Top 11+ Old Movie Tapes That Are Worth Checking Your Attic For
- 1. The Little Mermaid (Original VHS, 1990)
- 2. Beauty and the Beast (Black Diamond VHS, 1992)
- 3. Star Wars (Original Trilogy VHS, 1995)
- 4. The Godfather Trilogy (VHS, 1992)
- 5. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (VHS, 1988)
- 6. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Black Diamond VHS, 1994)
- 7. Titanic (VHS, 1997)
- 8. The Lion King (Black Diamond VHS, 1995)
- 9. The Terminator (VHS, 1985)
- 10. Aladdin (Black Diamond VHS, 1993)
1. The Little Mermaid (Original VHS, 1990)

The original VHS release of the Disney classic “The Little Mermaid” can fetch a tidy sum. This is primarily due to a controversial cover art that was later changed in subsequent releases. It’s not unusual to find these tapes listed for hundreds, even thousands of dollars on online auction sites.
In 2016, a copy of this VHS tape sold for $300 on eBay. However, remember that condition is crucial. A mint-condition, unopened copy will be worth much more than a well-worn, played tape. Also, the controversial cover is a must for the tape to have high value.
2. Beauty and the Beast (Black Diamond VHS, 1992)

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” Black Diamond VHS edition is another old movie tape treasure. The “Black Diamond” collection refers to Disney classics released between 1984 and 1994, identifiable by a black diamond symbol on the spine of the case.
These tapes have become highly sought after by collectors. They are not just valuable because of their rarity but also because Disney’s Black Diamond collection was the first time many Disney classics were available for home viewing. If you have this version of “Beauty and the Beast” in good condition, it could be worth hundreds of dollars.
3. Star Wars (Original Trilogy VHS, 1995)

Star Wars fans are some of the most dedicated collectors out there, and the original trilogy VHS tapes released in 1995 are highly prized. This set includes “A New Hope,” “The Empire Strikes Back,” and “Return of the Jedi.”
What sets this version apart is that it is the last release of the original, unaltered trilogy before George Lucas made changes for the 1997 Special Edition release. A mint condition, unopened set of these tapes can fetch several hundred dollars.
4. The Godfather Trilogy (VHS, 1992)

The “Godfather” trilogy is one of the most critically acclaimed film series of all time. The 1992 VHS box set, which includes all three films, is particularly valuable.
The set was released to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the original film, making it a collector’s item. Depending on the condition, this box set can fetch anywhere from $50 to $150.
5. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (VHS, 1988)

The 1988 VHS release of Steven Spielberg’s “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” can bring in a nice sum of money. This is especially true for copies that are still in their original, unopened packaging.
The film is a beloved classic, and the tapes are not as common as some other releases, making them a desirable collectible. Depending on the condition, these can sell for anywhere from $50 to $200.
6. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Black Diamond VHS, 1994)

Another gem from the Disney Black Diamond collection is “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” This was Disney’s first-ever animated feature, making it a significant piece of history.
The 1994 Black Diamond VHS release of this film can be quite valuable, especially if it’s in good condition. It’s not uncommon to see these tapes listed for hundreds of dollars.
7. Titanic (VHS, 1997)

Although not as old as some other tapes on this list, the 1997 VHS release of “Titanic” can still be worth a fair amount. The film was a massive box office success and has a dedicated fan base.
The VHS release was unusual in that it came as a two-tape set due to the film’s length. A mint condition, unopened set can be worth anywhere from $50 to $100.
8. The Lion King (Black Diamond VHS, 1995)

“The Lion King” is another highly sought-after tape from the Black Diamond collection. This movie was a massive hit when it was first released and continues to be a favorite among Disney fans.
The 1995 Black Diamond VHS release of “The Lion King” can be worth a pretty penny, especially if it’s in good condition. Prices can range from $50 to a few hundred dollars.
9. The Terminator (VHS, 1985)

The original 1985 VHS release of “The Terminator” can be quite valuable. This movie launched a successful franchise and made Arnold Schwarzenegger a household name.
If you have a good condition, unopened copy of this tape, it could be worth anywhere from $50 to $200.
10. Aladdin (Black Diamond VHS, 1993)

Another Black Diamond tape to look for is “Aladdin.” This film was a massive hit when it was first released and continues to be a favorite among Disney fans.
The 1993 Black Diamond VHS release of “Aladdin” can be quite valuable, especially if it’s in good condition. Prices can range from $50 to a few hundred dollars.