Collecting vintage toy cars is a fun and rewarding hobby for people of all ages. These tiny cars bring back memories of childhood and can also be a great way to invest in something valuable. If you’re new to collecting or looking for some great vintage toy cars, this guide is for you. Below are the top picks of collectible toy cars that are popular among collectors.
Why Collect Toy Cars?
Collecting toy cars isn’t just about playing with them—it’s about preserving a piece of history. Many people start collecting because of the nostalgia tied to their favorite childhood toys. Others collect because vintage toy cars can be valuable and might increase in worth over time.
Top Collectible Toy Cars
1. Matchbox Cars (1950s-1970s)
Matchbox cars are small, detailed models that were originally sold in boxes the size of a matchbox, which is where they got their name. They were first introduced in the 1950s, and early models are now valuable collector’s items.
What to Look For:
- 1953 Lesney Matchbox Road Roller – One of the earliest models made.
- 1962 Ferrari Berlinetta – A highly collectible car from the 1960s.
Pros:
- Easy to find.
- Can be affordable for beginners.
Cons:
- Older models in good condition are rare.
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2. Hot Wheels Redlines (1968-1977)
Hot Wheels are known for their bold colors and fast designs. The “Redlines,” named for the red stripe on their wheels, are especially sought after. These cars were made between 1968 and 1977 and are now collector favorites.
What to Look For:
- 1968 Custom Camaro – One of the original 16 Hot Wheels cars.
- 1970 Purple Oldsmobile 442 – A rare car worth finding.
Pros:
- Wide variety of designs.
- Redline models are highly collectible.
Cons:
- Hard to find in perfect condition.
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3. Dinky Toys (1930s-1970s)
Dinky Toys were made by a British company and are some of the oldest collectible toy cars. They were built to last and are very detailed, which is why they remain popular among collectors.
What to Look For:
- Dinky No. 24 Series – Early models from the 1940s.
- 1957 Aston Martin DB3S – A famous model for collectors.
Pros:
- Known for high-quality construction.
- Classic designs.
Cons:
- Can be expensive if in good condition.
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4. Corgi Toys (1950s-1970s)
Corgi Toys are another British brand that became famous for their realistic details. They made a lot of cars based on real-life vehicles and even movie cars like James Bond’s Aston Martin.
What to Look For:
- 1965 James Bond Aston Martin DB5 – One of the most famous Corgi models.
- 1966 Batmobile – A must-have for any collector.
Pros:
- Known for cool features like opening doors.
- Many movie-themed cars.
Cons:
- Rare models can be pricey.
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5. Tootsietoy Cars (1930s-1960s)
Tootsietoy is one of the oldest toy car makers in the U.S. They are known for their simple, yet charming designs. Cars made in the 1930s and 1940s are especially valuable to collectors today.
What to Look For:
- 1936 Grahams Roadster – A highly collectible model.
- 1950s Tootsietoy Play Sets – These sets often included toy cars and accessories.
Pros:
- Easy to find at toy shows.
- Affordable for new collectors.
Cons:
- Simpler designs compared to newer brands.
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Tips for New Collectors
- Check the condition: The value of a toy car depends a lot on its condition. Cars without scratches or rust are worth more, especially if they still have their original box.
- Know what’s rare: Some cars were made in large numbers, while others are limited edition. Do some research to figure out which ones are rare.
- Store them properly: Keep your cars in a cool, dry place to prevent rust or damage. Display cases can also help keep them safe.
Conclusion
Collecting vintage toy cars is a great hobby that brings together history, art, and fun. Whether you’re looking for Matchbox cars, Hot Wheels Redlines, or Tootsietoys, there’s something for everyone. These little cars may seem simple, but they carry a lot of value and memories. Happy collecting!
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