Spin to Win
Yo-yos were once the ultimate playground toy, but some of these childhood favorites are now fetching serious cash. From early wooden models to rare promotional editions, collectors are spinning out over these vintage finds.
Duncan Jeweled Tournament Yo-Yo (1950s)
Estimated value: $500–$1,000
A flashy classic with rhinestone accents, this wooden yo-yo was a high-end toy in its day. Pristine models with original jewels are hard to find.
From Classic Toy to Global Legacy: The Story of Duncan Yo-Yos, Eyes Of Echo
Tom Kuhn Silver Bullet 1 (SB-1)
Estimated value: $200–$500
The first aluminum yo-yo designed by a dentist in the 1970s, this model helped launch modern yo-yoing. SB-1s in original cases are highly collectible.
Russell Coca-Cola Yo-Yo (1970s)
Estimated value: $100–$250
These plastic yo-yos were part of a Coca-Cola promotion and are prized for their branding. Variants from international markets can be even more valuable.
Vintage Russell YOYO coke coca cola, Oh Boy, Toys!!!
Duncan Butterfly (First Edition, 1958)
Estimated value: $150–$300
The original version of this popular model featured wood construction before switching to plastic. Rare early runs fetch good prices.
Duncan Butterfly YoYo || Unboxing,
Tom Kuhn Roller Woody
Estimated value: $150–$250
A beautifully crafted wood-and-metal yo-yo from the 1990s that’s now sought after for its nostalgic design and smooth play.
Russell Pepsi Yo-Yo (Philippines Edition)
Estimated value: $100–$200
Used in promotions abroad, these yo-yos are rare in the US. Bright colors and mint logos increase value.
Bandai Hyper Yo-Yo (Japan, 1990s)
Estimated value: $75–$200
A line tied to anime and youth marketing in Japan. Limited edition characters or packaging make these a hot collector’s item.
Hyper Cluster Yoyo Bandai Red Starter Pack Open Unbox and Assemble, bwcpublishing
Duncan Gold Award Yo-Yo
Estimated value: $250–$400
Awarded to contest winners in the 1950s, these solid gold-colored wooden yo-yos have a limited print run and are highly collectible.
YoYoJam Dark Magic
Estimated value: $75–$150
Popular with competitors in the early 2000s, this hybrid model of metal and plastic is a favorite of many pro players.
Dark Magic Yoyojam Product Demo. Yoyo tricks! Video., Lars / Yoyoplay.com
Playmaxx ProYo II (1980s)
Estimated value: $50–$100
A staple of yo-yo culture in the '80s, especially if it features rare promotional branding.
Pro Yo II commercial, TheGamegod1984
Tom Kuhn No-Jive 3-in-1
Estimated value: $100–$250
Known for its modular design, this wooden yo-yo can be adjusted for different styles. Still playable and highly sought after.
Tom Kuhn No Jive 3in1 and fixed axle February, simyo3in1
Duncan Tournament Top (1930s)
Estimated value: $600–$1,200
One of the earliest branded yo-yos. Wooden with gold foil labels. Extremely rare and valuable.
YoYoFactory 888 (First Run)
Estimated value: $100–$200
A legendary metal yo-yo from the early 2000s. First editions and special colorways command high prices.
YoyoFactory 888 - Honest Yoyo Review, Throws N' Brews
Dale Myrberg Custom Yo-Yos
Estimated value: $300–$500
Hand-turned wooden yo-yos from a legendary maker. Signed pieces or limited editions fetch top dollar.
This Is Utah | Yo-Yo Man Dale Myrberg, This Is Utah
Duncan Trans-Axle Imperial (Early 1990s)
Estimated value: $50–$100
Innovative at the time, this model introduced new tricks to casual players. Still collectible today.
Imperial Yo-Yo from Duncan Toys, TTPM Toy Reviews
YoYoJam Hitman
Estimated value: $75–$125
A signature model from world champion Johnnie DelValle. Balanced weight and stylish looks make it a fan favorite.
Yo-Yo Review of The Hit Man from YoYoJam, TheYotard
Russell 7-Up Yo-Yo
Estimated value: $100–$200
Part of the soda promotion craze of the ‘70s and ‘80s. Less common than Coke versions, making them rarer.
Bandai Fireball Yo-Yo (Japan)
Estimated value: $80–$150
Bright red and popular in the Hyper Yo-Yo boom. Still loved by retro collectors.
All About The Yomega FireBall Yoyo, Lars / Yoyoplay.com
Duncan Wheels Yo-Yo (1960s)
Estimated value: $150–$300
Features hot rod-inspired wheel decals. One of Duncan’s more playful designs, now sought after for nostalgia.
Duncan Fire Wheels Yoyos Modded with Spinners!, ricerocket00
Spintastics Terminator
Estimated value: $60–$120
A high-performance model from the 2000s, these are still used by some players. Limited runs add value.
Spintastics Technic - Cheap Yo-yo, Quick Review, Throws N' Brews
Russell Fanta Yo-Yo
Estimated value: $100–$200
Another soft drink promo yo-yo, often found in international editions. Look for bright orange versions.
RUSSELL SPINNERS: COKE-A-COLA & FANTA, FLASHBACK 1982, KRAZEEIZATION
Duncan Satellite Yo-Yo (1970s)
Estimated value: $100–$180
Unique shape and funky colors made this a standout in its era. Harder to find today.
Duncan Yo-Yo Satellite 80s Commercial (1988), Rewind Me
Tom Kuhn Black Cat Yo-Yo
Estimated value: $200–$400
A slick, black aluminum yo-yo with smooth spin. Early versions are rare and very collectible.
Bandai Super Spin Gear
Estimated value: $150–$300
A premium Japanese model from the Hyper Yo-Yo craze. Clean examples still demand strong prices.
Duncan Glow Imperial (1990s, Mint in Package)
Estimated value: $50–$300
The Duncan Glow Imperial is like no other. It glowed in the dark and lit up bedrooms everywhere. If it's still sealed, collectors love it.
Duncan Imperial Yo-Yo 1986 and Duncan Glow Imperial Rice Krispies yoyo 1989, Zuntic
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