Mia Warner The 1998 Furby stands as one of the most iconic toys of the late 90s, captivating children and adults alike with its interactive features and adorable appearance. These electronic pets that could “learn” English, respond to touch, and communicate with each other have now transformed from simple playthings into valuable collectibles. Whether you’ve discovered an old Furby in your attic or are considering adding one to your collection, understanding its current market value is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what determines a 1998 Furby’s worth in today’s collector market, provide current price ranges based on condition and rarity, and offer expert tips for identifying authentic models and maximizing their value when selling. Let’s uncover just how much that fuzzy electronic friend might be worth in 2023.
The 1998 Furby Phenomenon: A Brief History
When Tiger Electronics released the first Furby in October 1998, few could have predicted the cultural sensation it would become. Within months, these interactive toys flew off shelves, with over 1.8 million units sold by the end of 1998 and 14 million by the end of 1999. The original retail price of $35 seems modest compared to what some rare specimens command today.
What made the 1998 Furby special was its groundbreaking technology. Each Furby came programmed to speak “Furbish” but would gradually “learn” English phrases through interaction. With sensors responding to light, touch, sound, and even the presence of other Furbies, these toys created an unprecedented interactive experience that captivated a generation.
The original 1998 Furbies were released in multiple generations throughout the year, with each wave introducing new colors and patterns. This variety has created a rich collecting landscape where some variants are significantly more valuable than others.
Key Factors Affecting Your 1998 Furby’s Value
Not all vintage Furbies are created equal when it comes to collector value. Several critical factors determine how much your 1998 Furby might be worth in today’s market:
Condition: The Primary Value Driver
The physical condition of your Furby significantly impacts its value. Collectors categorize condition in several tiers:
- New In Box (NIB): Unopened in original packaging, can command 3-5 times the value of a used Furby
- Mint: Opened but pristine condition with original packaging and paperwork
- Excellent: Minimal wear, fully functional with clean fur and working electronics
- Good: Shows some signs of play but functions properly
- Fair: Visible wear, may have minor functionality issues
- Poor: Significant wear or non-functioning, primarily valuable for parts
Rarity and Special Editions
The 1998 Furby line included multiple generations with varying levels of rarity:
| Generation | Notable Variants | Rarity Level |
| Generation 1 | Tuxedo, Witch’s Cat, Snowball | Common |
| Generation 2 | Giraffe, Owl, Tiger, Bear | Common |
| Generation 3 | Elephant, Gorilla, Lamb | Uncommon |
| Generation 4 | Tie-Dye, Dragon, Ladybug | Uncommon |
| Generation 5 | Kiwi, Koala, Lizard | Rare |
| Generation 6 | Alligator, Color Change, Husky | Very Rare |
| Generation 7 | Red Wolf, Banana Peel, Mink | Extremely Rare |
Functionality
A working Furby is substantially more valuable than a non-functioning one. Common issues that affect value include:
- Non-responsive sensors
- Motor problems (can’t move eyes or mouth)
- Speaker issues (no sound)
- Battery compartment corrosion
- MSA (Me Sleep Again) glitch
- Damaged circuit board
Original Accessories
Having the complete package significantly increases value:
- Original box (adds 30-50% to value)
- Instruction manual
- Original hang tags
- Adoption certificate
- Original packaging inserts
Get Your Free 1998 Furby Value Checklist
Not sure what your Furby is worth? Our detailed checklist helps you identify your Furby’s generation, assess its condition, and estimate its value range. Perfect for collectors and sellers!
