Collecting soft toys, or plushies, has become a popular hobby—and for some, it’s a serious investment. Certain soft toys can appreciate in value over time, especially those that are limited edition, come from well-known brands, or have unique features. Here are some of the best types of soft toys worth investing in:
1. Build-A-Bear Limited Editions
- Why They’re Worth the Investment: Build-A-Bear regularly releases limited-edition plush toys tied to events, holidays, or popular franchises (e.g., Star Wars, Harry Potter, Disney). These often sell out quickly and can become valuable collectibles in the resale market.
- Investment Potential: Build-A-Bear plushies, especially those associated with special anniversaries or characters from popular series, tend to increase in value once they’re no longer available in stores.
- Example: A Star Wars Build-A-Bear plush like Yoda or a special anniversary bear.
2. Steiff Bears
- Why They’re Worth the Investment: Steiff is one of the oldest and most prestigious plush toy manufacturers. Their teddy bears, often handcrafted with the highest quality materials, are highly collectible. The brand also produces limited-edition and artist-designed bears that are extremely valuable.
- Investment Potential: Steiff bears are considered premium collectibles, and older or rare bears can fetch thousands of dollars at auctions.
- Example: The Steiff “Teddy Baby” Bear, or limited edition Steiff bears like the “Steiff 125th Anniversary Bear.”
3. Ty Beanie Babies
- Why They’re Worth the Investment: In the 1990s, Beanie Babies became a massive collectible craze. While not all Beanie Babies are worth a fortune, certain ones—especially rare or misprinted versions—are still highly sought after by collectors.
- Investment Potential: If you have rare Beanie Babies in mint condition with the original tags, you could see some impressive returns. Certain special edition Beanies can go for hundreds or even thousands.
- Example: The Princess Diana Beanie Baby (purple bear) or any bear with an error on its tag.
4. Disney Plush Toys (Especially Limited Editions)
- Why They’re Worth the Investment: Disney plush toys, particularly limited-edition ones tied to movies, anniversaries, or theme park releases, are incredibly popular with collectors. Disney is a brand with a massive fan base, and many people collect plush versions of their favorite characters.
- Investment Potential: Limited-edition Disney plush toys, especially those released in small quantities or exclusive park editions, often appreciate in value.
- Example: The Disney Parks Exclusive plush or limited-edition plush from films like Frozen 2 or The Lion King.
5. Cabbage Patch Kids
- Why They’re Worth the Investment: Cabbage Patch Kids were the must-have toys of the 1980s and have remained collectible ever since. The original dolls—especially those from the 1983 launch—can be worth quite a bit, especially if they’re in good condition with the original box and birth certificate.
- Investment Potential: Cabbage Patch Kids from the early years are the most valuable. Some limited-edition or rare models can fetch hundreds of dollars.
- Example: A First Edition Cabbage Patch Kid with the original box.
6. Squishmallows (Special Editions and Rarer Versions)
- Why They’re Worth the Investment: Squishmallows, the super-soft plushies, have exploded in popularity. Some special edition Squishmallows, especially those tied to specific holidays, characters, or collaborations, are in high demand and can resell for a premium.
- Investment Potential: Limited-edition Squishmallows, especially those released in small batches or tied to viral trends, can become valuable collectibles.
- Example: The Squishmallow 16” Halloween Collection or rare characters like the Cammie the Cat.
7. Gund Plush Toys (Especially Limited Editions and Artist Bears)
- Why They’re Worth the Investment: Gund has been around for over a century, making high-quality plush toys. Limited-edition or artist-designed Gund bears and characters often gain value over time.
- Investment Potential: Older Gund bears or special designer releases are highly valued by collectors.
- Example: The Gund “Snoopy” plush or any rare Gund collectible bear.
8. The Teddy Bears of the World (Artist Bears)
- Why They’re Worth the Investment: Some artist-designed teddy bears, produced by independent designers and small companies, are very high quality and often produced in limited quantities. These bears are more expensive than mass-produced ones, but their rarity makes them valuable to collectors.
- Investment Potential: Limited-edition artist bears made from luxury fabrics and with unique features often increase in value, especially if they are handmade by renowned designers.
- Example: Charlie Bears or Margarete Steiff limited-edition artist bears.
Tips for Collecting Plush Toys as Investments:
- Condition is Key: To ensure a high resale value, keep toys in mint condition, ideally still in their original packaging, and store them in a dust-free, temperature-controlled environment.
- Rarity: Limited editions or toys tied to major cultural moments (e.g., anniversaries, movie releases) tend to increase in value.
- Do Your Research: Follow the current trends in the collectibles market and stay updated on upcoming releases. Sometimes, the best investments are the ones that are just about to hit the market.
Do any of these types of soft toys catch your eye for a potential investment?
