The Best Farm Toy to Invest In: A Guide to Timeless Collectibles and Growing Value
When most people think of farm toys, they imagine the plastic tractors and animals that fill children’s playrooms. But over the years, farm toys have evolved into a thriving market for collectors, with certain pieces becoming sought-after investment opportunities. If you’re passionate about farming memorabilia or just looking to invest in a timeless toy that might increase in value over time, knowing which farm toys to invest in is key.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best farm toys to invest in, highlighting models that have shown a proven track record of appreciating in value, the factors that make them desirable, and how to get started with collecting.
Why Invest in Farm Toys?
Investing in farm toys isn’t just about having something nostalgic or fun to collect—it’s also a smart move in the world of toy collecting. Many farm toys, especially die-cast models and limited-edition releases, can become highly valuable over time. The key to making a profitable investment is understanding the factors that affect a toy’s value, such as:
- Brand recognition: Popular brands like ERTL, SpecCast, and Bruder are trusted names in farm toy production, and their products are in demand.
- Limited edition releases: Toys produced in limited runs, especially those with special features or packaging, tend to appreciate in value.
- Condition: Like any collectible, the value of farm toys depends largely on their condition. Unopened, mint-condition items fetch the highest prices.
- Age and rarity: Older models, particularly those that are rare or discontinued, tend to become highly desirable over time.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best farm toys that have the potential to be both enjoyable and profitable investments.
1. ERTL Die-Cast John Deere Tractors
ERTL is perhaps the most well-known brand in the farm toy industry, and their John Deere tractors are among the most iconic and collectible pieces. These die-cast models are popular for their attention to detail, durability, and authenticity, as they replicate real-life John Deere machinery.
Some limited edition releases, particularly those with unique color schemes, special decals, or anniversaries, can see substantial increases in value. For example, the ERTL 1:16 Scale John Deere 7800 Tractor (a limited edition model) has become highly sought after among collectors.
Why It’s a Good Investment: ERTL’s long-standing partnership with John Deere, along with the brand’s reputation for producing high-quality, authentic models, makes these tractors a strong investment option. Limited editions, such as anniversary models or tractors made in small quantities, often appreciate in value due to their rarity.
Tip: Look for models with special edition boxes or certificates of authenticity, as these often drive up resale value.
2. SpecCast Farm Toy Tractors and Equipment
SpecCast is another big name in the farm toy market. Known for their highly detailed die-cast models, SpecCast has established itself as a leader in producing farm equipment replicas from brands like Case IH, Massey Ferguson, and International Harvester.
Similar to ERTL, SpecCast’s limited edition models are excellent investment pieces. Some models—especially those produced in small batches or as part of special releases—can see huge gains in value over time. Collectors highly prize vintage SpecCast tractors and combines, especially those made in the 1980s and 1990s.
Why It’s a Good Investment: SpecCast is highly regarded for its craftsmanship and for producing models that are historically accurate. Older, rare, and limited-edition SpecCast pieces have appreciated significantly in price over time, especially among devoted collectors.
Tip: Limited-run models and anniversary releases are often more valuable, so keep an eye out for these. The 1:16 scale models are especially popular among collectors.
3. Bruder Toys Farm Equipment
Bruder toys are known for their realistic designs and functional features. While Bruder focuses on larger-scale models made from durable plastic, they still manage to capture the intricate details that farm toy collectors love. Bruder’s toys, including tractors, harvesters, animal trailers, and excavators, are incredibly popular with kids and collectors alike.
While Bruder toys are primarily designed for play, some of their more limited or specialized models, particularly those from the Bruder Profi series, can be considered an investment. These models often feature detailed interiors, movable parts, and functional attachments that increase their appeal to collectors.
Why It’s a Good Investment: Bruder’s models have an enduring popularity among both children and collectors, and their focus on functionality and detail makes them more likely to appreciate in value over time. Some models are produced in limited quantities, further driving up their desirability.
Tip: Pay attention to Bruder's special editions or exclusive models produced in partnership with agricultural brands, as these often become rarer and more valuable.
4. Schleich Farm Animals
While Schleich is best known for its hand-painted animal figurines, the company’s Farm World collection, which includes horses, cows, sheep, pigs, and more, has gained popularity with collectors and children alike. These animals are crafted with impressive realism and are designed to fit perfectly with farm playsets and dioramas.
Some Schleich animal sets, particularly vintage figures, have seen significant increases in value, especially if they are in mint condition or come in original packaging.
Why It’s a Good Investment: Schleich’s focus on realistic and high-quality craftsmanship has made their farm animals and playsets valuable over time. Limited editions, discontinued models, and out-of-production animals can command high prices from collectors.
Tip: Look for retired animals or discontinued sets from the Schleich Farm World collection, as these can become valuable over time. Their hand-painted designs make them especially appealing to collectors.
5. TOMY Big Farm Tractors and Vehicles
TOMY is known for creating durable farm toys that often come in larger sizes, making them great for outdoor play. While their Big Farm series is primarily geared toward children, certain models—especially limited edition releases or exclusive sets—can become valuable in the resale market.
TOMY farm vehicles, including tractors, harvesters, and trailers, can be fantastic investments if you find rare or discontinued models. Keep an eye on their special packaging or promotional items, as these are often more collectible.
Why It’s a Good Investment: TOMY’s toys are built to last, and models from their Big Farm collection, especially those in limited editions, can become sought-after collectibles.
Tip: Limited or exclusive models, especially those featuring unique colors or designs, are more likely to appreciate in value.
6. Vintage Farm Toys from the 1950s-1980s
Older farm toys from companies like Hubley, Marx, and Schuco are highly collectible and can be some of the best investments in the farm toy market. These vintage toys are often made from tin, die-cast metal, or plastic, and feature nostalgic designs that evoke memories of a bygone era of toy-making.
While finding vintage farm toys in good condition can be challenging, pieces from the 1950s-1980s—especially in original packaging—can fetch premium prices at auctions and on resale websites. Vintage John Deere, International Harvester, and Ford tractors are especially valuable.
Why It’s a Good Investment: Vintage toys are often rare and can appreciate significantly in value. With the growing interest in nostalgia-driven collectibles, older farm toys have seen a surge in demand.
Tip: Condition is key with vintage toys—always look for models in mint condition or those with original packaging to ensure the highest resale value.
Conclusion: Start Your Farm Toy Investment Journey
Farm toys are not only fun for kids but also offer a fantastic opportunity for collectors and investors. Whether you’re drawn to the classic die-cast tractors of ERTL, the realistic farm equipment from Bruder, or the vintage gems of the past, there’s a wealth of options for those looking to make a sound investment.
Remember, the best farm toys to invest in are often those that combine rarity, demand, and historical significance. By focusing on limited edition releases, mint-condition models, and toys from trusted brands like ERTL, SpecCast, and Schleich, you can build a collection that’s not only enjoyable to own but also valuable for the future.