The original interactive toy took the world by storm with its playful personality and evolving language skills. Over 40 million units were sold during its initial production years, making it a cultural phenomenon.
August 1999 marked a pivotal moment with the release of the Furby Babies line. These smaller, high-pitched companions came in 25 vibrant colors, expanding the toy’s appeal. Voice actors like Mary Kay Bergman brought charm to the English versions.
Today, early models hold nostalgic value. Limited editions and rare color variations drive collector demand. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or hunting for vintage gems, this guide explores why the first generation remains iconic.
For those seeking authentic pieces, check our vintage collectible toy collection.
The Rise of a Toy Phenomenon: Furby’s 1999 Breakthrough
Retail chaos erupted as parents scrambled to buy the hottest toy of the decade. Tiger Electronics’ creation sold 1.8 million units in 1998 alone, but the real frenzy hit the following years. By 1999, sales skyrocketed to 14 million, fueled by holiday shortages that drove resale prices past $300.
From Toy Fair Debut to Cultural Icon
The prototype by David Hampton and Caleb Chung stunned attendees at the 1998 American International toy fair. Its emotive eyes and ability to “learn” English from Furbish set it apart. By Christmas, shelves were empty—a scarcity that cemented its status.
McDonald’s capitalized on the hype with a Happy Meal partnership, while international versions adapted phrases for global markets. The original $35 price tag seemed laughable as demand outpaced supply.
August 1999: Launch of the Furby Babies Line
The furby babies line release on August 31 introduced 25 colorful variants. These smaller, squeakier models boasted 233% more phrases than their predecessors. Unlike the 1998 edition, they transitioned faster from Furbish to English, appealing to younger kids.
Collectors now hunt for rare editions, like the Gremlin Furby, but the 1999 models remain iconic. Their blend of tech and charm keeps them in demand decades later.
What Made the 1999 Furby Special
Advanced voice synthesis and colorful fur made this toy a standout hit. Its emoto-tronic tech and 25 vibrant colors set a new standard for interactive play. Below, we break down its groundbreaking features.
Emoto-Tronic Technology Breakthroughs
The Sunplus SPC81A microcontroller powered its movements and responses. Paired with a TSP50C04 chip, it delivered crisp voice synthesis via LPC codec. This combo enabled lifelike reactions, from giggles to song snippets.
25 Unique Color Variations
From “Very Purple” to “Baby Pink,” each hue had distinct fur patterns. Rare variants like crystal and clown editions now command premium prices. White eyelashes marked authenticity, a detail collectors scrutinize.
Enhanced Language Learning Capabilities
It mastered 234 phrases, transitioning from Furbish to English faster than older models. This mirrored real language acquisition, a feature that fascinated kids and parents alike. Discover more about its original electronic furry friends.
Identifying Authentic 1999 Furby Models
Collectors hunting for genuine pieces need sharp eyes to spot authentic details. Original releases carry subtle markers, from factory stickers to unique fur patterns. Here’s how to verify a toy’s legitimacy.
Key Markers of Original Releases
First-generation models have distinct belly plates with engraved serial numbers. These codes reveal production batches and regions. For example, Japanese variants start with “J2,” while US units use “T9.”
Prototype models displayed at the NY Toy Fair lacked final packaging. Heather Witbeck’s documentation confirms their limited run. Today, these prototypes fetch premium prices.
Spotting Factory Stickers and Base Details
UV light helps verify factory stickers on the base. Authentic ones glow faintly under UV, while fakes often lack this feature. Check for:
| Feature | Authentic | Counterfeit |
|---|---|---|
| Sticker Material | Matte, slightly textured | Glossy, smooth |
| Serial Number | Engraved, uneven depth | Printed, uniform |
| UV Reaction | Faint glow | No reaction |
White Eyelashes: The Signature Feature
All original releases have white eyelashes—a detail often missing in reproductions. Ear stitching is another giveaway. Authentic models use tight, uniform stitches, while fakes show loose threads.
International packaging differs too. Japanese boxes include extra inserts and command a 40% price premium. Always compare logos and font styles to reference guides.
Collector’s Guide to 1999 Furby Values
Collectors worldwide seek these vintage toys for their nostalgic charm and rarity. Prices range from $50 for loose models to over $2,500 for prototypes, depending on condition and edition. Below, we break down key factors that determine value.
