Popular with the young and old alike, toy soldiers instil a sense of joy, adventure and marvel amongst fans and admirers. Standing usually between 45 and 75mm tall, toy soldiers might be small in height but they are big in popularity and can also make you substantial sums of money at auction. Looking to bring your toy soldiers back to life? It’s easy to sell your collection here at Catawiki. Let’s discover how much money you could make and look at what you need to think about before selling your soldiers.
Nazaire Beeusaert Figures
Highest Priced Toy Soldiers at Catawiki
Our experts have curated some excellent finds within the weekly Toys and Boardgames auction. Below are some of the most expensive fighting figurines to have ever sold on our platform. Check it out!
5. 131 Egyptian Tin Soldiers - €190
The original miniature tin armies on the market were two-dimensional figures which are now referred to as ‘flats’. These flats of Egyptian warriors came from Germany, where this style of toy soldier originated in the 1700s. This is a fairly unique set of which a beautiful ancient Egyptian diorama can be made.
4. Figures from Napoleonic Age - €200
One of the world’s greatest military leaders, Napoleon, revolutionised military tactics and training during the early 19th century. Here, made over 200 years later, ‘the most beautiful victories of Napoleon’ are depicted in incredible miniature form. All 43 pieces are handmade and went to a happy buyer for a good price of €200.
3. WWII German Wehrmacht Infantry with Fahnentrager - €211
Certainly a fascinating lot - this 20 piece marching infantry of German Wehrmacht soldiers was made over 80 years ago when the world was at war. Standing 7cm tall, these military men were made by Elastolin, a German company who manufactured many toy soldiers and other types of figurines. This collection is a solemn but captivating reminder of history.
2. Soldiers / Cavalists / Napoleonist Hussars - €270
This metal collection has everything you would ever need to build a bloody battle scene. Including very visceral imagery and extensive detailing, this edition of soldiers portray the wars during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte. Let your imagination run wild and let the battle commence!
1. WWII Soldiers and Vehicles - €340
History in your home, in toy soldier form! That’s exactly what this collection is. Featuring British and German men, vehicles, artillery and weapons all straight from the front line of WWII, these small, but mighty figurines certainly pack a punch. Everything is hand painted and extremely collectable. At €340, this lot stands as the most expensive toy soldier set to have sold at our auctions.
How to Value Your Toy Soldiers Before Selling at Auction
Finding out the value of your toy soldiers doesn’t have to be a battle. Use our guide to assess your toys and get an idea of what they might be worth.
Who Made It?
Check the base of your figures. Sometimes it is possible to see a manufacturer’s name inscribed. Look out for brand names such as Britains, Timpo and John Hill and Co as these are often of interest at auction.
Rank and Uniform
Are the military men from the American Civil War, the Colonial Wars or World War I? Remember, collectors often try to get a complete ‘set’ from a period. Your pieces could be the key to their completion!
Condition
Have the soldiers been kept in the box? Displayed on a shelf? Or used for playing? The condition of your model soldiers can impact their value.
Cowboys and Soldiers Lot
Think you have a collection which could be even more valuable than those on our list? Time to take action! You can register as a seller here to sell you soldiers online. It's free and easy to submit your items for auction.
If you’re in the business of building and buying battle scenes, explore the soldiers and sets of offer at our weekly Toys and Boardgames auction.