Made By: Mattel, Inc.
Avg. Cost: $1*
Est. Value Today: $12*

Debuting in 1968, Hot Wheels cars became an instant hit with their realistic, die-cast designs. Loved by kids in the 60s and 70s, they could be played with alone or on Hot Wheels tracks.

Today, Hot Wheels are still beloved by children and collectors. The brand has grown with a variety of vehicles and accessories, offering high-quality, detailed play options.

Made By: Mattel Inc.
Avg. Cost: $100*
Est. Value Today: N/A

The Barbie Dream House, a beloved girls’ toy since the 1960s, is a three-story modern playhouse designed as a dream home for Barbie dolls. It featured multiple rooms and furniture, encouraging imaginative play.

Though it has evolved with time, the Barbie Dream House remains a cherished toy for girls, sparking creativity and fond childhood memories.

Made By: Mattel
Avg. Cost: $25-$50*
Est. Value Today: $300-$1,5

Chatty Cathy, a line of talking dolls launched in the 1960s, was known for its capability to speak different phrases when a button on its stomach was pressed.

Chatty Cathy dolls were a hit with kids in the 60s and 70s, experiencing a revival in the 90s. Though they may not be as widely adored today, they remain an iconic and cherished toy for many.

Made By: Binney & Smith, Inc.
Avg. Cost: $1
Est. Value Today: $25+

Introduced in 1950 as a children’s toy, Silly Putty gained immense popularity in the 1960s. This squishy, moldable material was not only fun to play with but could also pick up images from comic strips and newspapers.

Today, Silly Putty remains a favored toy for children, although it faces competition from similar products. Its distinctive qualities and nostalgia factor keep it a sought-after choice for both kids and adults.

Made By: The Fizzies Company
Avg. Cost: $0.25-$0.50*
Est. Value Today: $70-$100*

Fizzies, a well-liked drink mix in the 1960s, were meant to be mixed with water to produce a carbonated, flavored beverage. They came in various flavors like cherry, lemon-lime, and root beer.

Market as a healthy soda alternative and a way to keep kids hydrated, Fizzies have retained their iconic status, even though they’re not as widely consumed as in the past.

Made By: Jell-O
Avg. Cost: $0.50-$1.00*
Est. Value Today: $50*

In the 1960s, celery-flavored Jell-O, although an unusual choice, was surprisingly popular as a way to incorporate vegetables into desserts. Today, it’s a rare and unique part of Jell-O’s history, even though it didn’t achieve the same popularity as other flavors.

Made By: Kenner Products
Avg. Cost: $10-$15*
Est. Value Today: $100-$200* (vintage, unopened)

Stretch Armstrong was a popular toy known for its remarkable stretchability and ability to bounce back to its original shape. Despite a short-lived initial run, it has made a comeback and continues to attract collectors and nostalgia-seekers. Newer versions offer updated features while retaining the classic appeal.

Made By: Fisher Price
Avg. Cost: $2-$5*
Est. Value Today: $10-$50* (vintage sets)

Fisher Price Little People, a popular toy line in the 1950s-1960s, featured plastic figures and playsets designed for imaginative play in young children. Their simple design encouraged fine motor skills. These toys have remained popular for years, appealing to collectors and kids alike. While they’ve seen updates, the core design remains, ensuring continued popularity with young children.

Made By: Tecnica
Avg. Cost: $15*
Est. Value Today: $145*

Moon Boots, an iconic fashion staple from the 1960s, are celebrated for their unique and modern style. Created by the Italian brand Tecnica, these boots gained global popularity due to their durability and space-inspired design.

The original Moon Boot designs included an inflatable ankle-high nylon upper, a lightweight EVA foam sole, and a non-slip rubber sole for comfort and durability.

Made By: Rolodex Corporation
Avg. Cost: $20-$50*
Est. Value Today: $50-$100*

The Rolodex, a popular contact organizer in the 1960s, held cards with names, addresses, and phone numbers. It was widely used by businesses and professionals for contact management.

As personal computers and electronic organizers emerged in the 1980s and 1990s, the Rolodex’s popularity waned. Today, digital contact storage on computers, smartphones, and in the cloud is the norm. While the Rolodex may seem outdated in comparison, it was a revolutionary tool in its time, helping people stay organized and connected. Despite newer technologies, it holds a place in nostalgia as a memorable office accessory.

