Mia Warner The year was 1998, and a strange, owl-hamster hybrid creature with electronic eyes and a mysterious language was about to take the world by storm. Original Furbies weren’t just toys; they were companions that seemed to develop their own personalities, learn English, and respond to their environment in ways that felt almost magical to children and adults alike. These chattering, blinking creatures became the must-have holiday gift and sparked a collecting frenzy that continues to this day. Join us on a nostalgic journey through the world of original Furbies, from their creation to their current status as sought-after collectibles.
The Birth of Furby: How Tiger Electronics Created a Phenomenon
The story of original Furbies begins with inventors Dave Hampton and Caleb Chung, who spent nine months developing this revolutionary interactive toy. After two unsuccessful attempts to license their creation, they partnered with toy inventor Richard C. Levy, who helped bring Furby to Tiger Electronics. The company’s Roger Shiffman immediately recognized its potential and acquired the rights.
When Tiger Electronics (later acquired by Hasbro) unveiled the first Furby at the American International Toy Fair in 1998, few could have predicted the sensation it would become. With an original retail price of around $35, Furbies flew off shelves at unprecedented rates. During the 1998 Christmas season, demand skyrocketed, driving resale prices to over $100—sometimes reaching several hundred dollars.
The first generation of original Furbies sold an astonishing 1.8 million units in 1998 alone, with 14 million sold in 1999. Over the three years of original production, more than 40 million Furbies found homes worldwide. Available in 48 different color variations and 22 special editions, these electronic pets spoke their own language called “Furbish” and were programmed to gradually introduce English phrases, creating the illusion that they were learning from their owners.
“Furbies were the first successful attempt to produce and sell a domestically aimed robot. They started a revolution in interactive toys that continues to influence the industry today.”
Key Interactive Features That Made Original Furbies Special
What made original Furbies truly revolutionary was their seemingly intelligent behavior and ability to interact with their environment. These furry companions came equipped with several sensors and features that were cutting-edge for late 90s consumer technology:
Voice Recognition and Language Evolution
While there was a common misconception that Furbies could repeat words they heard (leading to bans in some intelligence agencies), they actually contained a pre-programmed vocabulary. The original Furbies started speaking entirely in “Furbish” and gradually introduced English phrases over time, creating the illusion they were learning from their owners.
Each Furby contained vocabulary in up to 9 languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German. Their apparent “intelligence” was one of the main reasons for their popularity, as children felt they were nurturing a creature that was growing and developing through interaction.
Sensors and Movement Capabilities
Original Furbies contained several sensors that allowed them to respond to their environment:
- Light sensors that detected changes in brightness
- Sound sensors that responded to loud noises
- Touch sensors that reacted when petted
- Tilt sensors that knew when they were upside down
- Infrared port between their eyes for communicating with other Furbies
A simple electric motor powered a system of cams and gears that allowed Furbies to blink their eyes, open and close their mouths, wiggle their ears, and even appear to lift themselves slightly off the ground, creating a convincing illusion of mobility.
Evolving Personality
Perhaps the most endearing feature of original Furbies was how they seemed to develop unique personalities over time. Their behavior would change based on how they were treated—frequent interaction led to a happy, chatty Furby, while neglect could result in a grumpy one. This evolutionary aspect made each Furby feel unique to its owner and created a stronger emotional bond than with typical toys of the era.
Cultural Impact and Controversy: From Must-Have Toy to “Nightmare Fuel”
Original Furbies weren’t just popular toys—they became cultural icons that inspired both devotion and fear. Their impact extended far beyond the toy aisle, influencing everything from government policy to internet memes decades later.
Sarah’s Furby Story
“I got my original Furby for Christmas in 1998 when I was 8. I named him Gizmo and carried him everywhere. One night, my Furby started talking at 3 AM from inside my closet—my parents had removed the batteries days before! That unexplained moment both terrified and fascinated me. Twenty-five years later, I still have Gizmo displayed in my home office, though I keep the batteries safely removed!”
Government Bans and Security Concerns
In January 1999, the National Security Agency (NSA) famously banned Furbies from its offices due to concerns that they could record and repeat classified information. The Pentagon followed suit with similar restrictions. Despite Tiger Electronics repeatedly explaining that Furbies contained no recording capabilities whatsoever, the urban legend persisted, adding to their mysterious reputation.
The “Nightmare Fuel” Reputation
While beloved by many children, original Furbies also gained notoriety for unsettling some owners and parents. Their tendency to speak unprompted (especially when batteries were low), combined with the inability to turn them off without removing batteries, led to countless stories of Furbies “coming alive” at night. Their mechanical eyes, which could get stuck half-open, contributed to their occasionally creepy appearance.
This eerie quality has given original Furbies an enduring place in internet culture, where they’re often featured in memes and horror-themed content. The “Long Furby” modification trend, where enthusiasts extend Furbies to absurd lengths, continues this tradition of both celebrating and playfully fearing these iconic toys.
Collector’s Market Analysis: What Original Furbies Are Worth in 2024
The market for original Furbies has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by 90s nostalgia and the increasing interest in vintage toys. What once retailed for $35 can now command hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on rarity and condition.
