If you’re not a kid from the 60s, 70s, or 80s, you might not have heard of the legendary Hess trucks. It’s a toy brand that has captured the hearts of many children and collectors in the United States. The brand started in 1964 when Hess Oil Company released its first toy truck. Since then, it has become a staple in American households, and every year during the Christmas season, people eagerly wait for the company’s newest release. But today, we’ll focus not on the latest models but on the beloved old Hess trucks. We’ll take a trip down memory lane and discover why these vintage toys are still worth cherishing today.
The History of Old Hess Trucks
Old Hess trucks are a favorite for collectors and toy truck enthusiasts alike. These trucks have been around for decades and have a rich history behind them. Here’s everything you need to know about old Hess trucks:
The Beginnings of Hess Trucks
The first Hess truck was released in 1964 as a way for Hess gas stations to promote their business during the holiday season. These trucks were initially made available for purchase at Hess gas stations and became an instant hit with customers looking for unique holiday gifts for their children.
The Evolution of Hess Trucks
Over the years, old Hess trucks have evolved in design and functionality. From the classic 1964 tanker truck to the space shuttle and fire truck designs, Hess trucks have always been innovative and exciting. One of the most popular Hess trucks to date is the 1970 Fire Truck which has become a collector’s item.
The Value of Old Hess Trucks
Old Hess trucks are highly sought after by collectors and toy enthusiasts. They hold their value well and can appreciate in price over time. The value of old Hess trucks varies depending on the condition, rarity, and age of the truck.
How to Find Old Hess Trucks
If you are looking to start or add to your collection of old Hess trucks, there are a few places you can look. eBay and other auction sites are a good place to start. You can also check local toy stores and flea markets. Online collectors’ forums are also a great resource for finding old Hess trucks.
Tips for Maintaining Old Hess Trucks
To ensure your collection of old Hess trucks stays in good condition, it’s important to take care of them properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid touching the trucks with bare hands as oils from your skin can corrode the metal and paint over time.
Why Collect Old Hess Trucks?
Collecting old Hess trucks can bring back memories of childhood and provide a sense of nostalgia. It’s also a great investment opportunity as the value of old Hess trucks can increase over time. Plus, collecting old Hess trucks is just plain fun!
Conclusion
Old Hess trucks have a rich history and remain a beloved toy among collectors of all ages. With their unique designs and the nostalgia they bring, collecting old Hess trucks is a worthwhile pursuit. Whether you’re looking to start a collection or add to an existing one, there are plenty of resources available to help you find these classic toys.
History of Old Hess Trucks
The history of old Hess trucks dates back to 1964 when Leon Hess, the founder of Hess Corporation, introduced the first-ever toy truck as a holiday gift for his customers. The 1964 Hess toy truck was a replica of the Hess oil tanker truck, complete with working lights and a horn. The idea was an instant success, and it sparked the beginning of an annual tradition that has continued to this day.
The Charm of Old Hess Trucks
One of the most appealing things about old Hess trucks is their charm. These toys are not only collectibles, but they also have a nostalgic and sentimental appeal. Many people who grew up in the 1960s and 1970s have fond memories of receiving Hess trucks as Christmas gifts. Moreover, Hess trucks are famous for their high-quality construction, intricate details, and unique features, such as working lights, sirens, and sound effects.
Value of Old Hess Trucks
If you’re a collector, you might be wondering about the value of old Hess trucks. Well, the answer is: it depends. While some Hess trucks are relatively common and have a low value, others are rare, highly sought-after, and can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The value of old Hess trucks depends on various factors, such as the year of production, the condition of the vehicle, and the completeness of the set (including the box, inserts, and instructions).
The Most Popular Old Hess Trucks
Over the years, Hess has released dozens of toy trucks, and some have become more popular than others. Among the most sought-after old Hess trucks are the 1964 Hess truck, the 1965 Hess tanker trailer, the 1966 Hess Voyager tanker ship, the 1967 Hess tanker truck, the 1970 Hess fire truck, the 1975 Hess trailer truck, the 1988 Hess truck and racer, and the 1995 Hess helicopter and transport.
