconic items, you could be sitting on a small fortune. Whether you’re looking to make a profit or simply cherish the nostalgia, these collectibles from millennial childhoods are more valuable now than ever. Here are 20 valuable items that could be worth money, along with some tips to help you get the most out of your collection.
Original Pokémon Cards
Why: Cards from the original 1999 set, especially holographic Charizard, have become some of the most sought-after collectibles.
Tip: Cards in mint condition, graded by companies like PSA, can sell for much higher values.

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Beanie Babies
Why: Certain Beanie Babies like “Princess the Bear” (dedicated to Princess Diana) or misprinted versions are highly valued by collectors.
Tip: Research specific names and errors on your Beanie Babies—errors often increase their value.

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Nintendo 64 Consoles and Games
Why: Nostalgia for N64 games like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda, and Super Smash Bros. keeps these in high demand.
Tip: Original packaging and working condition can significantly boost the value.

American Girl Dolls
Why: Dolls from the ’90s, like Samantha and Felicity, and early editions often fetch high prices.
Tip: Dolls with their original accessories, especially in good condition, are more appealing to collectors.

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Polly Pocket Sets
Why: The original, compact Polly Pocket sets from the 1980s and 90s are valuable, especially if complete.
Tip: Small parts and pieces are crucial—complete sets in their cases sell for more.

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Furby Toys
Why: Furbys from the late ’90s have become popular collectibles due to their quirky nature.
Tip: Rare Furbys, like the limited-edition ones or those with unique patterns, fetch the highest prices.

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Magic: The Gathering Cards
Why: Early editions and rare cards from the 90s, especially “Black Lotus,” can be worth thousands.
Tip: Protect your cards with sleeves and avoid using them to maintain their mint condition.

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Yu-Gi-Oh! Cards
Why: Cards like Blue-Eyes White Dragon from the original sets are highly valuable, especially in pristine condition.
Tip: Limited and first-edition cards command the highest prices.

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Pogs and Slammers
Why: Although not as high-value as other collectibles, rare Pogs and slammers, especially complete sets, can be worth something.
Tip: Pogs with unique designs or brand collaborations are generally more valuable.

Game Boys and Game Cartridges
Why: Game Boys and classic game cartridges, particularly limited editions like Pokémon Yellow, are highly collectible.
Tip: Working units with minimal wear and tear, especially those in original packaging, are more valuable.

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Tamagotchi Pets
Why: Original, unopened Tamagotchis from the late 90s are collector favorites, especially first-generation models.
Tip: Keep it in its original packaging, if possible, and try to avoid wear.

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Disney VHS Tapes
Why: Some collectors seek out Black Diamond Disney VHS tapes, though not all are valuable.
Tip: The most valuable ones are sealed and part of the “Black Diamond Collection” or limited editions.

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Harry Potter First-Edition Books
Why: First editions of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone are extremely valuable, particularly the UK edition.
Tip: Look for first editions with misprints or unusual markings, as they’re often worth more.

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Tickle Me Elmo Dolls
Why: The original Tickle Me Elmo from the 90s was a cultural phenomenon, and today it’s a prized collectible.
Tip: Boxes in pristine condition, especially unopened, are worth the most.

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Action Figures
Why: Vintage TMNT toys from the 80s and early 90s are highly collectible, especially those still in packaging.
Tip: Look for unique or limited-run versions, which tend to have a higher resale value.

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Jurassic Park Toys
Why: The original Jurassic Park figures, especially dinosaurs and vehicles, are sought after by fans and collectors.
Tip: Unopened toys in mint packaging are highly valuable, particularly the rarer figures.

Vintage LEGO Sets
Why: Classic sets, especially themed collections like Star Wars, Pirates, and Space, are in high demand.
Tip: Complete sets with all pieces, instructions, and boxes are the most valuable.

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McDonald’s Happy Meal Toys
Why: Certain rare toys, such as the 1990s Teenie Beanie Babies, are now highly collectible.
Tip: Keep toys in their original packaging. Full sets can also fetch higher prices.

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My Little Pony Figures
Why: First-generation My Little Pony toys from the 80s, especially unicorns and pegasi, are sought after by collectors.
Tip: The rarest and most valuable are often international or limited editions.

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Star Wars Collectibles
Why: Original figures, especially Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker from the first films, are incredibly valuable.
Tip: Original packaging and condition are key factors in value, especially for limited editions.

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