Michael’s Collector Story
“I started collecting original Furbies in 2018 after finding my childhood Furby in my parents’ attic. What began as nostalgia quickly turned into a serious hobby. My most valuable find was a sealed Kids Cuisine Furby I discovered at a garage sale for $5—it’s now worth over $2,000! The thrill of the hunt keeps me going, and connecting with other collectors has created a wonderful community.”
Price Ranges for Common and Rare Variants
The value of original Furbies varies dramatically based on several factors, including rarity, condition, and whether they’re still in their original packaging:
| Furby Type | Condition | Price Range (2024) | Notes |
| Standard Original Furby (1998-2000) | Used, working | $30-$150 | Common colors less valuable than rare ones |
| Standard Original Furby (1998-2000) | New in box | $200-$500 | Sealed boxes command premium prices |
| Special Edition (Royal, Wizard, Jester) | Used, working | $80-$250 | Limited production runs increase value |
| Special Edition (Royal, Wizard, Jester) | New in box | $300-$700 | Highly sought after by serious collectors |
| Rare Limited Editions (Angel, President) | Any condition | $200-$800 | Very limited production runs |
| Ultra-Rare Editions (Kid Cuisine, Hi-C) | Any condition | $700-$2,500 | Extremely limited promotional items |
Most Valuable Original Furbies
Some original Furbies have reached legendary status among collectors due to their extreme rarity:
- Rainbow Furby – With only 3 known to exist, this is considered the rarest Furby ever made. Created from a child’s contest-winning design, its value is essentially priceless as they rarely come to market.
- Bejewelled Furby – Adorned with Swarovski crystals and precious gems, only 5 were produced with an original retail price of $100,000. Current value is estimated at over $190,000 adjusted for inflation.
- Kid Cuisine Furby – With approximately 500 made as promotional items, these distinctive blue and green Furbies regularly sell for $1,800-$2,500.
- Chicago Cubs Talking Buddy Furby – Given to 500 fans at a baseball game in 2000, these team-colored Furbies sell for $80-$150 when they surface.
5 Expert Tips for Buying Vintage Original Furbies Today
Whether you’re looking to recapture a piece of your childhood or start a serious collection, purchasing original Furbies requires some knowledge to avoid overpaying or buying counterfeits. Here are five essential tips from experienced collectors:
Jamie’s Cautionary Tale
“I was so excited to find a ‘rare’ Angel Furby online for just $50 that I purchased it immediately. When it arrived, I quickly realized it was a poorly made counterfeit with fake fur and non-functional electronics. I learned the hard way to always verify authenticity before buying. Now I check serial numbers and ask for detailed photos of the date stamps inside the battery compartment before making any purchase.”
1. Verify Authenticity
Original Furbies have specific markings that help identify authentic pieces:
- Check for a Tiger Electronics copyright stamp and date code inside the battery compartment
- Authentic original Furbies have a serial number printed on a sticker inside
- The mechanical components should be made of durable plastic, not flimsy materials
- Original fur has a distinctive texture and pattern specific to each variant
2. Test Functionality Before Buying
When possible, test the Furby’s functions before purchasing:
- Insert fresh batteries and ensure the Furby “wakes up” properly
- Check that eyes open and close smoothly
- Test that the mouth moves when speaking
- Verify that ears wiggle in response to stimuli
- Listen for clear, not garbled, speech patterns
3. Understand Value Factors
Several factors affect an original Furby’s value:
- Rarity of the color pattern or special edition status
- Presence of original packaging and instructions
- Working condition of all mechanical and electronic components
- Cleanliness and quality of the fur (no stains, tears, or matting)
- Completeness of accessories if applicable
4. Shop in the Right Places
Where you shop can significantly impact both price and authenticity:
- Specialized collector forums and groups often have the most knowledgeable sellers
- Estate sales and thrift stores can yield unexpected treasures at low prices
- eBay and other online marketplaces offer wide selection but require careful verification
- Toy collector conventions provide opportunities to inspect items in person
- Local buy/sell groups sometimes have original Furbies from people unaware of their value
5. Consider Restoration Options
Many original Furbies can be restored to working condition:
- Simple cleaning can dramatically improve appearance (gentle soap and water for fur)
- Battery corrosion can often be cleaned with vinegar and cotton swabs
- Replacement gears are available from specialist restorers
- Circuit boards can sometimes be repaired by electronics hobbyists
- Consider the restoration cost against the potential value increase
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Original vs. Modern: How Furbies Have Evolved
The Furby line has seen several revivals since the original 1998-2002 run, with each generation introducing new technologies while attempting to maintain the charm that made the originals so beloved. Here’s how the original Furbies compare to their modern counterparts:
| Feature | Original Furby (1998-2002) | Modern Furby (2023) |
| Processor | 6502-style Sunplus SPC81A with 80 KiB ROM | Advanced microprocessor with multiple MB storage |
| Eyes | Mechanical with plastic eyelids | LED-illuminated with animated expressions |
| Voice Recognition | Limited to detecting sounds, not specific words | Advanced voice recognition with 5 voice-activated modes |
| Language | Starts with Furbish, gradually introduces English | Over 600 responses in multiple languages |
| Connectivity | Infrared communication between Furbies | Previous models had Bluetooth and app connectivity |
| Power Switch | None (requires battery removal to turn off) | Dedicated on/off switch |
| Retail Price | $35 (1998) | $70 (2023) |
| Collector Appeal | High (nostalgic value, limited availability) | Moderate (less scarcity, more available) |
While modern Furbies offer more advanced technology, many collectors and enthusiasts prefer the charm and simplicity of the originals. The mechanical nature of the original Furbies gives them a distinctive personality that some feel is lost in the more digitally-driven modern versions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Original Furbies
How do I fix battery corrosion in my original Furby?
