Have you ever wondered if those old Littlest Pet Shop (LPS) toys collecting dust in your attic are worth any money? Well, you might be surprised to find out that some of these vintage LPS figurines can actually fetch a pretty penny in the collector’s market. From the iconic first-generation pets to rare and limited edition releases, certain older LPS toys have become sought-after treasures that enthusiasts are willing to pay top dollar for. So, if you happen to stumble upon a forgotten box of LPS toys from your childhood, it might just be your lucky day!
Factors that Determine the Value of Old LPS
When it comes to determining the value of old Littlest Pet Shop (LPS) toys, there are several factors to consider. These factors play a crucial role in determining the worth of a particular LPS toy. The key factors include rarity, condition, demand, age, and original packaging. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors to help you understand the value of your old LPS toys.
Rarity
Rarity is a significant factor that influences the value of old LPS toys. Certain LPS toys are considered rare due to limited editions, prototypes, and even error versions. Limited edition LPS toys are often produced in limited quantities, making them highly sought-after by collectors. Prototypes, on the other hand, are preliminary versions of the toy that were not intended for widespread release. Due to their limited availability, these prototypes often hold a higher value. Error versions, which include misprints or manufacturing mistakes, can also become valuable to collectors due to their rarity.
Condition
The condition of an old LPS toy is another crucial factor in determining its value. Mint condition LPS toys, which have been well-preserved and show minimal signs of wear or damage, tend to be more valuable. Collectors are willing to pay a premium for toys that are in excellent condition and still retain their original charm. However, LPS toys that are used and damaged may have a lower value, as they require restoration or may lack certain original components.
Demand
The demand for LPS toys plays a significant role in determining their value. Popularity among collectors and the general public can greatly influence the price of an old LPS toy. Some LPS toys have achieved legendary status and have a dedicated fan base, which drives up their value. Additionally, trends and fads can impact the demand for specific LPS toys, causing their prices to soar. It’s essential to keep track of collectors’ interests and the current market trends to gauge the demand for your old LPS toys accurately.
Age
Age is another factor to consider when determining the value of old LPS toys. Vintage LPS toys, which are from the earlier generations of the toy line, tend to hold more value than newer releases. These vintage toys often appeal to collectors who have a preference for the classics and are willing to pay a premium for them. Similarly, some LPS toys are considered antique due to their age, rarity, and historical significance. Antique LPS toys can be highly valuable, attracting serious collectors and enthusiasts.
Original Packaging
The original packaging of an old LPS toy can significantly impact its value. Toys that are still sealed in their original box or packaging are highly desirable among collectors. The untouched packaging ensures that the toy remains in pristine condition, increasing its value. Additionally, LPS toys that are complete with their original accessories hold more worth, as these accessories can be easily lost or damaged over time. Unopened blind bags, which provide an element of surprise, can also contribute to the value of an LPS toy.
Types of Old LPS with High Value
Several types of old LPS toys are known for their high value in the collector’s market. First generation LPS toys, which were released in the early 1990s, are highly sought-after among collectors due to their nostalgic appeal. These original LPS toys often fetch higher prices, especially if they are in excellent condition or come in their original packaging. Special Edition releases, which include collaboration sets or commemorative editions, can also hold significant value. These exclusive releases cater to a specific audience and are often produced in limited quantities. Lastly, rare character variations, such as different color schemes or design alterations, can significantly increase the value of an LPS toy.
Tips for Assessing the Value of Old LPS
If you’re looking to determine the value of your old LPS toys, here are some helpful tips to guide you:
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Researching Collectible LPS: Conduct thorough research on the LPS toys you possess. Explore collector forums, websites, and resources to gather information about the specific toys and their value.
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Consulting Price Guides: Utilize price guides that specialize in LPS toys. These guides provide insights into the current market value of various LPS toys based on their rarity, condition, and demand.
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Checking Online Marketplaces: Browse through online marketplaces, such as eBay or Etsy, to get an idea of the prices that similar LPS toys are selling for. Examine listings for comparable items to gauge the value of your own collection.
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Appraisal Services: Consider getting your old LPS toys appraised by professionals who specialize in collectibles. Appraisers can provide detailed assessments of the value of your toys based on their expertise and market knowledge.
Where to Sell Old LPS
Once you’ve assessed the value of your old LPS toys, you might be wondering where you can sell them. Here are some popular options:
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Online Auctions: Websites such as eBay offer a global platform to sell your LPS toys to a wide audience. Online auctions can allow you to fetch the highest possible price for your collectibles.
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Collectible Toy Stores: Local collectible toy stores often cater to avid collectors and enthusiasts. Consider reaching out to these stores to see if they are willing to purchase or consign your LPS toys.
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Online Marketplaces: Besides online auctions, platforms like Etsy, Amazon, and Facebook Marketplace provide opportunities to sell your old LPS toys to interested buyers.
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Social Media Groups: Join LPS-focused social media groups or communities where collectors frequently buy, sell, and trade their LPS toys. These groups can connect you with potential buyers who have a specific interest in LPS collectibles.
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Collector Conventions: Attend collector conventions or toy fairs dedicated to LPS and other collectibles. These events attract like-minded enthusiasts who may be interested in purchasing your old LPS toys.
Notable Examples of Valuable Old LPS
While the value of LPS toys varies, several notable examples have commanded high prices in the collector’s market:
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Original Blythe Dolls: These iconic dolls, which inspired the creation of LPS toys, are incredibly valuable to collectors. Vintage Blythe dolls, especially those in exceptional condition, can fetch thousands of dollars at auctions.
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Special Edition LPS Sets: Various special edition LPS sets have become highly collectible, attracting significant interest and commanding high prices. Limited releases, collaborations with popular brands, or exclusive themed sets often hold substantial value among collectors.
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Limited Edition LPS Pets: Certain limited edition LPS pets, such as rare color variations or animals associated with special events, have become highly sought-after. These unique pets often fetch high prices due to their scarcity and exclusivity.
In conclusion, old LPS toys can indeed hold value depending on factors such as rarity, condition, demand, age, and original packaging. Conducting research, consulting experts, and exploring different selling platforms can help you determine the value of your old LPS toys and find the right market to sell them. So why not go dig into your childhood memories and see if you have any hidden valuable treasures in the form of old LPS toys? You might be in for a delightful surprise!