Value Of Hess Trucks By Year

Value Of Hess Trucks By Year Reviews.Truckstrend.com

The Definitive Guide to Hess Truck Values By Year: A Collector's Deep Dive

The Hess Toy Truck. Just the name evokes a sense of nostalgia for many. For decades, these annual releases have been a holiday tradition, a symbol of childhood joy, and a coveted collectible. But beyond the sentimental value, lies a real market with fluctuating prices and factors that determine whether you're holding onto a valuable piece of history.

Value Of Hess Trucks By Year

This comprehensive guide will explore the value of Hess trucks by year, delving into the specifics of what makes certain models more desirable than others. We'll cover everything from the condition of the box to the rarity of specific variations. Let's get started!

Why Hess Trucks are More Than Just Toys: Understanding the Collectible Appeal

Before we delve into specific values, it's important to understand why Hess trucks have become such sought-after collectibles. It's more than just nostalgia; it's a combination of factors that contribute to their enduring appeal.

• Limited Annual Release: Hess releases a new truck (or related vehicle) every year, making each model a limited edition. This scarcity automatically creates a collectable environment.

• 

  Quality and Durability: Hess trucks are known for their robust construction and attention to detail. They're built to last, which is a huge plus for collectors looking for pieces in good condition.

• Nostalgia Factor: For many, Hess trucks are tied to fond childhood memories. Receiving one each year became a tradition, creating a powerful emotional connection.



• Technological Innovation: Over the years, Hess trucks have incorporated increasingly sophisticated features, from working lights to motorized functions. This constant innovation adds to their appeal.

• Investment Potential: While not all Hess trucks are guaranteed to increase in value, certain models have appreciated significantly over time, attracting collectors looking for investment opportunities.

  

Key Factors Influencing Hess Truck Values: What Makes One Truck Worth More Than Another?

Understanding the factors that drive Hess truck values is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Here's a breakdown of the most important elements:

1. Year of Release: Generally, older trucks tend to be more valuable due to their scarcity. However, condition and specific features can override this general rule.

2. Condition: The condition of the truck is paramount. A truck in mint condition, with its original packaging, will always command a higher price than a damaged or used one.

3. Original Packaging: The box is almost as important as the truck itself. A complete box, in good condition, with all inserts, significantly increases the value.

4. Completeness: Are all the original parts present? Missing pieces, like promotional inserts or battery cards, can decrease the value.

5. Functionality: Do all the lights, sounds, and motorized features work as intended? Malfunctioning features can significantly lower the price.

6. Rarity: Some trucks were produced in smaller quantities than others, making them rarer and more valuable. Special editions or variations also fall into this category.

7. Market Demand: Like any collectible, Hess truck values are influenced by market demand. Popular models or those associated with significant historical events may command higher prices.

8. Box Variations: Slight variations in the box design or printing can sometimes indicate a rarer version, increasing the value. Collectors obsess over these details!

Hess Truck Value by Year: A Comprehensive Guide (with Estimated Values)

Disclaimer: The values listed below are estimates based on recent sales data and market trends. Actual values may vary depending on the specific condition, completeness, and market demand at the time of sale. These values assume the truck is in excellent to mint condition with the original box.

Note: Values are expressed as ranges to account for condition variations. Values are based on recent sales data and are subject to change.