Current Price Ranges for 1998 Furbies
The market for original 1998 Furbies has seen significant fluctuations over the years. Based on recent sales data from eBay, collector forums, and specialty toy marketplaces, here’s what you can expect your 1998 Furby to be worth in today’s market:
Standard 1998 Furby Models (Common Variants)
| Condition | Without Box | With Original Box | New In Box |
| Poor (Non-working) | $10-25 | $20-40 | N/A |
| Fair | $25-50 | $40-75 | N/A |
| Good | $50-80 | $75-120 | N/A |
| Excellent | $80-150 | $120-200 | $200-350 |
| Mint | $150-250 | $200-300 | $300-500 |
Rare and Special Limited Edition 1998 Furbies
| Special Edition/Rare Variant | Excellent Condition | Mint with Box |
| Generation 5 (Kiwi, Koala, etc.) | $150-250 | $300-450 |
| Generation 6 (Alligator, Husky, etc.) | $200-350 | $400-600 |
| Generation 7 (Red Wolf, Mink, etc.) | $250-450 | $500-800 |
| Wizard Furby | $150-300 | $300-500 |
| Royal/King Furby | $150-250 | $250-450 |
| President Furby | $200-300 | $300-500 |
| Angel Furby | $300-500 | $500-800 |
| Hi-C Promotional Furby | $200-400 | $400-700 |
| Kid Cuisine Furby | $500-1,500 | $1,500-2,500 |
The rarest 1998 Furby variant, the Rainbow Furby, has only three known examples in existence. One reportedly sold on eBay for an undisclosed amount, making it potentially the most valuable standard Furby ever sold.
Local vs. Online Valuations
Where you sell your 1998 Furby can significantly impact the price you’ll receive:
Online Marketplaces
- eBay: Typically fetches 80-100% of collector value
- Etsy: Specialty collector market, 90-110% of value
- Facebook Marketplace: Usually 60-80% of collector value
Local Options
- Vintage toy stores: Offer 40-60% of retail value
- Collector conventions: Can reach 80-100% of value
- Pawn shops: Typically only 20-30% of collector value
Maximize Your Furby’s Value
Our comprehensive guide includes detailed cleaning instructions, photography tips, and platform-specific selling strategies to help you get top dollar for your 1998 Furby.
How to Identify an Authentic 1998 Furby
With the rising value of original Furbies, counterfeits and reproductions have begun appearing in the market. Here’s how to ensure your 1998 Furby is authentic:
Physical Characteristics
- Size: Original 1998 Furbies measure approximately 6 inches tall
- Weight: Authentic models have a substantial feel due to the motor and electronics
- Fur quality: Original fur has a distinctive texture and density
- Plastic components: Should have “Tiger Electronics” and date stamps
Manufacturing Details
- Factory codes: Look for two-letter factory codes (WT, GE, RL, JT) on the tag or battery case
- Model number: Authentic 1998 models have “70-800” printed on them
- Copyright information: Should read “© Tiger Electronics 1998”
- Battery compartment: Original models take 4 AA batteries and have specific screw patterns
Spotting Reproduction Parts
Some sellers may combine original and reproduction parts. Watch for these telltale signs:
- Fur texture: Reproductions often use lower-quality synthetic fur
- Eye color/pattern: Original Furbies have specific eye patterns for each variant
- Foot pads: Authentic models have specific textures and markings
- Circuit board: Original boards have specific component layouts and quality
Best Practices for Selling Your 1998 Furby
Ready to sell your vintage Furby? These tips will help you maximize its value and find the right buyer:
Cleaning and Preparation
- Fur cleaning: Gently spot clean with mild soap and water, avoid soaking
- Battery compartment: Clean any corrosion with white vinegar and a cotton swab
- Mechanics: Use compressed air to remove dust from moving parts
- Testing: Install fresh batteries and document all functions working
Important: Never submerge your Furby in water or use harsh chemicals for cleaning. This can damage the electronics and significantly reduce value.
