In the late 1990s, a new electronic companion burst onto the scene, captivating children and adults alike. The Furby, created by David Hampton, Caleb Chung, and Richard C. Levy, was inspired by the popular Tamagotchi toy.
First debuting at FAO Schwartz in New York in October 1998, over 1.8 million Furbies were sold that year, with numbers skyrocketing to 14 million by 1999. Initially priced at $35, resellers quickly began selling them for hundreds of dollars. As we explore the world of vintage Furbies and their collectible value, you’ll discover what makes these electronic pets so valuable today.
By understanding the factors that contribute to a Furby’s worth, you’ll be able to determine if your vintage toy is a treasured collectible or a nostalgic keepsake.
The Furby Phenomenon: A Brief History
The year 1998 marked the beginning of the Furby craze, a toy that would capture the hearts of many. Furbies were more than just a fad; they represented a technological innovation in the electronic pet market. Created by a team of three inventors, these interactive toys combined cute designs with the ability to “learn” English over time, revolutionizing the way children and adults interacted with electronic pets.
From 1998 to Today: The Evolution of Furby
Over the years, Furbies have undergone significant transformations. Initially, the fad lasted for a few years, but the toy experienced several reboots. In 2012, a new version was successfully introduced with advanced capabilities, including the ability to develop different personalities based on how they were raised. This edition was priced at $54 per unit. Subsequent iterations included various models such as Furby Party Rocker, Furblings, and Furby Connect, catering to a new generation of children and collectors alike.
Why Original Furbies Have Become Collectibles
Today, original Furbies from the 90s are highly sought after, driven by demand from collectors. The limited production number of certain models, coupled with the passage of time, has contributed to their increased value. As a result, these vintage toys have become a prized addition to any collection, with many enthusiasts seeking to relive their childhood memories or start a new hobby. For more insights into the world of Furbies, you can visit this page to learn about what makes them special.
What Makes an Original Furby Valuable?
To understand what makes an original Furby valuable, we need to consider a few important aspects. The value of a vintage Furby is determined by a combination of its rarity, condition, and the presence of original packaging and accessories.
Rarity and Limited Editions
Rare or limited edition Furbies tend to be worth more than their common counterparts. These unique models are hard to come by, and their scarcity increases their demand and value. For instance, limited edition Furbies, such as those produced for special promotions or events, can command higher prices due to their exclusivity. You can explore more about the value of original Furbies on Furby Toy Shop.
Condition Matters
The condition of your vintage Furby significantly impacts its value. Furbies in excellent condition, with minimal wear and functional electronics, are worth more than those showing signs of deterioration. This principle applies to most collectibles, where mint condition items are highly prized by collectors.
Original Packaging and Accessories
Having the original packaging and accessories can substantially increase your Furby’s value. The better the condition of the box and included items, such as instruction manuals and tags, the more valuable your Furby becomes. Unopened packaging, in particular, can significantly boost the value, with some Furbies selling for 3-4 times their value without packaging. For example, the White Furby’s features and insights can be explored further on Antonio’s of Beacon Hill, highlighting the importance of condition and packaging.
| Factor | Impact on Value |
|---|---|
| Rarity and Limited Editions | Increases value due to scarcity |
| Condition | Mint condition increases value |
| Original Packaging and Accessories | Significantly boosts value, especially if unopened |
Original Furby Value by Generation
The generation of a Furby is a crucial factor in determining its collectibility and worth. As a collector or enthusiast, understanding the different generations and their characteristics can help you identify the value of your vintage Furby.
Generation One (1998-1999): The Most Collectible
Generation One Furbies, with their distinctive eyes and classic design, are highly sought after by collectors. These early models came in a variety of colors and fur patterns, including rare variations like Tuxedo, Witch’s Cat, and Church Mouse.
Some of the most common Generation One Furbies include Snowy White, Sunny Yellow, and Baby Blue. These models are relatively easy to find because they were among the first lots to hit store shelves.
Generation Two and Three: Rising in Value
Generation Two and Three Furbies have been gaining value over time, particularly special edition models. These Furbies introduced new colors and designs, such as Giraffe, Owl, and Tiger, and some rare variations like Clown and Very Purple/Grape.