Made By: Various manufacturers
Avg. Cost: $10-$20*
Est. Value Today: $10-$30*

In the 1960s, Army Men play sets were a favored toy among boys. These sets included plastic soldiers, weapons, and vehicles, allowing kids to stage battles and military scenarios, fueling their adventurous and imaginative play.

While not as prominent today, Army Men play sets are still readily available in most toy stores, offering a nostalgic and creative play option for young boys.

Made By: Mattel
Avg. Cost: $10*
Est. Value Today: N/A

Ken Doll, introduced by Mattel in 1961 as Barbie’s boyfriend, is a well-recognized male fashion doll and cultural icon. He has adapted to changing fashion and cultural trends, featuring various ethnicities, professions, and outfits.

While his popularity has waned due to more diverse toy options, Ken Doll remains an iconic and beloved part of toy history, remembered by collectors and still cherished by young girls.

Made By: Various manufacturers
Avg. Cost: $15*
Est. Value Today: N/A

Suzy Homemaker, a popular toy line in the 1960s and 1970s, targeted young girls with miniature kitchen appliances, play food, and utensils. It aimed to inspire traditional domestic role play.

While once favored, the toy line has faced criticism for perpetuating gender stereotypes and limiting girls’ imaginations. Today, toy companies are striving to develop inclusive and empowering toys for all children, regardless of gender.

Made By: Hasbro
Avg. Cost: $15*
Est. Value Today: N/A

Lite-Brite, introduced by Hasbro in 1967, is a classic toy featuring a light box, pegs, and translucent plastic sheets. By inserting pegs into the sheets, children create colorful, glowing pictures when the light illuminates them.

Popular in the 1960s and 1970s, Lite-Brite endures as a beloved classic toy. Despite various updates, it continues to offer a simple and creative outlet for children to express their imagination.

Made By: Milton Bradley
Avg. Cost: $15
Est. Value Today: N/A

Twister, introduced by Milton Bradley in 1966, is a classic party game played on a large plastic mat with colored circles. Players take turns spinning a wheel to determine which hand or foot to place on a specific color, aiming not to fall over or touch the mat with any other body part. The game’s blend of physical activity and strategy has made it a fun and entertaining choice for all ages.

Made By: Ohio Art
Avg. Cost: $5-$10*
Est. Value Today: $1,500*

Etch-a-Sketch, introduced in the 1960s, is a mechanical drawing toy known for its simple design featuring two knobs for creating drawings.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Etch-a-Sketch was a popular choice among children, and it continues to be an iconic and cherished toy for many. While it may not enjoy the same level of popularity as in the past, it remains a dependable and timeless toy.

Made By: Royal Albert, Dalton, and more
Avg. Cost: Various
Est. Value Today: $100+ for a decent set*

China sets were once popular in the 1950s and 60s but fell out of favor in the following decades, considered dated by younger generations and no longer household essentials. However, as trends often cycle back, vintage fashion and homeware have seen a resurgence.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in vintage china sets. Collectors are now willing to pay over $100 for a quality set, with value determined by the maker and the era it originates from.

Made By: United States Mint
Avg. Cost: Half a dollar
Est. Value Today: $1295 for uncirculated coin*

The coin market is substantial, with avid collectors always seeking rare pieces, and it’s no surprise that some can command a high price. The Kennedy Half Dollar, introduced as a tribute to President JFK after his passing, has seen various versions over the years.

An uncirculated Kennedy Half Dollar can be quite valuable, costing around $1295. The coin’s side profile of Kennedy makes it especially prized by patriots and historians.

Made By: Sony, Philips, RCA
Avg. Cost: $100-300*
Est. Value Today: $500-1,000*

In the 1960s, music enthusiasts needed to physically buy records and use a record player to enjoy their favorite songs. Record players were the primary home music systems, available in various sizes and styles.

These players had a spinning turntable and a needle that navigated the record’s grooves to produce music. Sound quality depended on the needle’s quality and the record’s condition. Record players lost popularity in the 1970s with the emergence of cassette tapes and, later, CDs. Today, they are mainly used by collectors or as decorative items.

Made By: Various
Avg. Cost: $1-5 per person*
Est. Value Today: N/A

In the 1960s, drive-in movie theaters were popular for their unique concept, letting audiences watch films from their cars. They provided a relaxed viewing experience with large screens and in-car speakers connected to the movie’s audio.

