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15 Disney VHS Tapes That Are Worth a Small Fortune

You could make some good money if you have a copy of “Pete’s Dragon” lying around.

Close-up of several vintage VHS tapes stacked near remote control on wooden table with an old TV
Updated Dec. 31, 2024
Fact checked

Have a couple of boxes of old VHS tapes lying around? They could be your secret to putting some extra cash in your wallet.

From 1980 to the early 2000s, Disney released VHS tapes so that people could enjoy its catalog of movies from home. Many of these tapes brought whimsy and art to homes worldwide, and several are worth looking for if you’re hoping to make some quick cash.

Some of these vintage classics are now worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to collectors. The most expensive include misprinted or rare releases or tapes with noticeable or iconic branding.

While rare, you can earn extra money by sourcing and selling these 15 vintage Disney VHS finds.

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"The Black Diamond Collection" (Various Titles)

Aletheia Shade/Adobe messy stack of vhs tapes

These early Disney VHS releases — there are 20 — are marked with a black diamond on the spine. Inside the diamond, the term “The Classics” is coupled with the Walt Disney logo. These releases are highly sought after, particularly for titles like “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Cinderella,” which were released between 1984 and 1994.

"Beauty and the Beast" (1992 Black Diamond Edition)

redfox331/Adobe beauty and the beast set

Often cited as one of the most valuable tapes, this version's rarity and cultural significance make it a collector’s favorite. You can make some decent money if the tape and clamshell are in good condition.

Look for the phrase “A Walt Disney Classic” above the movie title on the tape. This phrase often attracts more money from fans. Several are listed for thousands of dollars online, including one in “like new” condition that is up for $70,000.

"The Little Mermaid" (Black Diamond Edition with Banned Cover Art)

hamara/Adobe the little mermaid movie

This infamous VHS features cover art with a controversial design that was later altered, making original copies incredibly collectible. Many made their way into circulation, but they are still considered more rare than others.

Several are currently listed online for around $9,000; well-used ones can still fetch as much as $250.

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"Aladdin" (Black Diamond Edition)

fergregory/Adobe magic aladdin genie lamp

On Sept. 29, 1993, Disney released Aladdin, another prized tape from the Black Diamond series. This particular tape can be worth a pretty penny, especially in mint condition or unopened packaging. There are several listed between $35,000 and $50,000 on eBay.

"101 Dalmatians" (Limited Gold Collection)

CallallooFred/Adobe dalmatian puppy

Part of a limited-release series, these tapes can fetch high prices when in pristine condition. The current going rate if you have one with a black diamond on its spine is $9,999.

“Song of the South” (1946)

Joni/Adobe water ride splash mountain

One of Disney’s earlier releases, “Song of the South” — which was turned into the now-replaced Splash Mountain ride — is considered racially insensitive. Because of some glaring issues with the film, Disney wiped it from production and availability. Copies of it are rare, as they were taken out of circulation in 1986.

The most expensive pre-owned option is currently up for $2,000.

“Tron”

AmeriCantaro/Adobe tron motorbike light runner

Disney used to push dozens of home video releases to the market via formats like LaserDisc, Betamax, and VHS. This 1982 live-action cult hit had a VHS run the following year, and you can make some money off any copies you have.

They have gone for over $1,600, though a used copy is currently listed on eBay for $109.99.

“The Fox And The Hound” (Black Diamond)

Shane Cotee/Adobe dog staring out

The Walt Disney classic “The Fox And The Hound” is a tale about two friends who overcome differences to become friends. It was released in 1994.

Many copies of this VHS sell for less than $15, but some are considered rare, like this Black Diamond release, and can fetch upwards of $7,500.

“Pinocchio” (Black Diamond)

PPJ/Adobe pinocchio

“Pinocchio” was originally a cartoon in a children’s publication in 1881, but Italian author Carlo Collidi later adapted it into a novel.

Disney’s version was officially released to the public in 1993. A brand-new, unopened copy is available online for $10,000.

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“Dumbo” (Black Diamond

Acento Creativo/Adobe dumbo the flying elephant

In 1941, “Dumbo” was released by Walt Disney Studios to critical acclaim. Its colorful visuals and intricate storyline stunned audiences.

In today's market, the Black Diamond version of this VHS tape, in near-perfect condition, can earn the seller around $20,000.

“Robin Hood” (Black Diamond)

Wirestock/Adobe disney's robin hood in lego

The Walt Disney classic “Robin Hood” was released in theatres in 1973. The versions later released on VHS in 1984 and 1991 could earn you substantial cash. If you can believe it, one in “like new” condition is up for $10,000.

”Peter Pan” (Black Diamond)

Blue/Adobe peter pan vinyl

The story of Peter Pan reached a wider audience in February 1953 with the theatrical release of the Disney cartoon version. A Black Diamond first edition of this release is listed on eBay for $8,000.

“Pete’s Dragon” (Masterpiece Collection)

graja/Adobe outdated vhs tape

In 1998, “Pete’s Dragon” was released from the Walt Disney vault in a run as part of the official Masterpiece Collection. A copy in good condition can go for around $1,000 for this important story about friendship.

“Bambi” (55th Anniversary)

sashapritchard/Adobe bambi cartoon

The movie “Bambi” experienced several releases. It also had multiple versions of its cover; some are less common than others.

The 55th anniversary edition of this cute coming-of-age film about a deer and his friends is going for $2,250 currently on eBay.

“Cinderella” (Black Diamond)

russell102/Adobe cinderella castle with 50th medallion

A Black Diamond release that has experienced pricing volatility in the market —- its value has changed incredibly multiple times — is 1950’s “Cinderella.” This could be because she is the original Disney princess.

Multiple copies are currently listed for $25,000, with one in “like new” condition for $50,000.

Bottom line

Ламина Акулова/Adobe vintage vhs cassettes

If you have any of these VHS tapes in your orbit, you might consider listing them in a few places online to make extra money on the side. To extend the life of your copy, never store VHS media in hot temperatures or near a magnetic source.

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