Trash or Treasure? Ordinary Objects from Yesterday Worth a Fortune Today

6. G.I. Joe Dolls - Estimated Value $100-$250

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The toy business underwent a major cultural change in the 1960s, separating "girl" from "boy" products rather clearly. While males were urged to play with G.I. Joe dolls, which were meant to reflect different military positions and inspire young guys to revere strength and physical skill, girls had the recognisable Barbie doll. Though this marketing approach drew criticism for supporting gender stereotypes, G.I. Joe dolls became rather popular among young people very fast. These dolls today are considered as vintage relics that appeal to both nostalgia and the need for unusual mementoes. Should you find any G.I. Joe dolls hidden in your attic, you could be pleasantly surprised to see some of these vintage dolls fetch prices near $250. For collectors, the value of some models—especially those in original packaging or in great condition—is much enhanced by their scarcity. So stop a moment to review your storage; you might discover a buried treasure!