A six-figure price tag. A toy bear. A work of art. These are the most expensive designer toy collectibles in the world.
In the rarefied world of designer toys, what once began as a subcultural movement of urban vinyl has since matured into an elite collectible category. Limited-edition items command gallery-level respect and price tags to match. From KAWS’ pop-infused Companions to Bearbricks dressed in Dior, we explore the most expensive designer toys ever released.
The Most Expensive Designer Toy Collectibles in the World
KAWS: From Graffiti Legend to Auction House Darling
Brian Donnelly, better known as KAWS, has become a well-known force in contemporary collectible art. His companion figure, a cartoon hybrid with X-ed out eyes is instantly recognisable and highly coveted. While early releases were modest in price, today, owning one of KAWS’ rarer pieces requires serious capital.
4-Foot Companion (Seated, 2011)
Originally priced in the low thousands, this vinyl figure sold for $400,000 at auction in 2017.
KAWS Darth Vader Companion (2007)
A limited-edition twist on the Star Wars villain, reimagined with KAWS skull-faced styling. Initially retailing for under $100, this cult favourite now resells for around $26,000.
Pinocchio & Jiminy Cricket (2010)
A Disney collaboration that transformed Pinocchio into a KAWS Companion, complete with gloved X-eyes and exaggerated proportions. With only 500 sets made, resale prices now reach upwards of $8,000.
KAWS x Dior BFF Plush (2019)
This pink plush figure, dressed in a custom Dior suit, was priced at $7,500 at retail – and sold out immediately. With only 500 in existence, it continues to rise in value.
To shop KAWS products, check out the Artsy website here.
Bearbrick: The Cult of the Cube Bear
Created by Japanese toy powerhouse Medicom, the Bearbrick figure is deceptively simple in form – a blocky bear silhouette with articulated limbs. Produced in sizes ranging from 100% (7cm) to 1000% (70cm), Bearbricks have become sought-after trophies among collectors, artists, and fashion insiders alike.
Yue Minjun ‘Qui Tu’ 1000% Bearbrick (2008)
A one-off creation by Chinese contemporary artist Yue Minjun, this striking Bearbrick features his signature laughing self-portrait in monochrome. Sold at auction for around $149,000, it remains the most expensive Bearbrick on record.
Coco Chanel Bearbrick 1000% (2007)
Designed by Karl Lagerfeld in tribute to Coco Chanel, this Bearbrick – complete with pearls and sunglasses – was created for a charity auction. It’s estimated value is now around $75,000.
The Black Sense Market Stainless Steel Bearbrick (2009)
Weighing in at 14kg, this 1000% Bearbrick is forged from polished stainless steel and retailed for £34,000 (approximately $58,000).
Readymade x A Bathing Ape 1000% Bearbrick (2018)
Fusing Japanese military-inspired fashion with streetwear iconography, this Bearbrick is dressed in a miniature BAPE shark hoodie, and now resells for as much as $20,000.
KAWS Dissected Bearbrick 1000% (2008-2010)
A merger between two well-known brands, the KAWS anatomical Dissected Companion rendered in Bearbrick form. Available in limited runs and originally priced under $300, it now trades for $8,000-$12,000, depending on the colour-way.
To shop Bearbrick products, check out the Artsy website here.
Beyond the Big Names: Other High-Value Art Toys
Kidrobot’s Dunnys – Warhol Editions & Gold King
Kidrobot’s rabbit-eared Dunny figure has long been a subtle favourite among artists. The Andy Warhol series (with only five of each design), now retail for thousands. The metallic Gold King Dunny by Tristan Eaton, has reached $2,000+ on the resale market.
To shop Kidrobot’s Dunny products, check out the Kidrobot website here.
Michael Lau’ Gardener Figures
Often referred to as the ‘Godfather of Designer Toys,’ Michael Lau’s early Gardener figures; especially the full 109-piece anniversary set, are extremely valued. Valuations of select figures have reached into five-digit territory, through many trade in private collector circles.
To shop Michael Lau’s products, check out the Vintage Objects website here.
Takashi Murakami & Hajime Sorayama Collaborations
Both world-renowned Japanese artists have made their mark in the toy world. Murakami’s flower characters and Sorayama’s chrome robot figures have been translated into collectible formats, often in small runs. Retailing in the hundreds, some now resell for several thousands.
To shop the products, check out the StockX website here.
[Hero Image Credit: Artsy; Featured Image Credit: StockX]
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.