• 1964 Hess Tanker Truck: ($3,000 - $7,000+) The original and arguably the most iconic. Condition is everything here. Early versions with specific box variations can fetch top dollar.
• 1965 Hess Fire Truck: ($800 - $2,500) Another highly sought-after model. Look for clean examples with a bright red finish.
• 1966 Hess Voyager: ($500 - $1,500) The first Hess boat! Condition of the boat and trailer is crucial.
• 1967 Hess Tanker Truck: ($400 - $1,200) Similar to the 1964 model, but generally less valuable.
• 1968 Hess B-Train Tanker Truck: ($300 - $900) A unique design that appeals to collectors.
• 1969 Hess Fire Truck: ($250 - $750) A smaller, more compact fire truck compared to the 1965 model.
• 1970 Hess Fire Truck: ($200 - $600) Features a ladder that extends and retracts.
• 1971 Hess Tanker Truck: ($150 - $450) A classic design that remains popular with collectors.
• 1972 Hess Tanker Truck: ($125 - $375) Similar to the 1971 model, but with slight variations.
• 1973 Hess Tanker Truck: ($100 - $300) Features a more streamlined design.
• 1974 Hess Tanker Truck: ($90 - $270) Has a slightly different color scheme than previous models.
• 1975 Hess Fire Truck: ($80 - $240) Features a rotating ladder and flashing lights.
• 1976 Hess Bicentennial Tanker Truck: ($70 - $210) Commemorates the US Bicentennial.
• 1977 Hess Oil Tanker Truck and Helicopter: ($60 - $180) The first Hess truck to include a separate vehicle.
• 1978 Hess Training Van and First Aid Truck: ($55 - $165) A unique set with a focus on safety.
• 1979 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle: ($50 - $150) Capitalizing on the space shuttle craze.
• 1980 Hess Training Van and Helicopter: ($45 - $135) Another training van set, this time with a helicopter.
• 1981 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle: ($40 - $120) A slightly different version of the 1979 set.
• 1982 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle: ($35 - $105) Features updated graphics and design.
• 1983 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle: ($30 - $90) The last of the space shuttle series.
• 1984 Hess Tanker Truck: ($25 - $75) A return to the classic tanker truck design.
• 1985 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle with Sound: ($30 - $90) Adds sound effects to the space shuttle.
• 1986 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle with Sound: ($25 - $75) Updated graphics and sound effects.
• 1987 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle with Sound: ($20 - $60) The final year for the space shuttle with sound.
• 1988 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle: ($15 - $45) A return to the original space shuttle design.
• 1989 Hess Fire Truck Bank: ($20 - $60) A unique fire truck design that also functions as a bank.
• 1990 Hess Truck and Racer: ($15 - $45) Features a sleek race car that can be launched from the truck.
• 1991 Hess Truck and Racer: ($15 - $45) Updated graphics and design for the truck and racer.
• 1992 Hess Truck and Helicopter: ($15 - $45) A modern helicopter with working lights and sounds.
• 1993 Hess Rescue Truck: ($15 - $45) A rugged rescue truck with a variety of tools and accessories.
• 1994 Hess Rescue Truck: ($15 - $45) Updated graphics and design for the rescue truck.
• 1995 Hess Truck and Helicopter: ($15 - $45) A new helicopter design with improved features.
• 1996 Hess Emergency Truck: ($15 - $45) A versatile emergency truck with a variety of lights and sounds.
• 1997 Hess Truck and Racer: ($15 - $45) A high-speed race car with realistic sound effects.
• 1998 Hess Recreation Van: ($15 - $45) A fun recreation van with a variety of accessories.
• 1999 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle: ($15 - $45) A futuristic space shuttle design with working lights and sounds.
• 2000 Hess Truck and Motorcycle: ($15 - $45) A powerful motorcycle with realistic engine sounds.
• 2001 Hess Helicopter with Motorcycle: ($15 - $45) A sleek helicopter carrying a motorcycle.
• 2002 Hess Truck and Airplane: ($15 - $45) A classic airplane design with working lights and sounds.
• 2003 Hess Tow Truck: ($15 - $45) A powerful tow truck with a working winch.
• 2004 Hess Helicopter: ($15 - $45) A modern helicopter with improved features.
• 2005 Hess Emergency Truck: ($15 - $45) A versatile emergency truck with a variety of lights and sounds.
• 2006 Hess Truck and Helicopter: ($15 - $45) A new truck and helicopter design with improved features.
• 2007 Hess Mini Tanker Truck: ($15 - $45) A compact tanker truck with realistic details.
• 2008 Hess Truck and Front Loader: ($15 - $45) A powerful front loader with working lights and sounds.
• 2009 Hess Race Truck and Racer: ($15 - $45) A high-speed race truck with a sleek race car.
• 2010 Hess Truck and Space Cruiser with Scout: ($15 - $45) A futuristic space cruiser with a small scout vehicle.
• 2011 Hess Truck and Racer: ($15 - $45) A modern truck and racer design with improved features.
• 2012 Hess Helicopter and Rescue Truck: ($15 - $45) A versatile helicopter and rescue truck set.
• 2013 Hess Truck and Tractor: ($15 - $45) A classic truck and tractor design with realistic details.
• 2014 Hess Jet and Helicopter: ($15 - $45) A sleek jet and helicopter set with working lights and sounds.
• 2015 Hess Truck and Space Shuttle with Sound: ($15 - $45) A new space shuttle design with improved sound effects.
• 2016 Hess Toy Truck and Dragster: ($15 - $45) A unique truck and dragster combination with realistic details.
• 2017 Hess Tow Truck Rescue Team: ($15 - $45) A powerful tow truck with a rescue team.
• 2018 Hess Cargo Plane and Jet: ($15 - $45) A large cargo plane with a smaller jet.
• 2019 Hess Truck and Space Rover: ($15 - $45) A futuristic truck and space rover combination.
• 2020 Hess RV with ATV and Motorbike: ($15 - $45) An RV carrying an ATV and motorbike.
• 2021 Hess Ambulance and Rescue: ($15 - $45) An ambulance with rescue vehicle.
• 2022 Hess Tanker Truck and Trailer: ($15 - $45) A tanker truck with trailer.
• 2023 Hess Police Truck and Cruiser: ($15 - $45) A police truck and cruiser.