As indoor multiplexes with advanced features like stadium seating and digital projection gained prominence, drive-ins declined in popularity. Today, drive-in theaters are scarce, with indoor cinemas taking their place.

Made By: IBM, Smith Corona, Underwood
Avg. Cost: $100-300*
Est. Value Today: $800-$1,000*

In the 1960s, typewriters were a common tool for writing, both for professionals and students. These mechanical devices allowed users to type documents by striking a ribbon with keys, leaving ink marks on paper. While reliable, typewriters had limitations.

They were slower compared to modern computers, and making corrections on typed pages was challenging. As computers became more accessible in the 1980s, typewriters lost popularity and were eventually phased out. Today, they are primarily decorative items or collector’s pieces.

Made By: Sony, Philips, Maxell, TDK
Avg. Cost: $5-$10 per tape*
Est. Value Today: $5-$20 per tape*

Cassette tapes were a popular way to enjoy music in the 1960s and 1970s. These compact tapes, roughly the size of a deck of cards, could store up to an hour of music and were compatible with cassette players commonly found in cars and homes. They enabled music lovers to enjoy their favorite tunes on the go, representing a significant advancement in music technology.

However, with the increasing popularity of CDs and later digital music formats in the 1980s and 1990s, cassette tapes started to lose relevance. Today, they are mainly of interest to collectors and nostalgia enthusiasts.

Made By: Blockbuster LLC
Avg. Cost: $2-$5 per rental*
Est. Value Today: Closed down

Blockbuster video stores were a go-to spot for movie lovers in the 1990s and early 2000s, providing a broad range of movies and video games for rent. Families and friends often visited for a cozy night in. However, with the rise of streaming and online rental services like Netflix and Redbox in the late 2000s and 2010s, Blockbuster video stores gradually lost their appeal. Today, they are primarily remembered as a nostalgic relic of the past.

Made By: RadioShack Corporation
Avg. Cost: $20-$100*
Est. Value Today: Closed down

RadioShack, a prominent 1960s electronics retailer with a vast product range, had thousands of stores across the US, known for knowledgeable staff.

As technology advanced and electronics became more widely available, RadioShack struggled. It filed for bankruptcy in 2015 and liquidated its stores in 2017. Today, a few franchise stores bear the RadioShack name, but the company is a mere remnant of its past glory.

Made By: Various manufacturers
Avg. Cost: $0.25 per call*
Est. Value Today: $5-$10 per call*

In the 1960s, payphones were a common sight on street corners, in airports, and public places. Operated by the Bell System, these coin-operated phones allowed people to make calls without owning a phone, accepting nickels, dimes, and quarters.

With the increasing prevalence of mobile phones, the need for payphones dwindled. Today, payphones are rare, many out of service or in disrepair. The number of payphones in the United States has dropped from 2.6 million in 2000 to less than 100,000 today.

Made By: Sony, JVC, RCA
Avg. Cost: $300-$800*
Est. Value Today: $50-$100*

VCRs, or Video Cassette Recorders, were a hit in the 1960s, enabling the recording and playback of TV shows and movies on VHS tapes. They revolutionized home entertainment, offering flexibility in viewing.

However, with the rise of digital streaming in the 21st century, VCRs became outdated. Today, they are primarily used for nostalgia or to play old tapes.

Made By: Polaroid
Avg. Cost: $50-$100*
Est. Value Today: $200-$300*

Polaroid cameras were popular for instant photography in the 1960s, providing physical prints within minutes. They were a hit at events and parties for creating instant mementos.

However, digital photography’s rise has reduced the use of Polaroid cameras. Today, people opt for smartphones and digital cameras for capturing and sharing photos online. While you can still find Polaroid cameras in antique stores or online, they aren’t as widely used as in the 1960s.

Made By: Various brands
Avg. Cost: $20-$50*
Est. Value Today: $20-$50*

Bell-bottoms, with their flared bottom style, were a symbol of the 1960s and 70s counterculture and the hippie movement. They’ve had some revival attempts in recent years but haven’t reached their former popularity. Nonetheless, they evoke nostalgia for those who recall wearing or seeing them.

Made By: Various brands
Avg. Cost: $20-$50*
Est. Value Today: $20-$50*

Tie-dye, with its colorful, swirling patterns on clothing, was a hallmark of 1960s and 70s fashion, embraced by the counterculture and the hippie movement for its self-expression and creativity.

