Buzz
In 1964, Leon Hess, a gas station tycoon, introduced a unique holiday tradition by producing special toy trucks for his Hess gas stations. These sturdy, battery-operated trucks quickly became a hit, cherished by both children and adults. Today, Hess unveils a new design annually, making these trucks highly sought-after collectibles.
If you suspect you might have one of these treasures hidden in your attic, check out the eight most valuable Hess trucks listed by Ray Patterson from RaysHessToyTrucks.com. Keep in mind, though, that the value depends heavily on the truck being in flawless condition and retaining its original packaging. Models without their box or missing parts are far less appealing to collectors.
Contents
1. Hess Tanker Truck (1964) // $1800
Image courtesy of Ray's Hess Toy TrucksThe inaugural Hess truck, released in 1964, is a rare gem with a unique feature—a water reservoir that kids could fill and spray through a nozzle. Its headlights also illuminate. Approximately 150,000 of these 12-inch trucks were produced, and a pristine, boxed version is now worth $1800 or higher. Originally, it sold for just $1.39.
2. Hess 'Red Velvet' Truck (1967) // $2550
Courtesy of Ray's Hess Toy Trucks
This fuel truck is highly coveted due to its distinctive red velvet display stand. The stand, which was included as part of the packaging, was prone to damage, making intact versions rare. Such models can fetch up to $2500 in the collector’s market.
3. Hess ‘Woodbridge’ Tanker Truck (1969) // $1500
Image provided by Ray's Hess Toy TrucksThe appeal of this model lies in its packaging, which features the phrase “Home Office in Woodbridge, New Jersey”—a detail not commonly found on other boxes. If you manage to locate one, be prepared to spend around $1500.
4. Hess Fire Truck (1970) // $525
Image courtesy of Ray's Hess Toy TrucksIn 1970, Hess broke away from their traditional green and white designs by releasing their first-ever fire truck, inspired by the vehicles used at Hess refineries. It featured a detachable ladder and is now valued at approximately $525. However, the 1971 version is even more valuable. Due to a shortage of boxes, Hess shipped that model in plain packaging with a “Season’s Greetings” sticker. A complete set can fetch up to $3500.
5. Hess Barrel Truck (1975) // $3500
Courtesy of Ray's Hess Toy TrucksThis unique box truck includes fuel barrels and a sliding door. While most 1975 models were produced in Hong Kong, a small batch was made in the USA, featuring subtle variations like the absence of “Hess” on the tires and a “Made in USA” label on the box. With only 20 to 40 units produced, this rare version can command $3500 or more, whereas the standard version typically sells for about $375.
6. Hess Tanker Truck with Black Switch (1977) // $375
Courtesy of Ray's Hess Toy TrucksHess released nearly identical tanker trucks in 1977 and 1978, but the 1977 model stands out due to a key difference—some units feature a black switch instead of the usual red one. This variation makes it worth around $375. (Hess did not produce a truck in 1979 due to a national gas crisis, resuming only in 1980.)
7. Hess Training Van (1980) // $375
Courtesy of Ray's Hess Toy TrucksThis unique van, inspired by Hess’s training vehicles, marked a departure from the usual truck designs. It was also the first Hess product to feature a one-piece packaging box. Collectors are willing to pay up to $375 for this model.
8. Hess Truck and Airplane (2002) // $75
Image provided by Ray's Hess Toy TrucksModern Hess trucks rarely fetch high prices, as collectors tend to preserve both the products and their packaging meticulously. However, this recent airplane and truck set is an exception, valued at around $75. The truck features a flatbed designed to transport the aircraft.
