For over 50 years, Hess Corporation has been producing highly collectible trucks that have become a Christmas tradition for many families. These trucks are not only fun to play with, but they are highly sought after by collectors all over the world. If you’re interested in starting a collection or adding to your existing one, then this Hess truck price guide is for you.
What are Hess Trucks?
Hess trucks are toy trucks produced by the American energy company, Hess Corporation. The first Hess toy truck was released in 1964 and was sold at Hess gas stations as a way to promote the company during the holiday season. Since then, Hess has released a new truck every year, with each one becoming more elaborate and detailed than the last.
Why are Hess Trucks Collectible?
There are several reasons why Hess trucks are highly collectible:
- Limited production: each year’s truck is only produced for a limited time, making them rare and hard to find.
- Quality craftsmanship: the trucks are well-made and highly detailed, with functioning lights and other features.
- Nostalgia: many people grew up with these trucks as part of their holiday traditions, making them sentimental and valuable.
How to Determine the Value of a Hess Truck
The value of a Hess truck varies depending on several factors:
- Year of production: older trucks are generally more valuable than newer ones.
- Condition: trucks in mint condition with their original packaging are worth more than those that have been played with or damaged.
- Rarity: some trucks were produced in limited quantities or were only sold in certain regions, making them more valuable.
To determine the value of a Hess truck, you can consult a price guide or check online auction sites to see what similar trucks have sold for. Keep in mind that the value of a truck can fluctuate over time, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the market.
Common Hess Truck Collectors’ Items
Some of the most popular Hess truck collectors’ items include:
- First edition trucks: the original 1964 truck, as well as the first truck in each subsequent series (such as the first tanker truck or helicopter truck).
- Miniature trucks: smaller versions of the full-sized trucks that were produced in limited quantities.
- Special edition trucks: trucks produced to commemorate a special event or anniversary, such as the Hess truck’s 50th anniversary edition.
Where to Buy Hess Trucks
There are several places to buy Hess trucks:
- Hess gas stations: while the trucks are no longer sold at Hess gas stations, you can often find older trucks for sale at these locations.
- Online auction sites: sites like eBay and Amazon often have a wide selection of Hess trucks for sale.
- Collector’s marketplaces: there are several online marketplaces that specialize in collectible items, including Hess trucks.
Tips for Starting a Hess Truck Collection
If you’re interested in starting a Hess truck collection, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Do your research: learn as much as you can about the different trucks and their values before making any purchases.
- Start small: don’t feel like you need to buy every truck at once. Start with a few that you really like and build your collection over time.
- Keep your trucks in good condition: store them in a cool, dry place and avoid playing with them too much to keep them in pristine condition.
- Display your collection: show off your collection by creating a display case or setting up a shelf to showcase your trucks.
Conclusion
Hess trucks are more than just toys – they are highly sought after collectibles that hold a special place in the hearts of many families. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, this Hess truck price guide should help you navigate the world of Hess trucks and make informed purchasing decisions.