How to Find Rare Toys

Here are some tips on how to find rare toys. Rare toys can be many different things from antique porcelain dolls to early video games, but the one thing that they have in common is that they have the potential to be quite valuable. With a little luck and some determination, a careful shopper can find rare toys in their area to collect or to sell for a profit.

How to Find Rare Toys - Thrift Stores

Thrift stores receive a lot of unwanted stuff from homes, garages, basements, and attics. Mixed into that stuff may well be some valuable and rare toys. Those looking for bargains at thrift stores might have to dig through large boxes and piles of toys, but that great toy you have been after might well be waiting there.

How to Find Rare Toys - Yard Sales

Yard sales are hit and miss when looking for older toys but if you find some the prices should be good. Yard sales that advertise old toys might draw a lot of competition from other collectors or treasure hunters. Look for sales in older neighborhoods, moving sales and multiple family sales.

How to Find Rare Toys - Rummage Sales

Rummage sales might be the most productive location for finding rare toys at a great price. The sheer number of people cleaning out their unwanted items to sell increases the chances of a gem ending up at the sale. Rummage sales often end up quite cluttered so expect to do some digging.

How to Find Rare Toys - Estate Sales

Estate sales, or tag sales, are generally better for getting deals than estate auctions where knowledgeable buyers can drive prices up. Estate sales are a great place to pick up older toys at a bargain price and have the potential to hold very valuable items, get to these early.

How to Find Rare Toys - Trash

While digging through the neighbor's trash might not be a lot of fun, many rare and valuable toys end up sitting on the curb on their way to the landfill. Look for large piles of trash that indicate that someone has moved or cleaned out the basement and take a look! Keep an eye out when driving around on trash day for large items such as vintage bicycles, wagons, and doll houses.