10 Vintage Erector Sets That Made Collectors Drop Thousands

Introduced in 1913 by A.C. Gilbert, Erector sets allowed children to build working models of everything from bridges to locomotives using metal beams, gears, and motors. Dubbed “the toy that builds intelligence,” Erector sets became a staple in households during the early to mid-20th century, combining fun with hands-on engineering lessons. Today, vintage Erector sets are highly collectible, with some rare models fetching eye-popping prices at auctions.
From elaborate skyscraper kits to motorized wonders, these are the most valuable vintage Erector sets we could find.
1. Gilbert Erector Set No. 10

Sold for: $1,900
First introduced in the early 20th century, the #10 Erector Set by A.C. Gilbert was packed with hundreds of metal parts, gears, pulleys, and even a working motor, allowing young builders to create elaborate models like cranes, bridges, and Ferris wheels. Its sturdy steel construction and limitless possibilities made it a favorite among aspiring inventors.
2. Gilbert 1929 No. 9 Erector Mechanical Wonders Set

Sold for: $1,900
Packed with an impressive assortment of parts, including gears, pulleys, and girders, the Gilbert No. 9 Erector Mechanical Wonders Set allowed builders to create intricate mechanical models like elevators, drawbridges, and spinning carousels. Its highlight was the addition of a small electric motor, bringing creations to life with motion — a revolutionary feature for the time. Celebrated for its ingenuity and durable design, the No. 9 set remains a prized collector’s item.
3. Gilbert No. 8 Erector Zeppelin Set

Sold for: $1,900
The A.C. Gilbert No. 8 Erector Zeppelin Set was a standout among the brand’s iconic construction kits, offering young builders the thrill of assembling their own airship. Released during the late 1920s and early 1930s, the set included lightweight metal parts and curved components designed to replicate the sleek lines of a Zeppelin. Builders could construct impressive models with moving parts, thanks to the inclusion of a motor.
4. Gilbert No. 8-1/2 Erector Hudson Engine & Tender

Sold for: $1,300
Released in the 1930s, the Gilbert No. 8-1/2 Erector Hudson Engine & Tender set allowed young builders to assemble a detailed replica of the iconic Hudson locomotive and its tender, complete with metal parts, intricate gears, and a functional motor to bring the train to life.
5. 1926 Gilbert No. 7-1/2 Erector Set

Price: $1,300
The A.C. Gilbert No. 7-1/2 Erector Set includes rare truck components like four cast iron wheels with black rubber tires and angle girders, adding to its distinct appeal. The box features an original wooden tray for organization and comes with four reproduction part boxes, along with two original catalogs — The New 1927 Erector Engineering Thrills and The New Erector.
6. Gilbert 10093 Walking Robot Erector Set

Sold for: $1,150
Released in the mid-20th century, this Erector set allowed users to construct a motorized walking robot, complete with articulated legs and a unique mechanical stride. Featuring precision-engineered metal parts and a detailed instruction manual, it exemplified Gilbert’s commitment to inspiring creativity and technical skills. The 10093 Walking Robot Erector Set remains a favorite among vintage toy collectors, prized for its forward-thinking design and its ability to bring a touch of science fiction to the classic Erector series.
7. Erector No. A Locomotive Set

Sold for: $950
The Erector No. A Locomotive Set was a classic addition to A.C. Gilbert’s celebrated lineup. Housed in a sturdy metal case, the set featured steel parts, gears, and other components for assembling a detailed engine complete with a tender. Its design captured the industrial spirit of the early 20th century, while the inclusion of a motor added motion made it a standout in the world of construction toys.
8. Gilbert No. 5 Mysto Magic Show Set

Sold for: $700
Packed in a compact, colorful box, this Erector set included a variety of props such as cards, rings, and trick coins, along with an instruction booklet detailing numerous magic tricks to amaze audiences. Introduced in the early 20th century, the Mysto Magic line was part of A.C. Gilbert’s efforts to combine education with entertainment.
9. 1912 The Mysto Erector

Sold for: $495
The 1912 Mysto Erector set was the precursor to the iconic Erector brand, marking A.C. Gilbert’s first foray into construction toys. Packaged under the Mysto Manufacturing Company name, this early set included metal beams, gears, and screws. The Mysto Erector’s innovative design and detailed instructions set it apart, laying the foundation for what would become one of the most beloved construction toy lines in history.
10. 1935 Gilbert No. 6 1/2 Skyscraper Erector Set

Sold for: $400
The Gilbert No. 6-1/2 Skyscraper Erector Set brought the towering ambition of the Art Deco era into the hands of young builders. Designed to construct impressive skyscrapers and other architectural marvels, the set included durable steel girders, plates, pulleys, and a motor to bring creations to life.