While later generations may not be as valuable as the originals, certain models and types can still be worth a significant amount. The condition, age, and rarity of the Furby all play a role in determining its value.
| Generation | Notable Models | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Generation One | Tuxedo, Witch’s Cat, Snowball | $100-$500 |
| Generation Two | Giraffe, Owl, Tiger | $50-$200 |
| Generation Three | Elephant, Gorilla, Lamb | $30-$150 |
The Most Valuable Original Furby: The Bejewelled Furby
The Bejewelled Furby stands out as a masterpiece among Furby collectors, boasting unparalleled value and luxury. Released in October 1999, this extraordinary Furby was not just a toy but a dazzling piece of art, adorned with 156 Swarovski crystals and a mix of precious gems like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.
The $100,000 Gem-Encrusted Masterpiece
This limited edition Furby was exclusive to FAO Schwarz, and only five were ever made. The original retail price was a jaw-dropping $100,000, which is over $180,000 today when adjusted for inflation! It’s no wonder that this Furby is considered the most expensive of all time.
Why It’s So Rare and Valuable
The Bejewelled Furby’s value lies in its extreme rarity and the luxurious materials used. Here are some key facts:
- I’m absolutely fascinated by the Bejewelled Furby, which stands as the most valuable Furby ever created with an original price tag of $100,000 – a figure that would be even higher in today’s dollars.
- This extraordinary limited edition piece was adorned with 156 genuine Swarovski crystals along with real diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, making it more jewelry than toy.
- Only five of these gem-encrusted masterpieces were ever produced, and they were sold exclusively through FAO Schwarz in October 1999, creating an instant collector’s item.
The extreme rarity and luxurious materials make the Bejewelled Furby not just the most valuable Furby, but one of the most expensive toys ever produced, representing the peak of Furby collectibility.
The Rarest Furby of All Time: Rainbow Furby
In the world of Furby collectibles, the Rainbow Furby is a gem that shines brightly. This extraordinary Furby was the result of a design competition held by Tiger Electronics and Post Consumer Brands in 2000, where children were invited to submit their own Furby designs.
The Story Behind the Design Competition
The competition was a unique opportunity for kids to showcase their creativity, and one lucky winner, Brittany from Missouri, had her design chosen as the Rainbow Furby. She received two of these colorful creatures—one to keep sealed and one to play with. The Rainbow Furby’s distinctive eye colors and beautiful rainbow color scheme made it a standout piece.
Current Value and Collector Interest
With only three known units in existence, the Rainbow Furby is officially the rarest Furby toy of all time, making it highly valuable to collectors. Unfortunately, one of Brittany’s Furbies was allegedly stolen by her brother and sold on eBay, but the sale price remains a mystery. The current market value for a Rainbow Furby is almost impossible to determine, but collectors speculate it would fetch a price far above others in the Furby market if one ever became available.
Kid Cuisine Furby: A Promotional Treasure
As a promotional treasure, the Kid Cuisine Furby has gained significant attention in collector circles. This limited edition Furby was created as a special promotion for Kid Cuisine, a brand of frozen meals aimed at kids. To get this unique toy, you had to buy Kid Cuisine meals and send in proof of purchase.
How It Was Obtained
The Kid Cuisine Furby was only available through a special promotion where families had to collect proofs of purchase from Kid Cuisine frozen meals and mail them in. This process brought a fun connection between food and toys, making it a memorable experience for many.
Current Market Value
With only about 500 Kid Cuisine Furbies ever produced, they’ve become incredibly scarce. I’ve seen them sell in a price range from $500 for used models to an astonishing $2,500 for sealed examples. The value of this Furby is not just monetary; it’s also a piece of nostalgia that many cherish. For more information on other Furby-related issues, you can visit this site.
The Kid Cuisine Furby’s distinctive appearance, with its bright blue and yellow colors and unique feature of coming with either blue or green eyes, makes it especially interesting to collectors. Its rarity and the nostalgia associated with it have transformed this promotional item into a serious collectible, highly valued on the market today.