Photography Tips
Quality photos can increase your selling price by 15-30%:
- Use natural lighting or a lightbox for clear, detailed images
- Capture multiple angles (front, back, sides, bottom)
- Include close-ups of any special features or markings
- Show the Furby both with eyes open and closed
- If functional, consider a short video demonstration
- Include photos of any accessories, box, or paperwork
Where to Sell Your 1998 Furby
| Platform | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| eBay | Largest audience, auction format can drive up prices | High fees (10-15%), shipping logistics | Rare variants, special editions |
| Etsy | Collector-focused audience, higher price points | Slower sales, listing fees | Mint condition, boxed items |
| Facebook Marketplace | No fees, local pickup eliminates shipping | Lower prices, safety concerns | Common variants, quick sales |
| Mercari | Easy to use, built-in shipping | 10% fee, smaller collector base | Mid-range value Furbies |
| Collector Forums | Knowledgeable buyers, fair prices | Smaller audience, trust issues | Rare variants, networking |
Creating an Effective Listing
- Title: Include “1998 Furby,” color/pattern name, and condition
- Description: Detail the generation, functionality, and any special features
- Specifications: List factory code, included accessories, and any known history
- Honesty: Disclose any flaws or issues (MSA glitch, worn fur, etc.)
- Pricing: Research comparable sales before setting your price
Complete 1998 Furby Value Guide
Get our comprehensive guide with generation-specific price charts, authentication tips, and expert selling strategies. Perfect for collectors and sellers looking to maximize their Furby’s value.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1998 Furby Values
Do Furbies appreciate in value over time?
Yes, original 1998 Furbies have generally appreciated in value, particularly rare variants and special editions. Since 2018, we’ve seen an average annual increase of 8-12% for mint condition specimens. However, common variants in poor condition have remained relatively stable in price. The most significant appreciation has been for sealed, new-in-box examples, which have more than doubled in value over the past five years.
How can I tell which generation my 1998 Furby belongs to?
The generation can be identified primarily by the Furby’s fur pattern and coloration. Each generation had specific variants released. You can also check the manufacturing date on the battery compartment – earlier dates typically indicate earlier generations. For precise identification, consult collector guides with detailed color charts or join online Furby collector communities where experts can help identify your specific model.
What are the most valuable 1998 Furby variants?
The most valuable standard 1998 Furbies are the Kid Cuisine promotional Furby (approximately
Frequently Asked Questions About 1998 Furby Values
Do Furbies appreciate in value over time?
Yes, original 1998 Furbies have generally appreciated in value, particularly rare variants and special editions. Since 2018, we’ve seen an average annual increase of 8-12% for mint condition specimens. However, common variants in poor condition have remained relatively stable in price. The most significant appreciation has been for sealed, new-in-box examples, which have more than doubled in value over the past five years.
How can I tell which generation my 1998 Furby belongs to?
The generation can be identified primarily by the Furby’s fur pattern and coloration. Each generation had specific variants released. You can also check the manufacturing date on the battery compartment – earlier dates typically indicate earlier generations. For precise identification, consult collector guides with detailed color charts or join online Furby collector communities where experts can help identify your specific model.
What are the most valuable 1998 Furby variants?
The most valuable standard 1998 Furbies are the Kid Cuisine promotional Furby (approximately $1,500-2,500 in mint condition), the Hi-C promotional Furby ($400-700), and Generation 7 variants like the Red Wolf and Mink ($500-800 in mint condition with box). Special limited editions like the Angel Furby can also command premium prices. The absolute rarest is the Rainbow Furby, with only three known to exist, making it essentially priceless to serious collectors.
How can I spot reproduction or fake 1998 Furbies?
Reproductions often have noticeable differences in fur quality, plastic components, and electronic functions. Authentic 1998 Furbies have specific factory codes (WT, GE, RL, JT) on their tags or battery compartments, along with “70-800” model numbers and “© Tiger Electronics 1998” markings. The circuit boards in originals have distinctive layouts and component placements. Be especially wary of sellers offering rare variants at suspiciously low prices or with inconsistent details in their photos.
Does the “Me Sleep Again” (MSA) glitch affect my Furby’s value?
