15 Things From the 1980s That Have Skyrocketed in Value
From neon leg warmers to cassette tapes, the ’80s were a decade of bold fashion, groundbreaking technology (for its time), and pop culture explosions. But what many don’t realize is that some of the items from this indelible era are now worth serious dough. Whether due to nostalgia, rarity, or cultural significance, these treasures have become bonafide gems for collectors of vintage memorabilia. Here are over a dozen 1980s collectibles that could be sitting in your attic, waiting to make you rich.
1. Original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
Launched in 1983, the NES revolutionized gaming by bringing classics like “Super Mario Bros” and “The Legend of Zelda” into living rooms worldwide. Today, used NES consoles can fetch hundreds of dollars (about $200 on eBay) thanks to their status as the OG console that started it all. They’re worth even more if you own a brand new set.
Even loose video game consoles and cartridges in “good” or “fair” condition can be highly collectible, especially for rarer games like “Stadium Events” or “Nintendo World Championships.”
2. Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ Jacket
The red leather jacket worn by Michael Jackson in the “Thriller” music video is considered to be one of the most iconic pieces of pop culture memorabilia. While the original was auctioned for nearly $2 million ($1.8 million to be exact), replicas and related merchandise from the era can still command high prices thanks to Jackson’s fanbase and enduring legacy as the King of Pop.
And if you happen to own a “Thriller” album signed by Jackson, it could be worth a goldmine (as in upwards of $20k!)
3. First Edition Transformers Toys
Before Shia LaBeouf and Megan Fox made giant robots cool on the big screen, the “Transformers” franchise first took off in the ’80s. Original G1 (first generation) toys are considered ultra-rare and valuable among collectors, with mint-condition, unopened figures like Optimus Prime, Grimlock, Jetfire, and Starscream selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
4. Vintage Swatch Watches
Celebrated for their colorful designs and affordable prices, Swatch watches were all the rage in the ’80s. Today, limited-edition models, like the “Kiki Picasso” or “Jellyfish,” are now highly prized and can command prices reaching into the thousands.
5. Original Apple Macintosh 128K
Released by Apple in 1984, the Macintosh 128K was a game-changer at the time (albeit a bit clunky by today’s standards). Fast forward to today, and it’s a rare gem for tech enthusiasts — especially if it still works and comes in its original box. But even previously-owned “used” models can sell for upwards of $2,000. As the first computer to introduce a graphical user interface to the masses, it paved the way for everything from modern PCs to smartphones.
6. Air Jordan 1 Sneakers
The Air Jordan 1 line debuted in 1985 and sparked a whole new obsession among sneakerheads. The original colors, such as the “Bred” (black and red) and “Chicago” (red and white), are considered ultra-rare and can sell for nearly 50 grand — especially if they’re brand new (please don’t buy used sneakers because barf).
Their cultural impact and association with Michael Jordan’s illustrious NBA career make them a holy grail for both basketball and sneaker fans, and are now one of the most expensive shoes out there.
7. Cabbage Patch Kids Dolls
Cabbage Patch Kids, with their stringy hair and doe eyes, were the must-have toy of the ’80s. Sparking absolute mayhem in toy stores across the U.S, some of these vintage dolls (especially rare or limited-edition versions) can be worth a pretty penny today. If you own one that comes with all its original birth certificates and adoption papers, it can be worth even more.
8. Vintage Comic Books (1980s Marvel/DC)
The 1980s were a golden age for comic books, with revered titles like “The Amazing Spider-Man #300” (featuring the first appearance of Venom) and “Batman: The Killing Joke” immediately coming to mind. First editions in mint condition can fetch thousands of dollars (over $20k on eBay), especially if they feature iconic storylines or include the debut of a new character.
9. Casio VL-Tone VL-1 Keyboard
This quirky keyboard from 1981 became a cult classic thanks to its built-in calculator and unmistakable bleep-bloop sound that defined the era’s electronics. Famously used in Trio’s hit song “Da Da Da,” this keyboard is now considered a nostalgic gem for music enthusiasts, with collectors willing to pay a premium (it retails for about $150) to own this piece of tech history.
10. Rubik’s Cube (Original 1980s Version)
When the Rubik’s Cube launched in 1980, it took the world by storm and quickly became the best-selling puzzle of all time. As such, original cubes from the early ’80s — especially those still in their original packaging — can sell for upwards of $130. Rare variants, like the Rubik’s Magic or Rubik’s Snake, are also considered highly valuable.
11. Vintage Band T-Shirts
Concert tees from iconic ’80s bands like Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and The Cure are now worth a small fortune among music aficionados and collectors of vintage memorabilia. Prized for their bold graphics and cultural significance, shirts from this era can easily sell for over a hundred dollars, with autographed tees going for much more.
12. Polaroid Cameras (SX-70 and 635 CL Series)
With the ability to turn every moment into a tangible memory within seconds, Polaroid cameras were all the rage in the ’80s. Today, models like the SX-70 and 635 CL series are celebrated for their retro appeal and connection to analog photography, with models in good working condition selling for several hundred dollars. Dubbed “the OG,” a refurbished SX-70 can sell for close to $400, while even “used” models in fair condition can sell for close to $100.
13. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe Action Figures
Known as the superheroes of the ’80s, He-Man and his allies are now highly collectible. Thanks to their nostalgic appeal, action figures like “Faker” or “Moss Man” in their original packaging can sell for a pretty penny (about $500) online. Wondering which other figurines are valuable? We’ve got you covered with our guides to valuable G.I. Joes and vintage figurines.
14. Vintage MTV Memorabilia
If you ask anyone who grew up in the ’80s, they’ll tell you that MTV was the decade when it came to pop culture, with bold statements in fashion, music, and larger-than-life hosts (also known as VJs or video jockeys). Today, vintage MTV merch like posters, T-shirts, and even VHS tapes of those early music videos has become a hot commodity for collectors.
Case in point: This autographed Pop Icon from the late ’80s that’s going for a whopping $1,100 on eBay.
15. Sony Walkman (Original TPS-L2)
Long before the reign of Spotify, the humble Walkman changed the game by making portable music a reality. Gone were the days of lugging around clunky boomboxes or being tied to the stereo at home thanks to this nifty Sony invention. The original TPS-L2 model, which was featured in “Guardians of the Galaxy,” is now a sought-after item for those who value vintage tech.
In good condition (or refurbished), you can expect to pay close to a grand for this relic.