Special Edition Furbies and Their Values
Among the most fascinating aspects of Furby collecting are the special editions, each with its unique charm and value. These limited-edition Furbies were released with distinctive features, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Hi-C Furby: The Spotted Rarity
The Hi-C Furby, released in February 1999, is a rare gem with only 5,000 units produced. Its unique feature is the random black spots on its fur, making each Hi-C Furby different. This special edition Furby is highly valued by collectors due to its rarity and distinct design.
Angel Furby: Heavenly Collectible
The Angel Furby, released in 2000, is a beautiful special edition with white wings and a golden halo. It features special phrases related to its heavenly theme, making it a charming collectible. With only about 14,000 units made, it’s a rare find for collectors.
Tropical Furby: Vacation-Ready Value
The Tropical Furby is dressed for a vacation with cool shades, sandals, and an orange aloha shirt. Exclusively sold at Toys R Us stores, this Furby’s limited production run of 36,000 units adds to its charm and value.
President Furby: Political Collectible
The President Furby is dressed in a sharp black suit with a U.S.A. flag and “Furby for President” badges. Its unique voice lines, such as “Me President!” make it a fun political collectible. With only 36,000 units produced, it’s quite rare and valuable.
Jester and Royal Furbies: Court Jesters and Monarchs
The Jester Furby, released in November 1999, stands out with its vibrant clown outfit and playful colors. Only 72,000 units were made, making it rare today. The Royal Furby, released in April 2000, is a sight to behold with its bejeweled gown and golden crown. It’s also known as King Furby among fans and was the last Furby to hit the shelves globally.
How to Identify If Your Furby Is Valuable
Uncovering the worth of your Furby involves checking for specific traits that set it apart from more common versions. To determine if your Furby is valuable, you’ll need to examine its characteristics and history.
Physical Characteristics to Look For
When examining your Furby, look for distinctive physical characteristics, such as unique eye colors or designs. Certain rare Furbies have features that can immediately indicate they might be worth hundreds of dollars. Check the fur color, markings, accessories, and any special design elements that might distinguish it from others produced during the 90s.
Serial Numbers and Manufacturing Details
Serial numbers and manufacturing details can reveal a lot about your vintage Furby’s age and production run. I recommend checking these against trusted collector sources and sites from the comfort of your home to verify authenticity. Original packaging also adds significant value to any collectible Furby, so if you’ve kept the box, that’s a very good thing for potential value.
Determining Your Furby’s Worth
To find out how much your Furby is worth, you’ll need to consider several key factors. The value of a Furby can be influenced by its condition, rarity, and the current market demand.
When it comes to determining the value, there are a couple of approaches you can take. You can either use online resources or opt for a professional appraisal.
Online Resources for Valuation
Online auction sites like eBay provide a wealth of information on the current market value of Furbies. By researching completed sales, you can get an accurate idea of what collectors are willing to pay. It’s essential to provide clear photos and a detailed description of your Furby’s condition when selling online.
- Research across multiple sites to understand the price range.
- Check completed sales on online auction sites.
- Consider the condition and rarity of your Furby.
Professional Appraisal Options
For rare or particularly valuable Furbies, a professional appraisal can be beneficial. Experts can provide documentation that helps maximize your selling price. They have the knowledge and experience to assess your Furby’s value accurately.
| Appraisal Method | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Online Research | Using online auction sites and marketplaces to determine value. | Provides current market data. |
| Professional Appraisal | Getting an expert opinion on your Furby’s value. | Accurate valuation and documentation. |
Maximizing Your Vintage Furby’s Value: Best Selling Platforms and Tips
To maximize your vintage Furby’s value, choosing the right online marketplace is crucial. Research your Furby’s specific model and its current market value first.
When selling, provide clear, high-quality photos and a detailed description of your Furby’s condition, special features, and history to enhance its appeal. Consider selling on platforms like eBay or specialized collector sites to attract serious buyers willing to pay premium prices for rare Furbies, especially special editions.
Timing your sale around holidays or when media coverage boosts 90s nostalgia can also impact your Furby’s final value.
