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Hess toys have been a popular collectible among children and adults alike since the Hess Corporation first introduced its annual holiday toy truck in 1964. Over the years, the value of these toys has grown considerably. In this article, we will explore why Hess toys are so valuable and what factors contribute to their high price tags.
The History of Hess Toys
The Hess Corporation was founded by Leon Hess in 1933 as a small oil delivery business. In 1964, the company decided to create a holiday toy truck as a way to thank its customers for their loyalty throughout the year. The first Hess toy truck was a replica of a fuel oil delivery truck and was sold for $1.29 at Hess gas stations across the Northeast.
Since then, the Hess Corporation has released a new toy truck every year, with the exception of 1966 and 2015. Over the years, the designs have become more elaborate and the toys have included additional features such as sound effects, working lights, and even helicopters.
What Makes Hess Toys Valuable?
There are several factors that contribute to the value of Hess toys. First and foremost is their limited availability. Hess toys are only sold at Hess gas stations, which are primarily located in the Northeastern United States. This means that collectors outside of this region may have a more difficult time acquiring these toys.
Another factor that contributes to Hess toys’ value is their high level of detail and quality. Each toy is carefully designed and constructed using high-quality materials. Many of the toys also include special features such as sound effects and working lights, which make them even more desirable to collectors.
Finally, the fact that Hess toys are released on an annual basis adds to their collectibility. Collectors are always looking for the newest addition to their collection, and the limited availability of each year’s toy only adds to their appeal.
The Most Valuable Hess Toys
Some Hess toys are more valuable than others. The most valuable toys are typically those that are rare or have unique features. Here are a few examples:
- The 1964 Hess Toy Truck is the original and most valuable toy in the collection. It is also the rarest, as only a limited number were produced.
- The 1982/1983 Hess Training Van is highly sought after due to its unique design and limited availability.
- The 1998 Hess Recreation Van is another highly coveted toy due to its unique design and limited availability.
How to Determine the Value of Hess Toys
There are several factors to consider when determining the value of a Hess toy. These include:
- The year the toy was released
- The condition of the toy
- Whether the toy is in its original packaging
- Whether any accessories or instructions are included
Collectors should also keep in mind that the value of Hess toys can fluctuate over time. Factors such as market demand and the condition of the toy can impact its value.
Where to Buy and Sell Hess Toys
There are several options for buying and selling Hess toys. Some collectors prefer to buy directly from Hess gas stations, while others prefer to purchase from online retailers or toy dealers.
There are also several online marketplaces dedicated specifically to Hess toys, such as the Hess Toy Truck Collector’s Club and Hess Toy Truck Buy Sell Trade Facebook Group.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hess toys are valuable collectibles that are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Their limited availability, high level of detail and quality, and annual release schedule all contribute to their appeal. Collectors should consider factors such as the year the toy was released, its condition, and whether it is in its original packaging when determining its value. With careful research and attention to detail, collectors can build a valuable collection of Hess toys that will be cherished for years to come.