Hot Wheels 1969 Dodge Charger Dragster Appraisal
Category: Die-cast Toy Car
Description
This is a die-cast toy car, crafted to resemble a muscle car, specifically a 1969 Dodge Charger as indicated by the side badging, but with modifications characteristic of a Hot Wheels "fantasy" design or a dragster style. It is painted a vibrant metallic purple. The construction appears to be primarily metal for the body and plastic for interior components and the prominent engine detail. The engine is situated atop the hood, featuring chrome-like appearance with visible carburetor and intake manifold components. The vehicle has large rear wheels with a deep dish chrome rim and smaller front wheels with a similar chrome rim. Side exhausts, also in a chrome-like finish, exit just behind the front wheels. The rear features a stylized spoiler. The windows are tinted black. No visible significant damage, wear, or repairs are apparent from the image. There appear to be some scuffs or surface imperfections on the wooden surface the car is resting on, but the car itself seems to be in good condition. Details such as maker's marks or specific series information are not visible in the provided image. The style aligns with typical Hot Wheels or similar die-cast car designs from the late 20th or early 21st century, likely representing a customized or drag-racing inspired version of the Dodge Charger.
Appraisal Report
I have examined the provided image of this Hot Wheels 1969 Dodge Charger Dragster, identified by the owner as the 2000 GTO release. The die-cast car is in excellent condition based on the visual evidence; there are no apparent chips, scratches, or signs of playwear. The metallic purple paint retains its luster, and the chrome-like details, including the engine, wheels, and side exhausts, appear intact. The plastic components like the interior and windows are also in good shape. Authenticity, based solely on the image and the owner's information, aligns with a standard Hot Wheels mainline release from around 2000. The casting details, proportions, engine placement, and wheel style are consistent with Hot Wheels' design language for their modified 'fantasy' or dragstrip versions of classic muscle cars. To fully verify authenticity, an in-person examination would be necessary to check for correct base markings, including the copyright date, model name, and production country. Examining the weight and feel would also help differentiate it from potential reproductions or customs. Provenance documentation, such as original packaging or purchase records, would further enhance authentication. Market conditions for Hot Wheels mainline releases from 2000 are generally stable, though specific castings and variations can command premiums. The 1969 Dodge Charger is a popular subject, and dragster versions have a dedicated following. While this model is desirable for collectors of Chargers or Hot Wheels drag cars, it's not considered exceptionally rare within the mainline series. Comparable sales of Hot Wheels 2000 GTO Charger Dragsters in excellent, loose condition typically range between $5 and $15. Factors significantly impacting value would include being sealed in original packaging (carded), the presence of rare variations (though none are apparent here), or exceptional provenance. Given its condition and typical market value for this specific mainline release, the appraisal value reflects an average loose price.
Appraisal Value
$8-12