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Top 10 Most Expensive Lego Sets of All Time

Top 10 Most Expensive Lego Sets of All Time

LEGO sets are some of the most asked-for toys in the world! These sets are pre-designed kits that allow you to build castles, vehicles, and unique objects. But some of them cost thousands of dollars, making them high-value collectibles.

The most expensive LEGO set of all time is the Space Command Center. This space-themed set is worth about $10,400 and was released in 1979. It comes with two buggies, a modular space center, and four astronauts (two in white suits, two in red suits).

If you’re a toy collector or LEGO enthusiast, this ranking will help you discover the costliest and most unique LEGO sets of all time.

Here Are the Top 10 Most Expensive LEGO Sets of All Time:

  1. Space Command Center (926) – $10,400
  2. First Edition Star Wars Millennium Falcon – $9,500
  3. Star Wars Cloud City – $9,050
  4. 375-2 Castle “Yellow Castle” – $8,450+
  5. H.C. Andersen’s Clumsy Hans (LEGO Inside Tour Exclusive) – $7,375
  6. Piper Airplane (LEGO Inside Tour Exclusive) – $5,380
  7. Monorail Airport Shuttle – $5,224
  8. Grand Carousel – $2,588+
  9. Galaxy Commander – $2,580+
  10. TMNT Antonio’s Pizza-Rama Pizza Slice – $2,500

10. TMNT Antonio’s Pizza-Rama Pizza Slice – $2,500

TMNT-Antonio's-Pizza-Rama-Pizza-Slice
photo source: Brickipedia

Comic-Con events have become relatively mainstream over the last few decades. They’re a mecca for anyone interested in fantasy and science fiction properties, anime, and comic books.

They can also produce some of the most collectible LEGO objects, including the rare Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) Antonio’s Pizza-Rama. This LEGO pepperoni pizza came in a slice-shaped box and was only available at the 2012 New York Comic-Con event.

You’re not alone if you’re surprised to discover that this LEGO set is shaped like a food item. In fact, this set is the first and only LEGO brick set designed to create a single food item (a slice of pizza).

This uniqueness is one of the reasons why the TMNT Antonio’s Pizza-Rama set is worth about $4,276. If you’re lucky, you can find a used version for as little as $2,500!

Why Is It So Expensive?

The Antonio’s Pizza-Rama Pizza LEGO set is expensive due to its rarity and collectability.

While many of the high-value sets included in this ranking were once available from toy stores, this set was only available to attendees of the 2012 New York Comic-Con. It’s also one of the few food-themed LEGO sets, making it even rarer than building-based or vehicle-themed sets.

Because this set is also a TMNT item, it’s a must-have collectible for TMNT and LEGO fans alike.

9. Galaxy Commander – $2,580+

Lego-Galaxy-Commander-6980
photo source: BrickLink

Like many of the most expensive LEGO Minifigures, several of the costliest LEGO sets are worth thousands.

Take the 6980 Galaxy Commander, for example. This space-themed 443-piece LEGO set is worth about $2,580, though it can sell for more than $3,000 based on its condition.

This set comes with a grey-and-yellow base square that resembles a helipad, two space buggies (that can hold one Minifigure each), and four Minifigures. The bricks combine to form a white-and-blue plane-like space vehicle that can detach (or launch) from its command pod.

Why Is It So Expensive?

The 6980 Galaxy Commander was released in 1983, making it a vintage LEGO set that’s hard to find today. Finding it unopened and in like-new condition is even more challenging, which is why collectors can sell the Galaxy Commander for thousands.

In short, this LEGO set is expensive because of its vintage status and rarity. Condition also plays a role in pricing. You’ll soon find that these factors influence the value of pretty much every high-priced LEGO set!

8. Grand Carousel – $2,588+

Lego-Grand-Carousel
photo source: eBay

Initially released in 2009, the Grand Carousel is one of the most sought-after LEGO sets of all time. It’s also comparatively pricey, selling for upwards of $2,588.

This set comes in two editions:

  • 10196 LEGO Grand Carousel (2009), and
  • 10257 Creator Expert Carousel (2017)

Both are equally pricey and feature near-identical pieces and functions.

One of the most notable aspects of this set is that it comes with a battery that powers the carousel, allowing it to spin. This battery also raises and lowers the carousel’s LEGO horses and carriages.

The LEGO Grand Carousel has nine Minifigures: Eight unique multi-sized passengers and a capped ride operator.

Why Is It So Expensive?

Demand is responsible for this LEGO set’s high price.

Many LEGO fans enjoy this set because of its colorful pieces, fun Minifigures, and interesting “ride” functions. This set even plays its own carousel music, making it far more interactive and engaging than stationary, soundless LEGO toys.

But because this set was only available during 2009, 2010, and briefly again in 2017, the supply of available sets is comparatively low. This relationship between supply and demand ensures that the Grand Carousel will only become more valuable over time, especially if kept in the box in like-new condition.

