Trivial Pursuit is a game that gained popularity in the 1980s and hasn’t stopped since. Some of you are probably sitting on some pretty vintage editions of the game. Many have been recreated, while others were never updated and are no longer for sale. So, is your old edition of Trivial Pursuit vintage, or is it just old?
Disclaimer: Not everything that’s old is worth anything! In fact, as far as Trivial Pursuit editions go, most are not as valuable as you’d think. Let’s find out why!
Is My Old Copy of Genus 1 Worth Anything?
It’s important to understand the difference between rare and valuable right from the beginning. Rare means something is not easily accessible or of large quantity. By that definition, some Trivial Pursuit editions might be rare, but that doesn’t make them valuable. Genus 1, for example, is not in production anymore, so there are a limited number of games in the world. However, it’s not in high demand, either.
The word valuable usually refers to a thing that is of great worth. In other words, a valuable edition of Trivial Pursuit would be quite expensive and sought after. The original Genus is not very valuable. In fact, it goes for under $30 on Ebay. Maybe the game will grow in value in the future, but as of now, you can purchase it at quite a low price.
If you’re looking to sell your old copy of Genus 1, you can do so for around that price on Ebay or Amazon. The price can vary slightly depending on the condition of the game and whether everything is intact. Many people give their copies away, which often end up in thrift stores and bars.
Why the Value is So Low, Even 40 Years Later?
The short answer to that question is supply and demand. Once again, the market powers do a great job at explaining the situation. When the game first gained popularity in the ’80s, the production company capitalized on that opportunity and printed as many copies as they could, thus satisfying all demand. Everyone who wanted to own a Trivial Pursuit game, could.
Years later, the older versions are no longer in high demand, as all demand has been satisfied. There are many editions of Trivial Pursuit circling your local garage sales, bookstores, thrift stores, and e-commerce websites. Because the game has always been easily accessible, the value is quite low.
Which Versions are the Most Valuable and Collectible?
Trivial Pursuit released some collector’s editions over the years. These usually feature a specially designed game board with unique thematic movers and other special playing pieces. Collector’s editions are generally more valuable than other Trivial Pursuit editions.
Trivial Pursuit Star Wars Classic Trilogy Collector’s Edition is a special edition for fans of the iconic movie franchise. The game comes with a special board with pewters and an R2-D2 model, just like from the movie!
Trivial Pursuit The Beatles Collector’s Edition also comes with a special board. The game set has The Beatles-themed card holders too. Unfortunately, the game is not for sale anywhere at the moment.
Collector’s editions are generally more sought after and valuable than any other regular Trivial Pursuit. Nevertheless, you can still purchase a brand new collector’s game for a reasonable price online or in physical stores.
What is the Most Expensive Trivial Pursuit Ever?
Trivial Pursuit – Zontik Games
The cost of this luxurious edition of Trivial Pursuit ranges between around $6,000 and $10,000. “Set on an inlaid calfskin board with luxuriously scalloped hand-inlaid plinth and embossed with silver or gold” is how Zontik describes its product created by Geoffrey Parker. Pies are inlaid with sterling silver and the game is bound in leather all around.
This is an extra luxurious addition to your board game collection that can make a centerpiece on any coffee table. The game is more of a decor piece, though it is still a game that can be played. If you ever want to splurge on your favorite board game, it is for sale on the official Zontik Games website! You can choose from a wide variety of leather colors for the board and card boxes. Customize the game and make it your own with a color like Bubblegum or Tangerine.
The edition with sterling silver playing pieces has a higher price point. The one without retails at only $6,742.
Buy or Sell?
If you are thinking of buying an old edition of Trivial Pursuit, then you’re in luck! You will find them all over the internet, and even in physical stores and probably your parents’ garage. Check platforms like Ebay and Amazon. Ebay offers lower prices, so it’s the way to go. Remember that the games are not worth much, so don’t let anyone scam you out of money.
If you have an edition for sale, you can sell it, just not for thousands of dollars. Unless it’s the Zontik Games edition, of course! Your best chance is selling your game on Ebay or Amazon for a few bucks. If you own a collector’s edition, you can charge a bit more for it. And if you feel as though it’s not worth the struggle of finding a customer and shipping the game to them, we recommend you donate yours to a local pub or thrift store!
Do you have any experience with buying or selling old editions of Trivial Pursuit? Share it with us in the comments below!
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