Despite several revival attempts, tie-dye hasn’t reclaimed its former popularity. Yet, it remains a nostalgic choice for those who remember wearing or seeing it.

Made By: Mathmos
Avg. Cost: $50-$100*
Est. Value Today: $100-$200*

Lava lamps, with their mesmerizing swirling patterns, were a popular decor item in the 1960s and 70s. They provided ambient lighting and added a touch of whimsy to rooms. While not as prevalent today, they evoke nostalgia for those who remember them.

Made By: Various brands
Avg. Cost: $20-$50*
Est. Value Today: $20-$50*

In the 1960s, miniskirts, known for their short length and youthful style, symbolized women’s independence and the counterculture. They have remained a fashion staple with some updates, evoking nostalgia for those who remember their popularity.

Made By: Various brands
Avg. Cost: $50-$100*
Est. Value Today: $400-$500*

In the 1960s, go-go boots, with their knee-high length and pointed toe, added a touch of glamour and sexiness to women’s outfits, notably within the go-go dance scene.

While they’ve attempted a comeback in recent years, go-go boots haven’t recaptured their 1960s popularity. Nevertheless, they hold a certain nostalgic appeal for those who remember them.

Made By: Mattel
Avg. Cost: $5-$10*
Est. Value Today: $50-$1,000* (for vintage models)

Barbie dolls, popular in the 1960s, have remained iconic and beloved toys. These adult-woman representation dolls have come in various styles and professions. While they’ve faced criticism for unrealistic beauty standards and gender stereotypes, they’ve also served as role models for young girls. Although their popularity has waned, Barbie dolls hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up with them.

Made By: Hasbro
Avg. Cost: $5-$10*
Est. Value Today: $100-$250* (for vintage models)

GI Joe dolls, a hit in the 1960s, remain iconic and beloved toys. These adult male soldier representations span various styles and professions, from infantrymen to doctors and astronauts.

While they’ve faced criticism for promoting militaristic and aggressive themes, they’ve also served as role models for young boys. Although not as dominant as in the past, GI Joe dolls hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up playing with them.

Made By: Sunbeam
Avg. Cost: $40-$80*
Est. Value Today: $100-$200*

Sunbeam Mixmaster, introduced in the 1960s, are electric stand mixers known for their robust motors and versatile attachments, suitable for mixing, beating, and whipping.

These mixers were favored by home cooks and bakers in the 60s and 70s and have retained their place in kitchens globally. While not as prevalent as before, Sunbeam Mixmasters remain a dependable and essential tool for many.

Made By: Dam Things
Avg. Cost: $1-$5*
Est. Value Today: $700-$1,000*

Troll Dolls, introduced in the 1960s, are small plastic dolls known for their distinctive features, including chubby bodies, wild hair, and cheerful expressions.

Troll Dolls were a favored toy among children in the 60s and 70s and experienced a revival in the 90s. While not as widespread as before, they remain beloved and iconic for many.

Made By: Kodak
Avg. Cost: $300-$500*
Est. Value Today: $50-$100*

The Kodak Carousel Slide Projector, popular in the 1960s, was used by families and businesses to display slideshows. With a round tray for slides, it advanced to the next slide upon a button press, projecting images onto a screen or wall.

In today’s digital age, slide projectors have become obsolete, mainly found in antique stores or online. Many have digitized their slides for easier storage and sharing of memories.

Made By: IBM, Apple, and other computer manufacturers
Avg. Cost: $100-$300*
Est. Value Today: $1,000-$50,300*

Floppy disk drives, popular in the 1960s, were used for data storage on computers. They employed thin, flexible disks coated with magnetic material. Despite offering better capacity and durability compared to previous methods, they have become obsolete due to technological advancements, making way for USB drives and cloud storage. Today, they hold nostalgic value and are sought after by collectors.

Made By: PEZ Candy, Inc.
Avg. Cost: $0.25*
Est. Value Today: $50-$100*

PEZ, the iconic candy dispenser since the 1950s, has featured a range of flavors. While fruit flavors remain popular, PEZ has experimented with unusual ones like coffee and chocolate. In the 1960s, they introduced flower-flavored PEZ, targeting adults with flavors like rose, violet, and daisy. This floral twist seems to have vanished and is no longer found in stores.

