Nikole Stewart
Action figures might seem like simple toys from your childhood, but they’re actually quite valuable. Especially if you come across a few of these rare action figures that collectors have searched far and wide for. While we’ve covered several valuable and rare action figures on this page, let’s dive into a complete list of the top five from a variety of franchises and brands.
5. Hulk Hogan Prototype
Hulk Hogan is a pop culture icon. There was something about the wrestling action figures that was worth thousands and thousands of dollars. For Hulk Hogan, his prototype has been seen to sell for $49,999, a substantial amount. His action figures were around in the mid-80s and were popular rubber band action figures, part of the same line as Randy “Macho Man” Savage and Andre the Giant.
4. Vlix
Moving on to one of the biggest franchises today, with some of the most valuable action figures ever, is Star Wars. Starting off strong, we have one that has sold for $60,000. From the short-running TV show, Star Wars: Droids, we have Vlix. When the show was released, Kenner had the rights to make a few toy molds, but the series was canceled before they could really finish. However, Glasslite grabbed the mold and produced Vlix, without authority, before they were shut down. There are only about 20,000 of the action figures around, making them extremely rare and valuable.
3. Obi-Wan Kenobi
While this rare Obi-Wan Kenobi figurine was sold along with a Darth Vader one, the former came out on top as being the most valuable. The two were made in 1978 and featured telescopic light sabers. However, the creators of the action figures, Kenner, quickly simplified it and changed out the lightsaber design, making these hard to find. Because of that, Obi-Wan Kenobi sold for $65,000, while the Darth Vader one reached $55,000.
2. Handmade Prototype G.I. Joe
Another rare action figure that is worth some serious cash is the handmade prototype for the popular action figure, G.I. Joe. The 1963 design went on auction back in 2003 to a private buyer who purchased the handmade creation for $200,000.
1. Rocket-Firing Boba Fett
Of course, it might come as no shock that Star Wars leads as the most expensive and rare action figure to ever sell. This Rocket-Firing Boba Fett was never mass-produced, as many found issues with the rocket-firing system. Because of that, it’s hard to come across these, and collectors are always trying to complete their sets with this iconic figurine. Now, you’ll likely find one for over $200,000, as one sold for $204,435 at Hake’s Auction back in 2022.