At Catawiki, we specialise in premium quality collectable toys that appeal to passionate collectors and enthusiasts. We only accept authentic collectables valued at €50 or more. Our experts review every submission to make sure bidders find special, rare and valuable objects.

Follow these guidelines to increase your chances of a successful sale.

What we accept

We’re looking for authentic, collectable toys in good condition that are no longer widely available in retail. To be accepted, your object must:

• Fall within our accepted categories:
  • Antique or collectable tin toys and mechanical wind-up toys
  • Toy vehicles (e.g. Dinky Toys, Corgi, Lesney, Matchbox, Tekno, Solido, Mebetoys)
  • Branded dolls, Barbie dolls, teddy bears, dollhouses and accessories
  • Authentic LEGO sets (100% LEGO bricks, preferably with original packaging)
  • Movie and pop culture merchandise (e.g. Star Wars, Marvel, NECA, Sideshow)
  • Military miniatures and classic kits (e.g. Airfix, Märklin)
• Be in at least good condition (used with minor signs of wear, or better). Note: only toys made before 1970 can be accepted in “reasonable” condition.
• Be of collectors interest and from a reputable brand (e.g. Steiff, Mattel, Hasbro, LEGO, Schuco, Petitcollin, NECA, Roco, Wilesco)
• Meet the minimum expected value of €50 
   (You can combine objects in one submission to meet this threshold)
• Reserve prices are only possible for high-value objects (€200+) 

What increases your chances of approval:

• Objects from selected reputable & desirable makers
• Objects that come with the original packaging

📌 Examples of accepted objects:

What we do not accept

To  keep our auctions trustworthy and attractive to buyers, we do not accept:

• Mass-produced or unbranded modern toys

• Mixed submissions with toys from multiple brands/types

• Toys in poor condition (damaged or missing parts)

• Toy brands that are not considered collectable: Baby Born, Carrera, CrazyToys HK, DeCool, Duplo, Fischertechnik, Fisher-Price, FurReal, Hotwheels, Kaygoo, Lepin, MegaBlocks, Nerf, Nikko, Revell, The Dinky Collection, Thomas & Friends, Tyco, VTech, various supermarket brands

📌 Examples of rejected objects:

Getting your submission ready

1. Fill in all the details and write a clear description

When you submit an object, you’ll see fields to guide you in providing the right information, such as: object type, brand, series (e.g. Star Wars, Technic, City for LEGO), period or year of release, material, condition, etc. These fields ensure your listing is clear, searchable, and easy for bidders to understand.

Note: To determine condition, we use the following grading system:

• Mint – As new and unused
• Near mint – Unused with very minor imperfections.
• Very good – Barely used, showing minor signs of wear.
• Good – Used, with some signs of wear and tear.
• Reasonable – Heavily used, with ageing and visible wear.
• Poor – Heavy damage, missing key parts, or poor overall presentation. Objects in this condition are not accepted.

Please also use the object description field to share:

• Unique features or notable history of the object
• What is included/not included (e.g. original packaging, etc.)
• Where the object came from/how it was obtained
• If the object has any flaws 

Tip: The more detail you provide, the easier it is for bidders to understand the value of your object – and the more likely it is to sell. Find here more tips on how to write a clear, accurate description.

📌 Examples of a well-written description:

“This limousine with driver is in excellent, working condition. Rarely offered in this condition.

This limousine has a well-functioning flywheel mechanism and is 22 cm long.

Never seen a other front wheel drive version of this type of car by Hess. 

This 100+ year-old toy is in top condition. Don't miss out!

All our items are carefully packaged and shipped by registered mail. Our standard shipping days are Tuesdays and Fridays”.

2. Great photos matter

Photos are the first thing bidders see – so make them count! We recommend including several high-quality images that clearly show the condition and details of your object. This helps bidders make informed decisions and increases your chances of a successful sale.

Your photos should include:

For all submissions:

• A 360° view of the object
• Front and rear three-quarter views
• Close-ups of important details (e.g. brand logos, serial numbers, original box, certificate)

For grouped submissions:

• Overview image including all objects, as well as photos of each one individually

Tip: Avoid photos with people, selfies, or screenshots. Use a neutral background (white or black), avoid low-quality or stock images, and aim for natural lighting. Find here more tips on how to take professional photos.

📌 Examples of good vs. bad photos:

• Clear, sharp photos showing the object in its entirety, including close-ups of key features and the condition of the packaging. The full front view and detailed shots help bidders assess completeness and quality at a glance.

• High-quality images from multiple angles show all sides of the box and models, including the front, back, and underside. This gives bidders a complete view of the lot and builds confidence in what they are bidding on.

• Good-quality images taken from multiple angles clearly show the object’s condition, packaging, and key details — including the underside and interior. This allows bidders to fully assess the lot.

• Avoid holding the object in photos — it obstructs key details, adds shadows, and looks unprofessional. Always place the object on a clean, neutral surface to capture it properly.

• Screenshot images like these are not acceptable. They reduce image quality, show unnecessary screen elements (such as battery status and navigation bars), and do not present the object clearly. Always upload original, high-resolution photos taken directly with your camera.

• Avoid showing feet, hands, or other body parts in your photos. It distracts from the object and appears unprofessional. Always aim for clean, focused images with a neutral background.

3. Additional proof of authenticity

We pay extra attention to ensure authenticity of high-value and autographed objects to protect bidders and ensure a trustworthy marketplace. If your object is part of a limited edition or includes special certifications, we may request additional verification before approval:

✔ Photos of certificates or documentation
✔ Clear photos of box seals, edition numbers, or trademarks
✔ Photos of any special markings or logos

📌 Examples of proof of authenticity:

• Proof of authenticity can include a certificate, an auction house label from a previous sale, or clear photos of original seals. These elements should be visible in the lot images and mentioned in the description to build buyer trust.

Ready to sell? List your toys today

Selling with us is free – commission is only applied if your object sells.

Follow these guidelines to maximise your chances of success.

Register as a seller and submit your object for auction now.