7. Monorail Airport Shuttle – $5,224

Monorail-Airport-Shuttle-Lego-Set
photo source: BrickSet

For many, especially those who travel often, the airport monorail that transports passengers from terminal to terminal isn’t exactly the most exciting thing in the world. But in the world of LEGO, the Monorail Airport Shuttle is a thrilling thing to behold.

This LEGO set is a sizeable 767 pieces (not including the nine Minifigures that come with it) and features two pick-up/drop-off stations. It also has a winding two-level track and a bright red two-carriage monorail train.

Released in 1990, the 6399 Monorail Airport Shuttle isn’t the oldest set included in this ranking, but it is vintage!

Like the Grand Carousel, this set is beloved for its ability to move without manual touch. The monorail train is powered by a 9V battery, allowing it to cruise up and down the track on its own.

If you have a sealed, like-new LEGO Monorail Airport Shuttle in your toy collection, you’ll be happy to know that this set currently sells for upwards of $5,224.

Why Is It So Expensive?

The first battery-operated LEGO train dates back to the 1960s, but the excitement of seeing your hand-built LEGO vehicles come to life and move on their own is still a novel experience. As such, this set’s monorail (and its battery power) make it an in-demand item among collectors and LEGO enthusiasts.

But because the Monorail Airport Shuttle is a vintage item, supply is much lower than demand. This relationship results in higher-than-average prices that aren’t likely to drop anytime soon.

6. Piper Airplane (LEGO Inside Tour Exclusive) – $5,380

Piper-Airplane-Lego-Set
photo source: BrickSet

Only a lucky handful have ever enjoyed a tour of the Denmark LEGO headquarters. But those who have typically walk away with exclusive LEGO sets that aren’t available to the average consumer.

Those who won the chance to participate in the 2012 LEGO Inside Tour got even luckier when they received one of the rarest and most valuable LEGO sets of all time, the Piper Airplane.

Modeled after the first airplane acquired by the LEGO company, this red-and-white (with black accents) plane is valued at a competitive $5,380. But because only there are only 53 of these sets (in the whole world), finding one for sale can be a little tricky.

Why Is It So Expensive?

Rarity is the top reason this set is so pricey. Only those who got the chance to be part of the LEGO Inside Tour of 2012 received one of these. Because the set is so exclusive, few ever end up trading hands on auction sites like eBay.

5. H.C. Andersen’s Clumsy Hans (LEGO Inside Tour Exclusive) – $7,375

HC-Andersen's-Clumsy-Hans
photo source: BrickSet

Like the Piper Airplane, H.C. Andersen’s Clumsy Hans was an exclusive gift to those lucky few who go to participate in the LEGO Inside Tour. However, this particular set was given to the participants of the 2015 tour, not the 2012 one.

It’s also crucial to note that hundreds of LEGOLAND Florida Ambassador pass holders received one during the same year. All told, 320 of these 714-piece sets were made.

While the current price for this set hovers around $2,400, the value is estimated to rise over the next years. Additionally, it’s crucial to note that this particular set has sold for up to $7,373.

Interested LEGO collectors who could not get LEGOLAND Florida passes or attend the 2015 LEGO Inside Tour could spend even more to add this unique set to their collection. Only time will tell.

Why Is It So Expensive?

Exclusivity is the primary reason this set is so costly. With only 320 ever being released, only the most fortunate or diehard LEGO fans own H.C. Andersen’s Clumsy Hans.

4. 375-2 Castle “Yellow Castle” – $8,450+

375-2-Castle-Yellow-Castle
photo source: BrickSet

Released in 1978, the “Yellow Castle” (also called the LEGO 375-2 Castle) is the oldest high-value LEGO set, with an estimated minimum value of $8,450. In truth, this set is likely worth much more (up to $10,000), and it’ll probably continue to appreciate over time.

This set isn’t the one with the most pieces (it has 767), but it does come with a surprising number of Minifigure (14). It’s also a novelty for collectors in the United States, as it wasn’t released in US markets.

As the set’s name implies, it’s essentially a collection of pieces that allows you to build a yellow castle. However, the castle can be built in several different styles and forms, making this one of the most creativity-boosting vintage LEGO sets.

Why Is It So Expensive?

There are two reasons why this set continues to get more valuable over time.

Firstly, it wasn’t available in the United States during its initial release, so it’s a rare find for US collectors.

Secondly, this set is more than 40 years old. As such, it’s a vintage item that will become more challenging to find over the coming decades.

3. Star Wars Cloud City – $9,050

Star-Wars-Cloud-City-Lego-Set
photo source: eBay

Unless you’ve spent the last few decades hanging out at an isolated Buddhist monastery, there’s a good chance you’ve heard about the Star Wars franchise. This intellectual property (IP) is one of the most massively successful in the world, and items related to it tend to sell like hotcakes to fans and collectors alike.

That’s certainly the case for the 10123 Star Wars Cloud City LEGO set, which has changed hands for an astounding $9,050 via auction sites and private online markets.