Made By: Western Union, ITT
Avg. Cost: $5,000-$10,000*
Est. Value Today: $100-$500*

In the 1960s, telex machines were widely used for business communication. They allowed the transmission of typed messages via a network of machines using coded signals. However, the rise of fax machines and email in the 1970s rendered telex machines obsolete. Today, they are rarely seen, primarily found in museums or private collections.

Made By: Hasbro
Avg. Cost: $15*
Est. Value Today: $30*

Mr. Potato Head, a hit since the 1950s, allowed kids to attach plastic body parts to a plastic potato, sparking creativity and imagination in the 60s and 70s. It remains beloved today, with updated versions and digital adaptations for modern devices. While the classic toy isn’t as popular as in the past, it still holds a special place in the hearts of those who played with it as children.

Made By: Gillette, 3M
Avg. Cost: $0.10 – $0.25 per sheet*
Est. Value Today: $1 – $5 per sheet*

In the 1960s, carbon paper was a common office supply that allowed multiple copies to be made with a single pass through a typewriter. It was widely used for copying important documents. However, with the advancement of copying technology like photocopiers and printers, carbon paper became obsolete. Today, it is rare and mainly sought after by collectors or as a nostalgic item.

Made By: Mattel
Avg. Cost: $15*
Est. Value Today: $40*

Uno, a classic card game with decades of history, challenges players to be the first to discard all their cards. Its easy-to-learn rules and suitability for all ages have made it a go-to choice for family game nights. Uno’s enduring popularity stems from its simplicity and fast-paced gameplay, ensuring fun for families and friends alike.

Made By: Milton Bradley
Avg. Cost: $15*
Est. Value Today: N/A

KerPlunk, a classic tabletop game from the 1960s, features a plastic tube with suspended marbles. Players remove sticks from the bottom, trying to avoid dropping marbles. The player causing the fewest marbles to fall emerges as the winner. KerPlunk’s enduring appeal lies in its straightforward rules and thrilling gameplay, making it a popular choice for gatherings of family and friends.

Made By: Parker Brothers
Avg. Cost: $5*
Est. Value Today: $25*

Nerf balls were introduced in 1969 as a safe and soft indoor play alternative to traditional sports balls. Made of foam, they reduced the risk of injury from accidental contact. Quickly embraced by children, they were used in various games. Today, Nerf balls remain a popular choice for kids and have expanded to include Nerf guns and other toys, known for their safe design and engaging play options.

Made By: Louis Marx & Co., later by Fisher Price
Avg. Cost: $20-$30*
Est. Value Today: $50-$200* (vintage, collectible models)

Big Wheels, beloved ride-on toys for young children learning to pedal, featured a durable plastic design with a large front wheel and a smaller back wheel. These simple and robust toys remain popular with nostalgia enthusiasts and collectors. Despite design updates over the years, the core concept endures, making them a favorite for outdoor play among young children.

Made By: N/A
Avg. Cost: Varies by location and quantity
Est. Value Today: Varies by production company

Milk delivery, a common practice in the 60s, involved milkmen delivering fresh dairy products to households and businesses. It offered convenience and supported local dairies. However, as supermarkets grew and provided more choices, milk delivery lost its popularity. Nowadays, it’s mostly available through small, specialty dairies.

Made By: Various
Avg. Cost: $1-$5 per rental*
Est. Value Today: N/A

In the 60s, VHS rental stores were a go-to destination for movie lovers. These independently owned shops provided VHS tapes of the latest movies and TV shows for rent, making them a favorite choice for movie nights. However, with the rise of streaming and digital downloads in the 2000s and 2010s, VHS rental stores dwindled, and today, they are a rarity with VHS tapes losing their value.

Made By: Western Electric, Stromberg-Carlson
Avg. Cost: $15-25*
Est. Value Today: $500-$1,500*

Candlestick phones, known for their distinctive candlestick-shaped design, were popular in the early 1900s and remained in use through the 1960s. With the transmitter and receiver on top and a handle on the base, they were seen as stylish and elegant in their time. However, as newer phone models emerged with technological advances, Candlestick phones fell out of favor and are now regarded as vintage items found in museums and private collections.

Made By: Various
Avg. Cost: $3000-$5000*
Est. Value Today: $3000-$5000*

Fuzzy logic calculators, introduced in the 60s, handle calculations with uncertain data through probability approximations. Initially used in control systems for industry, they remain relevant in control systems and artificial intelligence, with improved accessibility due to technological advancements.