2004 Toys and Prices

Published in 2004, this volume served as a definitive reference guide for the toy collecting community during a period when the market was rapidly expanding through both physical hobby shops and the rise of online auction platforms. Compiled by Karen O'Brien, a seasoned expert in the collectibles field, the book was designed to provide standardized pricing and identification for a vast array of action figures, dolls, and die-cast vehicles that defined the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

The editorial approach focused on offering a snapshot of market valuations, aiming to balance the needs of casual enthusiasts with those of serious investors. O'Brien and her contributors emphasized detailed photography and categorization to help readers navigate the complexities of condition grading and rarity. At the time of its release, the volume was well-regarded as a practical tool for collectors to verify the legitimacy and estimated worth of their acquisitions before the ubiquity of real-time digital pricing databases.