Most Valuable Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Action Figures

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles exploded onto the pop culture scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s, capturing the hearts and imaginations of children and adults alike.

The original comic book series morphed into an animated series, live-action movies, video games, and of course, action figures. For collectors, some of those original TMNT action figures are now highly sought after and worth big bucks.

The rarest and most valuable vintage Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures are the pre-production prototypes and limited edition exclusives from the 1980s and 1990s.

Original Playmates 1988 Series

The very first series of TMNT action figures was released by Playmates in 1988 to coincide with the cartoon show. These original figures featured the four Turtles - Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael - as well as key allies and villains like Splinter, April O’Neil, Rocksteady, and Bebop.

This first series is valuable for a few reasons. For one, as the very first TMNT action figures ever made, they hold a special place in collectors' hearts. They also featured some unique characteristics, like soft heads and weapons that fit into the figures' belts - features that got changed in later releases.

Mint, loose examples of the original Leonardo and Donatello figures have sold for over $600 apiece in recent years. Unopened examples in pristine condition can easily fetch over $1,000 at auction. Even more common figures like Rocksteady and Bebop can sell for $100 or more if in perfect shape with accessories.

Pre-Production Prototypes

The holy grail for serious TMNT collectors are pre-production prototypes and test samples. These figures were created by Playmates to fine-tune designs before mass production. Few were produced, and even fewer have survived.

Figures like the “S3” Leo prototype with a half-finished head have sold for nearly $7,000 in online auctions. Other test samples, like the “Pizza Tossin’ Michelangelo” or the mysterious “Man Ray” turtle, are so rare that it’s unclear how many exist in private collections today.

These prototypes offer a unique window into the development process for collectors.

SDCC Exclusive Figures

Over the past decade, Playmates has produced special edition TMNT figures exclusively for San Diego Comic Con and New York Comic Con. Figures like the “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time” box set featuring the four Turtles in 16th century garb were limited to sets of 250-500 pieces.

These convention exclusives now command top dollar on the secondary market, with mint, complete sets selling for $1,200-$1,500 each. Other exclusives like the TMNT II: The Secret of the Ooze Figures from 2012 and Metalhead from 2014 also sell for $300-$500 for those lucky enough to have purchased them originally.

Original Movie Tie-In Figures

Playmates also produced a line of TMNT action figures tied to the original 1990 live-action film. Key figures included the four Turtles in their movie garb, as well as villains like The Shredder, Tatsu, and Tokka and Rahzar.

While not quite as sought after as the very first 1988 series, mint examples of the 1990 film figures can still fetch $300 or more for highly desired characters.

The infamous Scratch the Cat figure from this line, which was pulled from shelves shortly after release due to choking hazard concerns, is especially valuable and sought after today.

Later 1990s Figures

As the TMNT craze reached its peak in the early ‘90s, Playmates churned out wave after wave of Ninja Turtles action figures. By 1993-1994, the classic popularity had started to fade, but many late series figures are still sought after by collectors today.

Key examples include the Mutatin’ Turtles from 1993 with their semi-translucent skin, the giant Monty Moose figure from 1994, and later figures like Wingnut and Screwloose based on the animated series. While not worth quite as much as the rarest 80s figures, these 1990s figures can still sell for $50-$100+ if in great condition with accessories.

Recent Collectibles

Though not quite as old as the vintage 80s and 90s figures, more modern TMNT collectibles are also starting to gain value. Product lines like NECA’s “Classics Revisited” series feature new figures based directly on the classic 80s Playmates molds but with additional articulation and detail. These NECA figures sell out quickly and can command $50 or more on secondary markets shortly after release.

The Super7 Ultimates line of highly articulated, extra detailed TMNT figures has also become popular with collectors, with rare variants now selling for $100+.

Certain Funko Pop! vinyl figures, like the first TMNT series from 2016, are sought after as well. More recent action figure lines from companies like Mondo, SuperImpo, and more demonstrate that the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles continue to have a loyal following over 30 years later.

While not yet as valuable as those original 80s toys, these newer collectibles may well be hot commodities decades from now.