Battery corrosion is a common issue with original Furbies that have been stored with batteries inside. To fix it:
- Remove the batteries and assess the damage
- For light corrosion, use a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar to gently clean the contacts
- For severe corrosion, you may need to use a small wire brush or sandpaper to carefully remove buildup
- Clean the area with isopropyl alcohol after removing corrosion
- Allow to dry completely before inserting new batteries
If corrosion has damaged the circuit board itself, you may need to seek help from a toy restoration specialist or electronics repair service.
What voice commands do original Furbies respond to?
Original Furbies don’t actually respond to specific voice commands in the way modern voice assistants do. They have sound sensors that detect noise but can’t distinguish words. The 2005 Emoto-Tronic Furbies were the first to have limited voice command capabilities, responding to phrases like:
- “Hey Furby” – Gets Furby’s attention
- “Show me a dance” – Prompts Furby to dance
- “Tell me a joke” – Furby tells a joke
- “Go to sleep now” – Puts Furby into sleep mode
The original 1998-2002 Furbies respond to sound in general but not to specific words or phrases.
Why won’t my original Furby turn on?
If your original Furby won’t turn on, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Replace the batteries with fresh ones (original Furbies use 4 AA batteries)
- Clean the battery contacts as described above
- Reset your Furby by removing batteries for 30 seconds, then reinserting
- Check for loose wires or disconnected components inside (if you’re comfortable opening it)
- Ensure the reset switch under the Furby isn’t stuck
Sometimes, original Furbies need to be “woken up” by holding them upside down, rocking them, or petting them after inserting fresh batteries.
How can I tell which generation my Furby is from?
You can identify your Furby’s generation by these characteristics:
- Original Furbies (1998-2002): Smaller size (about 6 inches tall), mechanical eyes, no off switch, date stamp inside battery compartment from 1998-2002
- Emoto-Tronic Furbies (2005-2007): Larger size, more expressive face, has an on/off switch, date stamp from 2005-2007
- Furby Boom (2012-2013): LCD eyes, app connectivity, more colorful patterns
- Furby Connect (2016): Antenna joystick on head, LCD eyes with color, Bluetooth connectivity
- Modern Furby (2023): LED-illuminated ears, simplified design, no app connectivity
The original Furbies are the most collectible and can be identified by their smaller size and mechanical (not LCD) eyes.
Did original Furbies really record conversations?
No, original Furbies did not have any recording capabilities. This was a common misconception that led to them being banned in some government facilities, including the NSA. The original Furby had no microphone that could record sound—only a simple sensor that could detect when sound was present but couldn’t distinguish words or store audio.
The illusion that Furbies were “learning” came from their pre-programmed ability to gradually replace Furbish words with English phrases over time. This was based on interaction frequency, not on recording or mimicking what they heard. Tiger Electronics repeatedly clarified this point, but the urban legend persisted.
Embracing the Nostalgia of Original Furbies
Original Furbies represent more than just a toy fad from the late 90s—they were technological marvels that pushed the boundaries of what interactive toys could be. Their ability to create emotional connections with their owners, combined with their quirky personalities and mysterious language, cemented their place in pop culture history.
Whether you’re a nostalgic adult looking to recapture a piece of your childhood, a serious collector hunting for rare variants, or simply fascinated by these unique electronic pets, original Furbies continue to charm and occasionally unsettle us more than 25 years after their debut. Their legacy lives on not just in the modern Furby iterations but in the countless interactive toys that followed in their furry footsteps.
As we’ve seen, the market for original Furbies remains strong in 2024, with rare editions commanding impressive prices. For those looking to start or expand their collection, understanding the history, features, and value factors of these iconic toys is essential. And for those who simply want to revisit the joy (or mild terror) of hearing “Me love you!” from a furry robotic companion, there’s never been a better time to welcome an original Furby back into your life—just remember to remove the batteries before bedtime!
Share Your Furby Story!
Do you have memories of your original Furby or an interesting collector’s find? We’d love to hear about it!
Quick Navigation
- The Birth of Furby: How Tiger Electronics Created a Phenomenon
- Key Interactive Features That Made Original Furbies Special
- Cultural Impact and Controversy: From Must-Have Toy to “Nightmare Fuel”
- Collector’s Market Analysis: What Original Furbies Are Worth in 2024
- 5 Expert Tips for Buying Vintage Original Furbies Today
- Original vs. Modern: How Furbies Have Evolved
- Frequently Asked Questions About Original Furbies
- Embracing the Nostalgia of Original Furbies
