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Note: Although this is old news and it's amazing how much has been forgotten, this article is being kept up as reference material. A look back to when folks were really Beanie Crazy!

"VERY IMPORTANT NOTICE: On December 31, 1999-11:59 p.m. (CST) All Beanies will be retired..."

It was over three years ago that the above announcement was made and, as most experienced collectors thought, it was just a marketing ploy. An excellent one at that! First Ty announced "The End", then the company let collectors vote on whether it really should be "The End". Of course Collectors were frantic for the Beanies to continue and Ty proved, once more, that they are the masters at marketing and pushing the right buttons on collectors.

Even though the long lines once associated with the regular Beanies Babies are gone, they still popular with both kids and adults. And if it is a limited edition Beanie Baby, the demand is very strong. As with all collectibles -- certain "models or issues" will catch on with Collectors and others just never do. And just because your Beanie is several years old and retired, it doesn't mean it's valuable.

Overall the Beanie Baby Bears are the most popular and prolific beanies with literally dozens of different variations. Although the bears are also found discounted, overall as a group, they seem to hold onto their value the best. Out of the top twenty "Wanted" beanies, there is only one that isn't a bear! Two oldies, but goodies, are the shown -- Peace and Garcia. If you bought one of these at issue price, your investment has certainly increased, but as mentioned above, that doesn't happen every time with Beanie Babies.

As with all collectibles, Collect With Your Heart, But Be Smart!