This year, the Walt Disney Company turns 100. Walt Disney himself had been animating prior to this company -- in 1920 he started with the Kansas City Film Company. In 1922, Disney and Ub Iwerks founded the Laugh-O-Gram Film Studio and then on October 16, 1923, the Walt Disney Company was formed.
During this time, the group would make a series of successful shorts known as the Alice Comedies, which blended live-action and animation. Characters such as Oswald the Lucky Rabbit and Mickey Mouse wouldn't be created for a few more years -- but Disney was on his way to becoming the global pop culture icon he is today.
I bought a handful of 100 Years merchandise at Disney Springs in December of 2022, right at the tail end of the Walt Disney World Resort's 50th Anniversary celebration. While I only picked up a pin and a plush Donald Duck, there are loads more collectibles and limited-edition items out now.
2023 Weiss Schwarz Disney Cards
If you follow the trading card game world, you'll know that some Weiss Schwarz cards go for serious money. Currently, the rare Steamboat Willie card has been selling for over $10K ungraded, with many other ungraded cards going for a few hundred respectively. Weiss Schwarz is a Japanese card series and is very collectible, so if you're looking to potentially triple your investment, or find some unique pieces for your collection, this is it.
Mickey and Minni Platinum Drip Ears
Late last year, Disney collectors were divided on the limited edition Mickey and Minni Platinum Drip ears -- but not because of how they look. But rather, because of the marketing behind them. Imagine a Disney press release stating that Minnie was dripping with excitement, then look at these ears. All that aside, these ears have become hot collector's items.
Mickey and Minnie Ears have always had a dedicated fanbase, but this design has sold between $500 - $999 on eBay within the last 3 months. That price is a far cry from the original selling price of $175.
Disney 100 Pins
Disney pins are a unique collectible that had a strong following for a while. Pin trading was a big thing within the Disney Parks for some time, but has since waned in some years. Pins are still an inexpensive and easy buy and have the potential to be worth more in the future. With Disney 100 merchandise being a limited run, this could be an easy thing to invest in, or an inexpensive collectible.
Disney 100 Popcorn Buckets
Disney popcorn buckets are a niche collectible, but one we've covered before! Right now, the Disney Parks are going full steamboat ahead with some amazing popcorn buckets that can only be found in the parks. Right now you can find Mickey in his 100th suit, a platinum Mickey balloon, Cinderella's carriage, and even a platinum and purple poison apple cup!
If you're like me and can't get to a park in the near future, these are absolutely delectable. Right now these can be found as group lots for under $150 on eBay, but within 2-5 years these will become harder to find. If you're a collector like me, now is the time to buy.
Of course, there are loads of other Disney 100 merchandise just waiting for the right buyer. Pandora charms, shoes, spirit jerseys, and more are all getting the Disney 100 treatment! Over the year there will be a ton more merchandise and collectibles coming your way.
What are you looking forward to?
