The Hess Toy Truck. For generations, it's been more than just a toy; it's a symbol of the holidays, a cherished memory, and a burgeoning collectible for enthusiasts across the country. But navigating the world of Hess trucks can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding their value. This comprehensive guide will delve into the fascinating history of Hess trucks and, most importantly, provide a detailed breakdown of Hess Truck Prices By Year, helping you understand the factors that influence their worth and how to make informed decisions whether you're buying, selling, or simply appreciating these iconic vehicles.
Why Knowing Hess Truck Prices By Year Matters
Hess Truck Prices By Year: A Collector's Guide to Value and History
Understanding the price history of Hess trucks is crucial for several reasons:
- Collecting: For avid collectors, knowing the price trends helps them identify potential investment opportunities, fill gaps in their collections, and avoid overpaying for specific models.
- Selling: If you own Hess trucks you're considering selling, knowing their current market value ensures you get a fair price.
- Insurance: Accurately assessing the value of your Hess truck collection is essential for insurance purposes, protecting your investment against loss or damage.
- Appreciation: Even if you're not a collector, understanding the factors that influence Hess truck prices provides a deeper appreciation for their history and cultural significance.
This guide aims to provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary to confidently navigate the world of Hess truck prices.
A Brief History of the Hess Toy Truck
Before diving into the prices, a brief overview of the Hess truck's history is essential. The first Hess truck was released in 1964 by Leon Hess, founder of the Hess Corporation. His intention was to create an affordable, high-quality toy that would be a memorable Christmas gift. The original truck was a tanker trailer, and it quickly became a holiday tradition. Every year since, with a few exceptions, Hess has released a new and unique toy truck (or a combination of vehicles), making each model a snapshot of a particular year's design and technology.
Over the years, the trucks have evolved from simple tanker trailers to complex vehicles with working lights, sounds, and interactive features. The collectibility stems from this annual release, the limited production run, and the nostalgia associated with the brand.
Factors Influencing Hess Truck Prices
Several factors contribute to the value of a Hess truck. Understanding these elements is crucial for accurate price assessment:
- Year of Release: Newer trucks are generally less expensive, while older, rarer models command higher prices.
- Condition: The condition of the truck is paramount. A truck in its original box (MIB) in mint condition will be worth significantly more than a truck that has been played with and is showing signs of wear and tear.
- Completeness: Is the truck complete with all original accessories, batteries, and paperwork? Missing components can significantly reduce the value.
- Box Condition: The condition of the original box is almost as important as the truck itself. A pristine box adds significant value.
- Rarity: Some years had lower production runs or specific variations that make them rarer and more valuable.
- Demand: Like any collectible, demand plays a significant role. Popular models or those with unique features often command higher prices.
- Battery Condition: While often overlooked, working lights and sounds (powered by batteries) are a key component of the trucks' value. Original, working batteries (though risky due to potential leakage) can add value to some models.
- Market Trends: The collectible market fluctuates, and Hess truck prices are not immune. Economic conditions and overall interest in collectibles can influence values.
- Original Packaging: Packaging is extremely important, some collectors value the packaging over the truck itself, so you should always keep the original packaging.
Hess Truck Prices By Year: A Detailed Table
Note: Prices listed below are estimates and can vary significantly based on the condition, completeness, and market demand. These prices reflect a truck in good to excellent condition with its original box.
