Top 5 Most Valuable VHS on National VCR Day

VHS tapes emerged in the US in 1977 and swiftly became a global home entertainment fixture in the ensuing decades. Coveted by collectors, sealed VHS tapes are scarce due to widespread use. Companies like CGC Home Video™ specialize in grading sealed VHS tapes for preservation and value protection, often fetching premium prices at auctions, occasionally reaching five or six figures. 

Similar to comic books, the surge in VHS collecting has resulted in steep auction prices. Owners of potentially valuable tapes are advised to consider grading to maximize their value. 

Top Gun (Pepsi Promo) 

Top Gun, the blockbuster of 1986, ignited fan excitement upon its VHS release, particularly for that iconic volleyball scene watched at home. Contributing to the success of Top Gun's home video release was an extensive $8 million marketing blitz, including a Diet Pepsi commercial featuring a Top Gun theme. A distinct Diet Pepsi promotional version of the VHS, sporting new box art, emerged, significantly rarer than other releases and commanding a premium. 

Ghostbusters 1984 - Sealed

Despite initial setbacks, including budget overruns and production challenges, Jaws, the 1975 classic copies of Jaws have become some of the most valuable VHS tapes ever, with a 1983 edition selling for $32k in 2022. 

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Jaws 1975 - Released on VHS 1980

Despite its critical reception in theaters and beyond, Jaws almost bankrupted Spielberg and his crew. The film went massively over budget because of filming issues and prop difficulties. Luckily, it all worked out, and the film made it to theaters and, later, home video. In 1980, MCA Home Video released the first VHS edition of Jaws, so audiences could finally enjoy the movie at home. Over 40 years later, Jaws has become one of the most expensive VHS tapes of all time. A sealed 1983 copy of Jaws sold for $32k in 2022.

Back to the Future - McDonalds Edition 

Following a triumphant theatrical run, Back to the Future debuted on VHS in 1986. Despite its higher price tag of $79.95, it became the first film to sell 450,000 units at that price point and dominated rentals in 1986. A promotional McDonald's edition of the VHS further added to its allure. With enduring popularity, Back to the Future on VHS has soared in value, with a sealed and graded copy fetching a staggering $75k at auction in June 2022. 

STAR WARS A NEW HOPE - ORIGINAL VHS RELEASE

Star Wars encountered hurdles in its home video debut, with 20th Century Fox delaying its VHS release to mitigate competition and protect box office sales. Eventually, a rental-only VHS surfaced in 1981, prompting chaos as fans clamored for ownership. To appease the demand, Fox released an official retail VHS in 1982. The original release of Star Wars on VHS stands as the most expensive tape, with sealed copies commanding astronomical prices, such as one selling for $114k in 2021.