Yes, the MSA glitch (where a Furby constantly goes back to sleep after being activated) can reduce value by 20-40% depending on the severity and the Furby’s rarity. While some collectors consider this a normal part of aging electronics, others view it as a functional defect. The glitch is more common in JT factory Furbies but can occur in any model. Some buyers specifically seek out non-MSA Furbies and will pay a premium for fully functional examples.
Is it worth repairing a damaged 1998 Furby?
For common variants, repairs typically aren’t cost-effective unless you can do them yourself. Professional restoration can cost $50-100, which often exceeds the value increase. However, for rare variants or special editions, professional restoration can be worthwhile, potentially increasing value by $100-300 depending on the model. If attempting repairs yourself, be extremely cautious – improper repairs can further decrease value, especially if original parts are replaced with non-authentic components.
,500-2,500 in mint condition), the Hi-C promotional Furby (0-700), and Generation 7 variants like the Red Wolf and Mink (0-800 in mint condition with box). Special limited editions like the Angel Furby can also command premium prices. The absolute rarest is the Rainbow Furby, with only three known to exist, making it essentially priceless to serious collectors.
How can I spot reproduction or fake 1998 Furbies?
Reproductions often have noticeable differences in fur quality, plastic components, and electronic functions. Authentic 1998 Furbies have specific factory codes (WT, GE, RL, JT) on their tags or battery compartments, along with “70-800” model numbers and “© Tiger Electronics 1998” markings. The circuit boards in originals have distinctive layouts and component placements. Be especially wary of sellers offering rare variants at suspiciously low prices or with inconsistent details in their photos.
Does the “Me Sleep Again” (MSA) glitch affect my Furby’s value?
Yes, the MSA glitch (where a Furby constantly goes back to sleep after being activated) can reduce value by 20-40% depending on the severity and the Furby’s rarity. While some collectors consider this a normal part of aging electronics, others view it as a functional defect. The glitch is more common in JT factory Furbies but can occur in any model. Some buyers specifically seek out non-MSA Furbies and will pay a premium for fully functional examples.
Is it worth repairing a damaged 1998 Furby?
For common variants, repairs typically aren’t cost-effective unless you can do them yourself. Professional restoration can cost -100, which often exceeds the value increase. However, for rare variants or special editions, professional restoration can be worthwhile, potentially increasing value by 0-300 depending on the model. If attempting repairs yourself, be extremely cautious – improper repairs can further decrease value, especially if original parts are replaced with non-authentic components.
Final Thoughts: The Future of 1998 Furby Collecting
The market for original 1998 Furbies continues to evolve as these iconic toys approach their 25th anniversary. While common variants remain accessible to casual collectors, the rarest specimens have firmly established themselves as serious collectibles with significant monetary value.
As with any collectible market, condition remains paramount. A mint, new-in-box 1998 Furby will almost always command a premium over used examples, regardless of variant. For those looking to invest in Furbies as collectibles, focusing on special editions and rare variants in the best possible condition offers the greatest potential for appreciation.
Whether you’re looking to sell a childhood toy or add to your collection, understanding the factors that influence a 1998 Furby’s worth will help you make informed decisions. With proper care, documentation, and patience in finding the right buyer, your vintage Furby could be worth significantly more than you might expect.
The enduring appeal of the original 1998 Furby lies not just in nostalgia, but in its place as a pioneering interactive toy that changed the landscape of electronic playthings forever. For collectors, this historical significance adds a value beyond mere dollars and cents.
Quick Navigation
- The 1998 Furby Phenomenon: A Brief History
- Key Factors Affecting Your 1998 Furby’s Value
- Current Price Ranges for 1998 Furbies
- How to Identify an Authentic 1998 Furby
- Best Practices for Selling Your 1998 Furby
- Frequently Asked Questions About 1998 Furby Values
- Frequently Asked Questions About 1998 Furby Values
- Final Thoughts: The Future of 1998 Furby Collecting
