Disney and blockbuster movies may have been at the forefront of VHS tape profits, but there are plenty of other valuable VHS tapes. A staple of the 80s and 90s, these pieces of technology and media have now become a hotspot for collectors, especially unopened or graded VHS tapes. Horror VHS tapes have always attracted attention, from their gory covers to the “over 18” certificate on the label. Today, they are a collector’s jewel. Check out these six valuable horror VHS tapes now, from well-known and more niche films.
6. Nightmare
Starting our list of valuable horror VHS tapes is Nightmare. Released in 1982, this VHS and several Planet Video titles are amongst the first “big box” videos. The slasher film and the Planet Video films are all quite rare, drawing a considerable amount of interest within collectors’ circles and premium prices. This VHS can earn nearly $300 based on its condition.
5. Warlock Moon
Fifth on our list of valuable horror VHS tapes is Warlock Moon. While it may seem unusual that VHS tapes have become so popular, this film offers a possible explanation. The VHS version of Warlock Moon is uncut, providing much more content and horror than the edited DVD release. There’s also an even rarer VHS version of the film with Spanish artwork, but they are usually worth around $300.
4. Tales from the Quadead Zone
Next on our list of valuable horror VHS tapes is Tales from the Quadead Zone. While there really isn’t a single reason why this VHS tape is so popular, ranging from the skull-themed artwork to the film itself, it is a rarity in the collector’s world. Released by BC Video, it has found its spot in the world of valuable VHS tapes, and in 2011, a copy sold for over $530 on eBay.
3. Halloween II
Rounding out the top three valuable horror VHS tapes is Halloween II, the sequel to the hit 1976 horror film Halloween. While the film was a box office success, it did receive mixed reviews from both viewers and critics. Halloween II got its first home video release on VHS in 1981. Since very few of the original tapes remain sealed, they have become a hotspot for collectors. A sealed and graded copy went for $15,000 at Heritage Auctions in 2022.
2. A Nightmare on Elm Street
Second on our list of valuable horror VHS tapes is A Nightmare on Elm Street. Released in 1984, the film was an immense hit, scaring just about everyone with the gruesome Freddy Krueger slashing his victims. The film was later brought to home video in 1985 on VHS and Laserdisc. Original copies today are a hot commodity in the collecting world, with first-release copies being the crown jewel. A graded and sealed copy sold for $15,000 in 2022.
1. The Return of the Living Dead
Last but not least on our valuable VHS tapes list is The Return of the Living Dead. A classic amongst horror enthusiasts, the film introduced many popular concepts to the zombie genre, like eating brains and being invulnerable to gunshot wounds. While it is relatively easy to find a VHS copy of the film, a sealed copy in quality condition is nearly impossible. One such copy went on the market in 2022 and sold for a whopping $18,750.