15 Vintage Puzzles Worth a Puzzling Fortune
Vintage jigsaw puzzles are not just nostalgic entertainment; they also double as lucrative investments with impressive price tags. Certain puzzles — especially those stemming from limited production runs, unique designs, or ties to historic moments in pop culture — have become hidden gems among collectors.
Whether it’s their craftsmanship, rarity, or the story behind them, these puzzles are worth far more than their original price. Here are 15 of the rarest and most expensive ones on the market.
1. Par Puzzles’ ‘Clubroom Collection’
Custom-made for an affluent clientele in the ’30s, these jigsaw puzzles feature personalized designs, shapes, or themes that included things like family crests, wedding pictures, and famous artwork. Their quality and exclusivity make them some of the most expensive (and exclusive) puzzles on the market. Rare pieces, especially those from the “Clubroom Collection,” have been known to sell for thousands, like this “Windswept” set that’s going for over $3,500.
2. Stave’s Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles
Stave’s handmade wooden puzzles are famous for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and durable craftsmanship. Dubbed the “Rolls Royce of wooden jigsaw puzzles,” the brand’s “Tree Lot” series, which features quirky and mind-bending themes, is especially prized among collectors. In good or mint condition, these sets can sell for over a grand.
3. Springbok Jackson Pollock ‘Convergence’ Puzzle
This 1965 puzzle, which featured Jackson Pollock’s abstract painting “Convergence,” is considered a goldmine among Pollock fans. Notoriously difficult to complete (imagine trying to figure out a 340-piece puzzle filled with chaotic splashes of color) adds to its appeal, especially among those who appreciate a challenge. In good condition, it can sell for more than $200.
4. Tower Press The Beatles’ ‘Yellow Submarine’ Puzzle
Also released in the 1960s, this puzzle showcases artwork from The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine” album. Its connection to one of the most iconic and beloved bands in history coupled with the psychedelic and vibrant art style make it a rare gem among collectors. In good condition (even used), it can fetch upwards of $300, especially among music memorabilia collectors.
5. Waddingtons’ ‘The Mona Lisa’ Puzzle
This mid-century puzzle featuring Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” is another favorite among vintage art and puzzle aficionados. Its finely cut wooden pieces set it apart from mass-produced cardboard puzzles. New ones sell for around $70, but if you’re loath to assembling, you can buy this completed one that’s already framed for $200. But where’s the fun in that?
6. Walt Disney’s ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ Puzzle
Released alongside Disney’s first feature film in 1938, this puzzle is a piece of movie history. Its hand-painted illustrations make it a rare find today, with complete sets in mint condition selling for close to $300.
7. Victory Gold Box Wooden Puzzles
Known for their fine craftsmanship, Victory puzzles from the late 1930s and ’40s were known for depicting picturesque landscapes, idyllic villages, and historical events (like this limited-edition set that depicts D-Day, allied fighter pilots mid-flight). The wooden pieces, which are are intricately cut, add to their charm and value among collectors. In mint condition, sets have been known to sell for around $200, depending on the year and design.
8. Milton Bradley’s Magnum ‘Grand Canyon’ Puzzle
Part of a series celebrating U.S. national parks, this 2,000-piece puzzle was produced in the mid-20th century. Its scenic depiction of the Grand Canyon, coupled with its quality and enduring craftsmanship, make it a hot commodity among collectors. Complete, undamaged sets can sell for around $100.
9. Ravensburger ‘Historical Map’ Puzzle
Produced by acclaimed puzzle-maker Ravensburger, this elaborate 18,000-piece map puzzle is a favorite among history buffs for its detailed design and depiction of classic cartography. In good condition, sets can sell for upwards of $350, while unopened sets can command much more (around $600).
10. Springbok ‘Christmas Coca Cola’ Puzzle
This promotional puzzle from the ’40s features Haddon Sundblom’s acclaimed Santa Claus artwork, which were famously featured in Coca-Cola’s holiday ads. Its festive charm, nostalgic appeal, and connection to one of the most famous soda brands in the world make it a cherished find among collectors. And there’s good news — many of these sets are currently on sale.
11. Parker Brothers’ ‘Clue Mystery Puzzle’
Doubling as a mystery-solving game, this puzzle from the ’60s adds a fun twist to traditional puzzling. Its crossover appeal of interactive gameplay with classic board game elements makes it a popular collectible, with even used puzzles commanding prices of around $50.
12. The Rubik’s Cube Puzzle Ball
This rare variation of the classic Rubik’s Cube from 1982 is another popular find among puzzle collectors and cube enthusiasts. Its spherical design and limited production make it a standout piece, with well-kept sets selling for $150 and above.
13. Whitman’s Disney-Themed Puzzles
Featuring illustrations of A.A. Milne’s beloved characters from the ’60s like Winnie the Pooh, Snow White, and Mickey Mouse, this series’ nostalgic charm and lasting legacy add to its appeal among vintage storybook and puzzle enthusiasts. Complete sets can sell for anywhere from just $20 to over $100, depending on the year and condition.
14. Hallmark ‘Pac-Man’ Puzzle
Capitalizing on the video game craze from the late ’80s and early ’90s, this puzzle from Hallmark depicts scenes from the acclaimed arcade-turned-vintage-game. Its retro theme and unique connection to gaming history make it a valuable collectible. In mint condition, a complete set can sell for around $100 or more, especially among retro gaming fans.
15. ‘What a Wonderful World’ Puzzle
Marketed as the largest commercially-available puzzle at the time, this 60,000-piece monster from 1982 was a hot ticket item when it first came out. Its sheer size (it’s literally bigger than my living room) and ambitious design make it a standout among vintage memorabilia collectors. Complete, unused versions have been known to sell for upwards of $700.