Imagine stumbling upon a dusty old lunchbox in your attic – a relic from your childhood. You might not think much of it, but that seemingly insignificant item could be worth a small fortune.
This article explores the fascinating world of vintage lunchbox collecting, showcasing some of the most sought-after items, from beloved cartoon characters to legendary bands. You will discover the factors that contribute to a lunchbox’s value and learn strategies to enhance the potential of your own collection.
5. The Beatles 1965 Lunchbox and Thermos
The Beatles 1965 lunchbox (and thermos) by Alladin is a great item. But even though this one is not the rarest lunchbox, it’s a very popular collectable for all Beatles fans. The lunchbox features a blue portrait of the band, and the thermos shows the group playing their music.
One in great condition with the thermos sold on December 17th, 2024, for $1,095.55.
4. Scooby Doo 1973 Lunchbox and Thermos
The Scooby Doo 1973 lunchbox by King Seeley Thermos Co. is a terrific item. The lunchbox features a picture of Shaggy, Velma, Daphnie, Fred and looking at a mansion with Scooby-Doo hiding behind them. The thermos features Shaggy petting Scooby-Doo.
One in great condition with the thermos sold on October 12th, 2014 for $1,395.
3. 1968 Star Trek Lunchbox and Thermos
The Star Trek 1968 lunchbox (and thermos) by Aladdin is a wonderful item. The lunchbox features a picture of the USS Enterprise, and the thermos shows Captain Kirk and Spock ready for battle.
One in good condition with the thermos sold on December 27th, 2024, for $1,400.
2. 1954 Mickey Mouse Lunchbox and Thermos
The Mickey Mouse 1954 lunchbox (and thermos) by Walt Disney Productions is a wonderful item. The lunchbox features Pluto pulling a cart carrying Donald Duck’s nephews to school and Mickey Mouse going with them. The thermos shows the same picture.
One in great condition with the thermos sold on December 10th, 2024, for $2,249.
1. 1954 Superman Lunchbox and Thermos
In 1954, Superman was big, and his popularity came from comic books, radio, and TV. This highly sought after lunch box and thermos was produced by Universal and was one of the first branded lunchboxes. This lunchbox features Superman battling robots and rescuing a woman.
One in great condition with the thermos sold on January 1st, 2025, for $8,500.
Tips to get the most value out of your lunchboxes:
Back then, when you got your lunchbox, I’m sure you didn’t think in 20 plus years it would be worth a lot of money. But remember, it is rare for most metal lunchboxes to exceed $100, but having said that, these are some tips that you can use to make sure you get the most value out of your lunchbox.
3. Open the lunchbox to see if they have the original tag or inserts. Collectors will pay a premium for an unused lunchbox.
2. Make sure your lunchbox is in good condition. A lot of the lunchboxes were made of metal so it’s understandable that they may have some rust or damage after use. But if it doesn’t and your lunchbox is in mint condition, that’s a great thing!
1. The thermos! The lunchbox can go for one price, but can almost triple, sometimes more if you have the matching thermos. Collectors love complete sets.
Gary Miceli has loved film from a very early age, from the silent masterpieces of Charlie Chaplin to recent blockbuster hits. His love for cinema from all eras of history inspired him to go to film school and graduate with his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. He continues to work hard in this wonderful field and always explores new avenues of expressing his love for movie/TV history.