| Year | Model Description | Estimated Price (Good Condition) | Estimated Price (Mint Condition, Boxed) | Key Features/Rarity Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Tanker Truck | $250 - $500 | $800 - $1500+ | First Hess Truck, Highly Sought After, Original Green Color |
| 1965 | Tanker Truck | $200 - $400 | $600 - $1200+ | Similar to 1964, Slight Design Changes, Original Green Color |
| 1966 | Tanker Truck | $175 - $350 | $500 - $1000+ | Similar to 1964, Slight Design Changes, Original Green Color |
| 1967 | Tanker Truck | $150 - $300 | $450 - $900+ | Similar to 1964, Slight Design Changes, Original Green Color |
| 1968 | Tanker Truck | $125 - $250 | $400 - $800+ | Similar to 1964, Slight Design Changes, Original Green Color |
| 1969 | Tanker Truck | $100 - $200 | $350 - $700+ | Similar to 1964, Slight Design Changes, Original Green Color |
| 1970 | Fire Truck | $100 - $200 | $300 - $600 | First Fire Truck Model |
| 1971 | Voyager Tanker Ship | $100 - $200 | $300 - $600 | First Ship Model |
| 1972 | Truck and Airplane | $80 - $160 | $250 - $500 | First Airplane Model |
| 1973 | Truck and Trailer | $70 - $140 | $200 - $400 | Standard Truck and Trailer Design |
| 1974 | Helicopter | $60 - $120 | $180 - $360 | First Helicopter Model |
| 1975 | Truck and Space Shuttle | $50 - $100 | $150 - $300 | Space Shuttle Theme, Reflects the Era |
| 1976 | Bicentennial Tanker | $40 - $80 | $120 - $240 | Commemorates the US Bicentennial |
| 1977 | Fuel Tanker | $35 - $70 | $100 - $200 | Standard Tanker Design |
| 1978 | Truck and Racer | $30 - $60 | $90 - $180 | Racing Theme |
| 1979 | Training Van | $30 - $60 | $90 - $180 | Unique Van Design |
| 1980 | Helicopter | $30 - $60 | $90 - $180 | Second Helicopter Model |
| 1981 | Tanker Truck | $25 - $50 | $75 - $150 | Standard Tanker Design |
| 1982 | Truck and Space Shuttle | $25 - $50 | $75 - $150 | Updated Space Shuttle Theme |
| 1983 | Emergency Truck | $25 - $50 | $75 - $150 | Emergency Vehicle Theme |
| 1984 | Fire Truck | $25 - $50 | $75 - $150 | Fire Truck Model |
| 1985 | Truck and Space Shuttle | $25 - $50 | $75 - $150 | Final Space Shuttle Model of the Early Years |
| 1986 | Truck and Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Truck and Helicopter |
| 1987 | Gasolene Tanker | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Classic Tanker Design |
| 1988 | Truck and Racer | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Racing Theme |
| 1989 | Fire Truck | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Fire Truck Model |
| 1990 | Truck and Space Shuttle with Satellite | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Space Shuttle Theme with a Satellite |
| 1991 | Truck and Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Truck and Helicopter |
| 1992 | Tanker Truck | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Classic Tanker Design |
| 1993 | Rescue Truck | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Emergency Vehicle Theme |
| 1994 | Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Helicopter Model |
| 1995 | Truck and Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Truck and Helicopter |
| 1996 | Emergency Truck | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Emergency Vehicle Theme |
| 1997 | Truck and Racer | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Racing Theme |
| 1998 | Truck with Motorcycle and Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Truck, Motorcycle, and Helicopter |
| 1999 | Truck with Space Shuttle | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Space Shuttle Theme |
| 2000 | Fire Truck | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Fire Truck Model |
| 2001 | Helicopter with Motorcycle | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Helicopter and Motorcycle |
| 2002 | Truck and Airplane | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Truck and Airplane |
| 2003 | Emergency Truck | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Emergency Vehicle Theme |
| 2004 | Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Helicopter Model |
| 2005 | Emergency Truck and Rescue Vehicle | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Emergency Truck and Rescue Vehicle |
| 2006 | Truck and Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Truck and Helicopter |
| 2007 | Truck and Horse Trailer | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Truck and Horse Trailer Combo |
| 2008 | Truck and Front Loader | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Truck and Front Loader Combo |
| 2009 | Race Truck and Two Racers | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Race Truck with Two Racers Combo |
| 2010 | Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Helicopter Model |
| 2011 | Truck and Space Shuttle with Satellite | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Space Shuttle Theme with Satellite |
