Determining the Value of 1960s Star Trek Action Figures (2025 Guide)
Vintage Star Trek action figures from the late 1960s are among the most iconic pieces of sci-fi memorabilia ever produced. As collectibles tied to the original series—arguably the most influential science-fiction franchise of all time—these early figures hold a special place in toy history. Whether you’ve uncovered a figure in an attic, inherited a boxed collection, or are researching before buying or selling, knowing how to determine its true value is essential.
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Why 1960s Star Trek Figures Are So Valuable
Original 1960s Star Trek toys represent the very beginning of franchise licensing. Their rarity, cultural importance, and limited production runs make them highly desirable among vintage toy collectors.
Key reasons for high values:
• First-generation Star Trek merchandise
• Low production and survival rates
• Strong cross-fandom demand (toys, sci-fi, TV history)
• Increasing scarcity of complete and boxed examples
• Continued global popularity of the franchise
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Identify Which Figures You Have
The earliest Star Trek toys weren’t mass-produced like later lines. Correctly identifying which version or manufacturer you have is crucial, since values can vary dramatically.
Most recognizable legitimate 1960s releases include:
• Remco Star Trek Figures (1967) — Early 6-inch figures and space accessories
• Remco Astrotank & Utility Belt Sets — Often paired with Star Trek branding
• Other early sci-fi crossover toys — Sometimes mistaken for Trek merchandise
How to identify your figure:
• Check base markings (manufacturer, year, country of origin)
• Examine accessories—many 1960s items are missing pieces
• Compare face sculpts and uniforms to trusted toy reference guides
• Look for packaging clues (logos, fonts, catalog codes)
Accurate identification can be the difference between a $10 novelty and a four-figure rare collectible.
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Evaluate the Figure’s Condition
Condition is the most important factor in determining value. Even common 1960s figures can become high-value items if they are complete, clean, and undamaged.
Standard collectible toy grading considerations:
Key condition factors:
• Paint wear — especially on faces and insignias
• Plastic integrity — cracks, discoloration, warping
• Joints and limbs — tightness, breakage, re-glued parts
• Accessories — communicators, phasers, belts, helmets
• Packaging — blister condition, card art, tears, creases
With vintage Trek toys, even minor flaws can significantly impact price.
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Grading Greatly Increases Value
Professional toy grading services (such as AFA or CAS) can dramatically boost the desirability and sale price of vintage Star Trek action figures.
Benefits of grading:
• Confirms authenticity
• Documents completeness and any restoration
• Establishes a trusted numerical grade
• Protects the figure in tamper-proof casing
• Increases buyer confidence for high-value sales
Grading is especially beneficial for boxed or unopened figures.
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Research Recent Sale Prices
To determine current market value, you should always rely on sold listings, not asking prices.
Best places to check recent sales:
• Major toy auction houses
• Online price databases for vintage toys
• eBay sold/completed listings
• Specialty sci-fi memorabilia auctions
Search for:
• The specific figure and manufacturer
• Boxed vs. loose examples
• Complete vs. incomplete accessory sets
• Comparable grades or conditions
With rare 1960s toys, small condition differences can cause large price swings.
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Understand Market Trends That Affect Value
Values for early Star Trek collectibles can fluctuate with:
• Major franchise anniversaries or new series/films
• Renewed collector interest in vintage sci-fi toys
• High-profile auction results
• Availability of mint or graded specimens entering the market
• Generational shifts in nostalgia-driven collecting
Overall, early Star Trek toys remain a strong and stable segment of the vintage sci-fi market.
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Beware of Reproductions and Mislabeled Items
Because of their rarity, 1960s Star Trek figures are often confused with later reproductions or mislabeled as earlier releases.
Signs your figure may be a reproduction or misidentified:
• Modern plastic sheen or bright, unaged paint
• Incorrect or missing manufacturer markings
• Accessories that match later Mego or Playmates lines
• Packaging with fonts/logos inconsistent with 1960s branding
• Figures that seem “too clean” for their age
If you’re unsure, professional authentication is the best safeguard.
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Consider Getting a Professional Appraisal
A professional evaluation can help you:
• Verify authenticity and production year
• Identify missing or replaced pieces
• Determine realistic market value
• Get advice on grading or selling
• Secure proper insurance coverage
This is especially recommended for rare boxed Remco figures.
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Final Thoughts: What Your 1960s Star Trek Figures May Be Worth
The value of vintage Star Trek action figures depends on:
• Exact figure and manufacturer
• Condition and completeness
• Packaging status
• Restoration or repairs
• Professional grading
• Current sci-fi collectible demand
With careful identification and evaluation, you can confidently determine how much your 1960s Star Trek figures may be worth—whether you plan to display, preserve, insure, or sell them.
For expert review or valuation assistance, call us at 1-800-555-6741 or email support@memorabiliabrokers.com.