The Benefits of Collecting Old Hess Trucks
Collecting old Hess trucks can be an enjoyable and rewarding hobby for several reasons. Firstly, these toys have a timeless appeal that can bring back fond memories of childhood. Secondly, they are excellent conversation starters, and you can impress your friends and family with your knowledge of these unique toys. Finally, collecting old Hess trucks can be a sound investment, as some models have shown a steady appreciation in value over the years.
Where to Find Old Hess Trucks
If you’re looking to buy old Hess trucks, you have several options. Firstly, you can check online auction sites, such as eBay, and see if there are any listings for the models you’re interested in. Secondly, you can visit toy collector fairs and events, where you can meet other collectors and browse through their collections. Thirdly, you can search antique shops, flea markets, and garage sales for old Hess trucks, although finding rare models through these channels can be a hit-or-miss proposition.
Caring for Old Hess Trucks
If you’re fortunate enough to own old Hess trucks, you’ll want to take good care of them to preserve their value and condition. Firstly, you should avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can cause fading, discoloration, or warping. Secondly, you should keep your old Hess trucks away from children or pets who might play rough with them and cause damage. Finally, you can clean your old Hess trucks gently with a soft cloth and mild soap solution, taking care not to scratch or damage the paint or decals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, old Hess trucks are more than just toys; they are symbols of tradition, quality, and nostalgia. Whether you’re an avid collector or simply a fan of these classic toys, there’s something to appreciate about old Hess trucks. By learning about their history, value, and charm, you can enhance your enjoyment of these timeless relics and perhaps even start your collection.
Third Section: The Evolution of Old Hess Trucks
The Early Years of Old Hess Trucks
The first old Hess truck was produced in 1964, which was a tank truck that was sold at a price of $1.29. This truck was not a big hit at first, mainly because it was only sold at Hess gas stations in New Jersey. But the idea proved successful, and by 1972, the Hess truck had grown in popularity and was being sold in all Hess gas stations in the United States.
In the early years, most old Hess trucks were designed to resemble the real Hess delivery trucks, which made them highly collectible for truck enthusiasts.
The Transition Years of Old Hess Trucks
In the 1980s, Hess started using the old trucks as a platform to advertise different features and elements of gas stations. For instance, in 1980, Hess produced an RV that was a replica of a truck then it could be used to explore the countryside. In 1984, Hess produced a lighted trolley that was used to advertise the Convenience store.
The High-Tech Years of Old Hess Trucks
In the 1990s, Hess moved to the high tech! Hess started adding electronics to the trucks, lights, and sirens, which made them even more appealing as gifts for children. Even if the electronic gadgets increased the cost of the trucks, it was worth it because of the level of excitement these additions brought to the trucks.
The End of the Old Hess Trucks
Hess discontinued the production of Hess trucks after 54 years in 2018. It was a business decision that was made because of the company’s shift in the focus of its energy business. The last old Hess truck was a flatbed truck modeled after the 2018 Hess tanker truck and it was sold for $33.99.
The Collectability of Old Hess Trucks
| Year | Name | Price at release | Price in 2021 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Tank Truck | $1.29 | $11.22 |
| 1975 | 1975 Hess Box Trailer | $2.29 | $11.58 |
| 1985 | 1985 Hess First Bank | $4.99 | $12.37 |
| 1996 | 1996 Hess Emergency Truck | $16.99 | $28.23 |
Old Hess trucks are highly collectible, and some are even considered to be valuable items that can fetch a high price in auctions. The collectible value varies depending on the age of the truck, its condition, and whether or not it’s the original box. For instance, the first old Hess truck, which sells for $1.29 back in 1964, can now be worth as much as $11 or more, depending on its condition.
In conclusion, old Hess trucks have come a long way from their simple beginnings in the 1960s. Over the years, they have evolved into a collection of highly detailed and highly collectible toy trucks, which have delighted children and collectors alike. Despite the end of production, the collectible value of old Hess trucks will undoubtedly remain strong for many years to come.
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Thanks for the Memories
So there you have it, the fascinating world of old Hess trucks. These iconic toys conjure up vivid memories of childhoods past, and many collectors still cherish them today. Whether you’re someone who collects them or simply appreciates the nostalgia they bring, we hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to visit us again soon for more articles on all things classic and vintage!