| 2012 | Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Helicopter Model |
| 2013 | Truck and Tractor | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Truck and Tractor Combo |
| 2014 | Helicopter | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | 50th Anniversary Edition |
| 2015 | Truck and Space Shuttle with Light and Sound | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Space Shuttle Theme with Enhanced Light and Sound Features |
| 2016 | Truck and Airplane | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Combination of Truck and Airplane |
| 2017 | Truck and Racer | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Racing Theme |
| 2018 | Cargo Plane and Jet | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Cargo Plane and Jet Combo |
| 2019 | Truck and Space Rover | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Truck and Space Rover Combo |
| 2020 | Ambulance and Rescue Truck | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Ambulance and Rescue Truck Combo |
| 2021 | Flatbed Truck with Hot Rod | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Flatbed Truck with Hot Rod combo |
| 2022 | RV with ATV | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | RV with ATV Combo |
| 2023 | Tow Truck with Motorcycle | $20 - $40 | $60 - $120 | Tow Truck with Motorcycle |
Where to Find Hess Truck Prices
- eBay: A vast marketplace for buying and selling Hess trucks. Search completed listings to see actual selling prices.
- Online Auction Houses: Sites like LiveAuctioneers often feature Hess truck auctions.
- Collector Forums: Online forums dedicated to Hess truck collecting are valuable resources for pricing information and expert opinions.
- Appraisal Services: For high-value collections, consider hiring a professional appraiser specializing in toys and collectibles.
Tips for Buying and Selling Hess Trucks
- Research Thoroughly: Before buying or selling, research the specific model you're interested in. Compare prices from multiple sources and consider the condition and completeness.
- Inspect Carefully: If possible, inspect the truck in person before buying. Look for signs of wear and tear, missing parts, and box damage.
- Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask the seller questions about the truck's history, condition, and completeness.
- Be Patient: Finding the right Hess truck at the right price takes time. Be patient and don't rush into a purchase.
- Protect Your Investment: Once you acquire a Hess truck, store it properly in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
- Difficulty Assessing Condition: Online photos can be deceiving. Request detailed photos and ask specific questions about the truck's condition.
- Counterfeit Trucks: While less common, counterfeit Hess trucks exist. Purchase from reputable sellers and examine the truck closely for signs of authenticity.
- Fluctuating Market Values: Hess truck prices can fluctuate. Stay informed about market trends and adjust your buying or selling strategy accordingly.
Conclusion
Understanding Hess Truck Prices By Year is an essential aspect of collecting, selling, or simply appreciating these iconic toys. By considering the factors that influence their value, utilizing available resources, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the world of Hess trucks and make informed decisions. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, the Hess truck continues to be a symbol of holiday cheer and a tangible piece of American history. Remember that beyond the monetary value, the true worth of a Hess truck lies in the memories and joy it brings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most valuable Hess truck?
A: The 1964 Hess Tanker Truck is generally considered the most valuable, especially in mint condition with its original box.
Q: Are Hess trucks a good investment?
A: While some Hess trucks have appreciated significantly in value, collecting should primarily be driven by passion rather than investment potential. Market trends can fluctuate.
Q: Where can I buy Hess trucks?
A: You can buy Hess trucks on eBay, online auction houses, collector forums, and from private sellers.
Q: How can I tell if my Hess truck is authentic?
A: Examine the truck closely for official Hess markings, high-quality construction, and accurate details. Compare it to known authentic models.
Q: What should I do with old batteries in my Hess truck?
A: Remove old batteries immediately to prevent corrosion. Dispose of them properly according to local regulations.
Q: Does the original box really matter?
A: Absolutely! The original box in good condition can significantly increase the value of a Hess truck.
Q: Are Hess trucks still made today?
A: Yes, Hess continues to release a new toy truck each year, typically around the holiday season. They are available for purchase online.