10 Model Airplanes Worth Sky-High Amounts

A man in a light shirt is building a model airplane at a wooden table. He holds a small tool to work on the plane's fuselage. The room has stained glass windows, and various tools and parts are scattered across the table.
John Clutterbuck/istockphoto

Who said model airplanes are only for aviation enthusiasts? For some collectors, they’re worth spending a fortune on, especially if they’re tied to major historical events like World War II or the Space Race. From limited-edition replicas to vintage models no longer in production, these tiny planes can soar to sky-high values.

Whether due to their craftsmanship, rarity, or the story behind the real aircraft, here are 10 model airplanes that prove the sky’s the limit when it comes to their worth.

1. Dinky Supermarine Spitfire

A model WWII-era fighter plane with camouflage pattern and RAF roundels, mounted on a wooden stand. The plane's propeller is visible, and it is positioned on a wooden floor against a white wall.
eBay
eBay

Celebrated for its historical significance (the plane played a key role during air attacks in the Battle of Britain in 1940), this vintage model of the iconic fighter plane is a rare gem among collectors. Thanks to its legacy and the lasting appeal of Dinky Toys, versions in pristine condition — especially those still in their original packaging — can command around $200 online.

2. Iron Maiden Herpa Diecast Boeing 747-400

A model airplane styled after a Boeing 747. It features "Iron Maiden" and "The Book of Souls World Tour" on its side. The plane is mounted on a display stand, which is labeled "The Book of Souls.
eBay
eBay

This detailed replica of Iron Maiden’s custom plane from its “Book of Souls” world tour is another coveted item cherished by both fans of the band and aviation enthusiasts. Limited production runs, coupled with its unique connection to the legendary rock band, have elevated this model’s value to around $300 (with unopened sets commanding even more).

3. Corgi Avro Lancaster Bomber

Model of a World War II era Lancaster bomber aircraft in camouflage paint, marked with "AJ" and insignia on the fuselage, with four propellers and a clear cockpit, viewed from the front-left angle.
eBay
eBay

Known for its craftsmanship and fine detailing, this model of the WWII-era bomber is a collector’s dream. With only a limited number ever made, the scarcity drives up its value. Some rare editions, especially in mint condition, can sell for over $550.

4. Franklin Mint B-17 Flying Fortress

A detailed model of a military aircraft with green and brown camouflage paint is displayed inside a protective foam case. The model features four propellers and small insignia on the wings and tail.
eBay
eBay

This die-cast model is a detailed replica of the famous bomber that helped turn the tide in WWII. Complete with working parts like propellers and even landing gear, its value lies in its iconic status among military aviation history coupled with Franklin Mint’s reputation for making high-quality collectibles. Models in excellent condition can fetch over $700.

5. Tamiya P-51D Mustang Bomber

A detailed model of a P-51 Mustang aircraft with a silver body and colorful nose art, displayed on a wooden stand with a plaque. The model is placed on a wooden floor near a white wall.
eBay
eBay

A favorite among model-building enthusiasts, this kit is famous for its high detail and historical accuracy. Discontinued editions have become especially rare, making unopened kits extremely valuable and coveted. But collectors have been known to also fork over hundreds for completed sets, like this P-51D Mustang Glamorous Glen that’s going for over $300 on eBay.

6. Schabak Concorde British Airways

A model airplane in Singapore Airlines livery is displayed in a blue box. The design is sleek and aerodynamic, resembling a Concorde jet. The box has a partially seen label in the corner.
Etsy
Etsy

Considered a symbol of luxury and innovation in aviation history, this die-cast model of the supersonic jet is another treasured gem among collectors. Its limited production run and association with the now-retired Concorde have further boosted its value, with even used sets like this 1029/14 Schabak fetching over $100.

7. Herpa Wings’ Emirates A380

A boxed model kit of an Emirates Airbus A380-800 airplane. The box is red with a clear plastic window displaying the unassembled parts, including wings and fuselage, inside.
eBay
eBay

This replica of the Emirates A380 captures the world’s largest passenger plane in impressive detail, complete with engine turbines and realistic landing gear. Its connection to Emirates, which is known for its luxurious amenities and high-quality service, make it another collector’s favorite. Rare versions (especially unopened sets) can sell for around $200.

8. Airfix Handley Page Victor

Image of an Airfix model kit box for the Handley Page Victor B. Mk. 2 (BS). The box displays an illustration of the aircraft in flight. The kit's plastic parts and assembly instructions are visible inside the open box.
eBay
eBay

A classic from the Airfix brand, this model of the Cold War-era jet is both rare and steeped in history. Discontinued models in their original packaging are highly prized among collectors for their scarcity, with complete kits easily selling for over $100.

9. Hasegawa SR-71 Blackbird

A large RC plane model is resting on the hood of a red truck. The background features greenery and bare trees under a clear sky.
Etsy
Etsy

This limited-edition model of the legendary spy plane is known for its sleek design and massive size (it literally takes up the whole front hood of a truck!). Its mystique as one of the fastest planes ever built, coupled with the SR-71’s iconic place in aviation history, adds to its appeal among collectors. In mint or good condition, you can expect to pay over $400 for one.

10. Revell Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor

A model of a gray F-22 fighter jet is displayed on a black stand. The tail features detailed markings, including red, white, and blue stripes, and an emblem. The background is a plain white surface.
eBay
eBay

A modern fighter jet icon, this model is renowned for its detailed craftsmanship and accuracy. Discontinued kits and special editions are especially valuable to collectors, with unopened sets selling for over $400 and completed ones snagging over $100.

Author
Alina Wang

From Queens, New York, Alina has a Bachelors degree in Corporate Communications from CUNY Baruch and enjoys writing and creating content on a variety of topics, including lifestyle, politics, and, of course, wealth trends. Find her on X @atlasseventeen