Pro tips from us...

• Do Your Research: Before buying or selling, research recent sales data on sites like eBay, WorthPoint, and specialized Hess truck collector forums.
• Inspect Carefully: Always inspect the truck and packaging thoroughly for any damage or missing parts.
• Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask the seller questions about the truck's history, condition, and completeness.
• Preserve Your Collection: Store your Hess trucks in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to prevent fading or damage.
• Consider Professional Grading: For particularly valuable trucks, consider having them professionally graded by a reputable grading service.

Common mistakes to avoid are...

• Overestimating Condition: Be realistic about the condition of your truck. Minor flaws can significantly impact the value.
• Ignoring the Box: The box is an integral part of the collectible. Don't overlook its condition and completeness.
• Paying Too Much: Don't get caught up in bidding wars. Set a budget and stick to it.
• Selling Too Quickly: Take your time and research the market before selling your trucks. You might be surprised at how much they're worth.

Resources for Hess Truck Collectors: Where to Learn More and Connect with Fellow Enthusiasts

The Hess truck collecting community is vibrant and supportive. Here are some resources to help you connect with fellow enthusiasts and learn more about Hess trucks:

• Hess Toy Truck Collector Forums: Online forums are a great place to connect with other collectors, ask questions, and share information.
• Hess Truck Collector Clubs: Join a local or national Hess truck collector club to attend meetings, shows, and auctions.
• Online Auction Sites: eBay is a popular platform for buying and selling Hess trucks, but be sure to do your research and inspect carefully.
• Specialized Hess Truck Dealers: Some dealers specialize in Hess trucks and can offer expert advice and appraisals.
• Books and Guides: Several books and guides have been published on Hess truck collecting, providing valuable information on history, variations, and values.

The Future of Hess Truck Collecting: What to Expect in the Years to Come

The Hess truck collecting hobby remains strong, with a dedicated following of enthusiasts. While market trends can fluctuate, the enduring appeal of these iconic toys suggests that they will continue to be valuable collectibles for years to come. As older models become increasingly scarce, their value is likely to appreciate. The key to success in Hess truck collecting is to do your research, be patient, and collect what you love!

Conclusion: Your Journey into the World of Hess Truck Values

We've covered a lot of ground in this comprehensive guide to Hess truck values. From understanding the factors that influence prices to providing estimated values by year, you now have the knowledge and tools to navigate the exciting world of Hess truck collecting. Remember to always do your research, inspect carefully, and collect what you love. Happy collecting!

External Link: For more information on the history of the Hess Corporation, visit their official website here.

Internal Link: Be sure to check out our other article on [The History of Toy Trucks] for a broader look at the toy truck collecting hobby.

Internal Link: Also read our article on [How to Spot Fake Collectibles] to keep your collection safe.