For many collectors, action figures are more than just toys—they are valuable collectibles that can appreciate in price over time. Some rare figures have sold for thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars, making them highly sought-after by fans and investors alike.
Let’s take a look at the most valuable action figures ever sold and explore what makes them so special.
Table of Contents
1. Rocket-Firing Boba Fett (Prototype) – Over $200,000
One of the most legendary and expensive action figures in the world is the rocket-firing Boba Fett prototype from the original Star Wars toy line by Kenner. This figure was never officially released because the firing missile was deemed a choking hazard. Only a few prototypes made it into collectors’ hands, making it one of the rarest action figures ever.
In recent years, one of these prototypes sold for over $200,000, setting a record for Star Wars collectibles. The combination of rarity, brand recognition, and demand among collectors has made this figure incredibly valuable.
2. Vinyl Cape Jawa – Around $30,000
Another highly sought-after Star Wars figure is the vinyl cape Jawa, released by Kenner in 1978. Early versions of the figure featured a vinyl cape, but it was quickly replaced with a fabric cape to make it look more realistic.
Because only a small number of vinyl cape Jawas were sold before the change, they have become a rare and valuable collector’s item. A mint-condition figure still in its original packaging has sold for over $30,000.
3. 1978 Superman Action Figure – $25,000
Released by Mego, one of the most popular toy manufacturers of the 1970s, this Superman action figure is now a collector’s dream. Mego was known for producing high-quality action figures based on comic book heroes, and their 1978 Superman figure remains one of the most valuable.
A factory-sealed, mint-condition version of this figure has been sold for around $25,000, proving that classic superhero figures continue to be highly desirable among collectors.
4. G.I. Joe Prototype (1964) – Over $200,000
The original G.I. Joe prototype is one of the most historically significant action figures ever made. Before G.I. Joe became a household name, Hasbro developed a prototype in 1964 to test the concept of a “military action figure” rather than a “doll.”
This prototype, which helped launch the entire action figure industry, has been sold at auction for over $200,000. As the very first action figure, its value comes from its historical importance and extreme rarity.
5. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1988) – Up to $10,000
The original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) figures from Playmates Toys in 1988 were a huge success. However, certain versions, such as first-run prototypes or factory-sealed rarities, have sold for up to $10,000.
Figures that still have their original accessories and packaging, especially rare variants like Scratch the Cat, are among the most valuable TMNT collectibles today.
6. Masters of the Universe He-Man (1982) – Up to $25,000
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe was one of the most iconic toy lines of the 1980s. While standard versions of He-Man are widely available, early first-edition figures or ones with unique production variations can fetch a high price.
A mint-on-card 1982 He-Man figure has sold for as much as $25,000 at auction, proving that 80s nostalgia is still alive and well among collectors.
7. Blue Snaggletooth (Star Wars) – $10,000
The Blue Snaggletooth figure is another famous Star Wars collectible. Originally included in the Cantina Adventure Set by Kenner, the figure was supposed to be short and red but was mistakenly produced as tall and blue due to an error.
Once the mistake was caught, Kenner corrected the figure, making the blue version extremely rare. In mint condition, a Blue Snaggletooth can sell for up to $10,000.
8. LJN Wrestling Figures – Up to $50,000
For wrestling fans, LJN’s WWF Wrestling Superstars figures from the 1980s are highly collectible. Some rare variants, including those featuring different outfits or unique mold changes, have been sold for tens of thousands of dollars.
A complete collection of these figures in their original packaging has been valued at over $50,000.
9. 1985 Transformers Optimus Prime – Over $12,000
The original Optimus Prime figure from Hasbro’s 1985 Transformers line is a must-have for fans of the franchise. A first-edition, factory-sealed Optimus Prime has sold for over $12,000, making it one of the most valuable Transformers collectibles.
Transformers figures remain popular, and pristine versions of classic characters like Megatron, Starscream, and Soundwave also fetch high prices.
10. Star Wars Double-Telescoping Lightsaber Figures – Over $75,000
Early Star Wars action figures featuring double-telescoping lightsabers—such as Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, and Obi-Wan Kenobi—are among the rarest collectibles from the franchise. These figures were part of Kenner’s first wave but were quickly changed to a simpler design.
Because of their rarity, a double-telescoping Luke Skywalker figure has been sold for over $75,000 at auction.
What Makes Action Figures So Valuable?
Several key factors contribute to an action figure’s high value:
- Rarity – Limited production runs, early prototypes, and factory mistakes make some figures extremely rare.
- Condition – Mint-condition figures, especially those still in their original packaging, are worth significantly more.
- Popularity – Figures from major franchises like Star Wars, Transformers, and G.I. Joe tend to be in higher demand.
- Historical Significance – Prototypes and first-edition figures that played a role in toy history often sell for record prices.
Conclusion: Should You Start Collecting Action Figures?
Whether you collect for nostalgia, investment, or pure enjoyment, action figures can be a rewarding hobby. While not every figure will become a valuable collectible, careful selection and proper storage can help preserve their worth over time.
If you have old figures in your collection, it might be worth checking their value—you could be holding onto a small fortune without even realizing it.