Initially released in 2003 and consisting of just under 700 pieces, this set is based on a location from the 1980 film, The Empire Strikes Back.

The included Minifigures include fan-favorite characters like Boba Fett, Luke Skywalker, Lando Calrissian, and Han Solo. Consequently, this set immediately appeals to long-time Star Wars fans.

Why Is It So Expensive?

There are plenty of reasons why this set sells for thousands. Star Wars is one of the most profitable franchises in the world, with millions of dedicated fans. Many of these fans have enjoyed Star Wars since the 1970s, and the throwback theme of this set likely appeals to them.

2. First Edition Star Wars Millennium Falcon – $9,500

First-Edition-Star-Wars-Millennium-Falcon
photo source: Daily Mail

LEGO has released several Millennium Falcon sets since their initial 2000 release (the 7190 Millennium Falcon). But the most valuable of the lot is the First Edition 10179 Ultimate Collector’s Millennium Falcon.

This version of the iconic Star Wars vehicle typically sells for about $7,000, but one eBay buyer managed to sell theirs for $9,500! For perspective, the original 2000 Millennium Falcon has an average value of only about $700.

Of course, the 2000 version only came with 663 pieces (and six Minifigures) and wasn’t the most detailed final build. On the other hand, the 10179 Ultimate Collector’s Millennium Falcon included 5,197 pieces and five Minifigures.

It was massively popular during its 2007 release and enjoyed a 10th-anniversary re-release in 2017. Still, the 2007 version is considered the true treasure, with many private sellers earning thousands on like-new First Edition sets.

Why Is It So Expensive?

The Star Wars franchise is one of the world’s most successful and profitable franchises, and any merchandise related to Star Wars can sell for incredible prices. That’s true of everything from action figures to LEGO sets, and the comparatively rare First Edition Ultimate Collector’s Millennium Falcon is no exception.

1. Space Command Center (926) – $10,400

Space-Command-Center-926
photo source: BrickLink

The most expensive LEGO set is the 926 Space Command Center, released in 1979. Though this set originally sold for about $25, it’s now worth about $10,400.

In terms of included pieces, this set isn’t all that special. It has 173 pieces (189 for the US-only 493 version) and four Minifigures. That’s only a small fraction of the pieces you’d find in today’s most popular LEGO sets.

This set comes with the following:

  • A flat gray base board (lunar surface)
  • A modular blue space center
  • Two space buggies
  • Two satellite dishes
  • Two white-suited astronauts (Astronaut White)
  • Two red-suited astronauts (Astronaut Red)

The 926 Space Command Center is a rare find, and it’s also a vintage set. These factors help make it a must-have collectible.

Why Is It So Expensive?

There are several reasons why LEGO sets are so expensive. But like many other high-priced LEGO sets, the 926 Space Command Center is primarily expensive because of supply and demand.

It’s one of the rarest sets in the world, and finding a complete or unopened version is exceptionally challenging.

However, because LEGO sets and Minifigures are highly collectible items, the demand for the 926 Space Command Center has skyrocketed over time. As this demand continues to increase, the value of this particular set is likely to follow suit.

It’s also worth mentioning that the 926 Space Command Center is a vintage toy.

Like other vintage toys, part of its value stems from the fact that it was released decades ago. Because you can’t just buy it from your local department or toy store, it’s considered more valuable than LEGO sets sold in stores today.

Still, this set isn’t nearly as costly as the most expensive toys in the world!

Why Are LEGO Sets So Expensive?

There’s a laundry list of reasons LEGO sets can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. While many of the most valuable sets are vintage models, even brand-new sets currently available can be quite costly.

Generally, LEGO set prices vary depending on the following:

  • The included number of bricks
  • The associated intellectual property (IP)
  • The demand for the particular set

In terms of newly released options, LEGO sets that have thousands of bricks and are associated with a popular franchise (like Star Wars of Harry Potter) tend to sell for the highest prices. These sets are costlier than others because of demand and initial input costs.

For example, a set with a general theme (like a small LEGO house) that only includes about a hundred or so bricks is much easier to manufacture than one with a specific theme that includes thousands of pieces. It’s crucial to remember that LEGO must pay licensing costs when creating franchise-related sets, and these costs are often passed onto the consumer via higher prices.

Still, vintage sets can break the rules. For example, the demand for space-related LEGO sets isn’t at an all-time high, but many vintage space-themed sets currently top the lists in terms of value.

That’s because vintage sets are increasingly rare and difficult to find, especially in good condition. As such, older LEGO sets tend to be the most in-demand options among collectors. This demand boosts set values.

What’s the Most Expensive Lego Set of All Time?

The most expensive LEGO set of all time is the 1979 Space Command Center. This set is worth $10,400, although it initially only cost about $25.

Notably, the US-only version (the 493 Space Command Center) is worth slightly less than its international counterpart. This might be because the 926 Space Command Center set is far rarer and thus more valuable to discerning collectors.

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