Factors That Drive Value

When collecting vintage TMNT action figures, what factors make certain pieces especially valuable? Here are some of the main things that drive the value of rare and coveted figures:

• Age/Year Released: The older the figure, the more valuable, with those original 1988 series worth the most.
• Condition: Figures in pristine shape with no damage, intact accessories, and original packaging fetch higher prices.
• Rarity/Limited Release: Figures only released in limited quantities or prototypes with very few known examples command huge premiums.
• Character Popularity: Key characters like the four Turtles or fan favorites like Casey Jones are more sought after.
• Unreleased/Recalled: Scrapped or recalled figures like Scratch or Man Ray are instantly rare.
• Packaging Variations: Differences like the 1988 series having painted vs. unpainted weapons on back packaging impact value.

Buying Guide and Spotting Fakes

For those looking to start collecting valuable vintage TMNT figures, here are some tips:

• Compare Photos: Study archived catalog images and collector photos online to spot any differences or errors.
• Examine Logos: Look for the vintage Playmates logo and trademarks on older figures and packaging.
• Review Accessories: Make sure all accessories match the original release and show no signs of modification.
• Buy Graded/Certified: Services like Action Figure Authority can authenticate and grade figures for a fee.
• Check eBay Sales: Review recent eBay sales to determine fair market values for what you are looking to purchase.

While the TMNT have never faded away from the public consciousness thanks to endless reboots and revivals, those original toys from the height of Turtlemania in the late 80s/early 90s have undeniable nostalgia and value for collectors today. For Turtle fans and toy collectors alike, these rare Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures are true pieces of pop culture history.

Leonardo

As leader of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Leonardo action figures are always in high demand from collectors and fans. When it comes to valuable vintage Leonardo action figures, two, in particular, stand out:

The original 1988 Playmates Leonardo - As the very first Leonardo figure, mint condition loose examples can sell for $600+. New in package examples have sold for as much as $5,000 in online auctions. Key traits are the soft head, blue ninja mask, and green skin.

The TMNT 1990 Movie "Ninja Kickin' Leo" - This figure captures Leo's look from the classic 1990 live-action film. It was only released in 1990 and is tricky to find intact. Mint, loose copies have sold for $300+.

Other valuable vintage Leonardo figures include the 1991 "Sewer Samurai Leo" and the 1993 Mutatin' Leo, which can both sell for $100+ due to their limited production runs.

Donatello

Donatello has always been a fan favorite Turtle, known for his scientific mind and technical expertise. Two vintage Donny figures are especially prized by TMNT collectors:

The original 1988 Playmates Donatello - The very first Donatello figure made. Complete with purple mask and bo staff, mint loose copies have sold for $600+. Even nicer examples in the original packaging can hammer for $2,000+.

1991 "Football Player Don" - This goofy figure of Don in football gear was only available via a mail-away offer. Its limited release makes it rare. Mint copies have sold for $300+.

Other Donatello figures like 1989's "Pizza Tossin' Don" and 1992's "Sewer Surfin' Don" also command premium prices around the $100 range for mint, complete examples.

And any super-rare prototypes or test samples featuring the purple-masked Turtle would potentially be worth thousands to the right collector.

Michelangelo

Michelangelo has always been the wisecracking, lovable prankster of the group. Two Mikey figures are particularly sought after:

1988 Playmates Michelangelo - The very first action figure for the orange-banded Turtle. Still has the soft head and comes with nunchucks. Loose examples in great shape can sell for $500+.

1993 Mutatin' Michelangelo - This unique figure featured a translucent orange-tinted body, making Mikey look like he was "mutating". Harder to find than the other Turtles from this lineup. Complete versions can sell for $150+.

Other Mikey figures like the 1990 Movie "Ninja Kicking Michelangelo" and the very common 1989 "Pizza Tossin' Michelangelo" still sell for $50-$100 regularly in great condition due to the character's lasting popularity.

Raphael

The bad boy of the group, Raphael is another heavy hitter when it comes to valuable vintage TMNT action figures. The top two are:

1988 Playmates Raphael - The first ever Raph figure, noted for its dark green skin and red mask. One of the toughest to find from the first series. Mint, loose copies can sell for $500+.

1990 Movie "Ninja Kickin' Raphael" - Featuring a sculpt and outfit based on the 1990 live-action film, a sought after figure. Mint, loose examples have sold for $300 in recent years.

Other Raphael figures like 1993's Mutatin' Raphael and 1995's Tie-In "TMNT III Raphael" can sell in the $100 range depending on condition. And bizarre prototypes like the "Crazy Raphael" test figure with swollen arms could sell for thousands.

Casey Jones

Beyond the Turtles themselves, human allies like Casey Jones are also sought after by collectors:

1990 "Casey Jones" figure - The first figure based on the vigilante character from the comics and 1990 movie. Loose copies in great shape can easily fetch $100+.

1992 "Ninja Strike Casey Jones" - A later release with a special "ninja strike" action feature. Harder to find than the 1990 version. Mint copies have sold for $150+.

Finding either classic Casey Jones figure complete with mask, sporting gear, and weapons like hockey sticks or baseball bats can command a premium. The 1990 figure in good condition remains the more affordable option in the $50-$100 range.

The Shredder

As the Turtles' archnemesis, figures based on The Shredder are always in high demand:

1989 "Shredder" - The original figure sported a blue cape and unique face shield head sculpt. Loose examples in great shape can sell for $100+.

1991 "Super Shredder" - Based on Shredder's mutated appearance in TMNT II. Very rare for mint complete versions to surface. $300+

1993 "Mutatin' Shredder" - Features a clear pink soft plastic body over the armor for a mutating look. Also pricey at $100+ mint.

Shredder has had many action figure incarnations over the decades, but those earliest 1980s/1990s versions remain the most sought after by collectors. Even modern updates like Super7's 2021 Ultimates! Super Shredder still commands aftermarket prices of $100+ though.

Splinter

Master Splinter, the Turtles' mentor, is another figure that can command premium pricing:

1988 “Splinter” - The very first figure is still the most valuable for collectors. $100+ for nice loose copies.

1992 “Splinter” - Slight redesign with a kinder facial expression. Harder to find than the '88 version. $100+ loose.

Splinter is one of the toughest original TMNT figures to find in true mint condition, as his cloth outfit and fine details made him prone to damage. Any pre-production prototypes featuring the character would also be enormously valuable.

April O’Neil

The Turtles' first human friend April has seen her fair share of figures over the decades too. But two in particular stand out as valuable for collectors:

1989 “April O’Neil” - The very first April figure, noted for the yellow jumpsuit. Loose copies can sell for $100+.

1993 “Reporter April” - A later release showing April as a news reporter. Slightly harder to find. $100+ loose.

As one of the only female human characters from those original series, April O'Neil figures always draw interest from collectors if in great condition. The 1989 edition remains the most affordable option in the $50-$100 range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about collecting valuable vintage Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures:

What are the most valuable or rarest TMNT figures?

The most valuable tend to be the earliest figures from 1988-1990, like the very first releases of the 4 Turtles and characters like Splinter, Shredder, etc. Ultra rare items like unreleased prototypes can also be worth thousands.

Where is the best place to buy rare TMNT figures?

eBay is the top source online. Collector forums, toy shows, and conventions are also great places. Just make sure to verify authenticity.

How can you tell if a vintage TMNT figure is fake?

Compare it closely to collector photos of real examples. Look for manufacturer logos molded into the plastic. Examine small details carefully for any differences.

What should you look for when evaluating conditions?

Check for paint wear, fading, discoloration, and yellowing, especially on white plastic. Make sure joints, weapons, accessories are intact. Original packaging increases value exponentially.

Do newer TMNT figures have any value?

Some like limited edition exclusives or collectibles from the 2000s/2010s can sell for $50+. But most modern figures won't have real value for 10-20 years. Stick to pre-2000 figures for the best investment potential.

How should you clean or repair vintage TMNT figures?

Be very careful. Gently clean loose dirt with distilled water and mild dish soap. Don't try to whiten plastic. Repair damage carefully with superglue. Restoration can hurt value for serious collectors.

Can you still find vintage TMNT figures at thrift stores or flea markets?

It's possible but becoming increasingly rare. Valuable figures often get spotted and bought up quickly. But you might luck out, so it can be worth browsing regularly. Just know the average prices so you don't overpay.

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