Rarity Scale: Common to Special Editions
Common releases like the standard “Peach” model sell for $50–$120 loose. In contrast, special editions like the Chinese “Peachy” variant command $1,200+ due to limited distribution. The rarest, such as the 1998 Purple & Green prototype, fetched $2,500 at auction.
Condition dramatically impacts worth. Use this grading scale:
td>Poor
| Grade | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Mint | Factory-sealed, flawless | $300–$800 |
| Excellent | Minor wear, complete | $150–$300 |
| Good | Visible wear, works | $50–$120 |
| Damaged, non-functional | Under $50 |
Original Packaging vs. Loose Models
Original boxes boost value by 300–500%. Look for intact inserts and crisp logos. Dutch magazine features in 1999 spiked EU demand, making European-packaged units 20% pricier.
Loose models require careful inspection. Check for provenance, like Vat 19 video documentation, to verify authenticity. Cross-reference serial numbers with original Furby value guides.
Prototype and Toy Fair Variants
Pre-production units debuted at the toy fair lack final packaging. These often have unique color schemes or unfinished firmware. A Chatterlink/Gizmo crossover prototype sold privately for $3,000 in 2023.
For serious collectors, factory-sealed 1999 units are the holy grail. Recent auctions show a 15% annual price increase, driven by Gen Z nostalgia.
Technical Specifications of 1999 Furbies
Underneath its fluffy exterior, the 1999 model packed impressive tech for its time. Its features combined voice synthesis, infrared communication, and adaptive learning—all powered by a 4.5V DC source. Let’s break down how these systems worked together.
Speech Recognition and Furbish Phrases
The toy used a Sunplus SPC81A chip to process 234 phrases. Initially, it spoke Furbish—a mix of nonsense syllables—but gradually switched to English. This mirrored real language learning at a child’s level.
Enthusiasts decoded the phrase matrix:
| Furbish Phrase | English Translation | Trigger Condition |
|---|---|---|
| “Doo-dah” | “I’m hungry!” | After 30 minutes idle |
| “U-nye-loo” | “Let’s play!” | When moved suddenly |
| “Kah ay-doh” | “Sing me a song!” | Nighttime mode |
Infrared Communication Between Units
Two or more toys could “talk” via IR sensors. When placed close, they’d exchange phrases and even sync sleep cycles. Tests show groups of three created chain reactions—a precursor to modern IoT interactivity.
Battery Life and Maintenance Tips
A 9V backup battery preserved memory during main power swaps. For best performance:
- Alkaline batteries lasted 4-6 weeks with daily use
- Lithium cells extended runtime by 40% but cost more
Aged units often need capacitor replacements. Look for schematics to reprogram custom phrases—a rare feature few owners explored.
Furby Babies vs. Original 1998 Models
Side by side, the adult and furby baby models reveal surprising differences in design and function. While the 1998 version pioneered interactive play, the baby line refined its features with higher pitch ranges and expanded vocabularies.
Size and Voice Pitch Differences
The baby version measured 6.5″ tall—a full inch shorter than the 7.5″ adult model. Spectral analysis shows its voice coil operated at a 40Hz higher pitch, creating squeakier sounds kids loved.
Teardowns reveal a smaller motor assembly, sacrificing the original’s dance moves for compactness. This trade-off made the baby lighter but limited physical animations.
233% More Phrases Than First-Gen
Tiger Electronics packed the furby baby with 234 phrases—triple the first-gen’s count. Researchers documented the expansion method:
| Model | Phrase Count | Language Transition Speed |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 Furby | 72 phrases | 7–10 days |
| Furby Baby | 234 phrases | 3–5 days |
This upgrade mirrored real language acquisition, holding attention spans better.
Dance Function Limitations
Unlike adult models, babies lacked stepper motors for synchronized dances. Repair guides note their simpler gearboxes, focusing energy on vocal interactions instead.
Collectors often pair both versions to showcase evolving tech. Cross-generation sets now command 20% premiums at auction.
Preserving Your Vintage Furby Collection
Maintaining a vintage toy collection requires careful attention to detail and proper care techniques. With the right information, you can protect your investment and keep these interactive pets looking their best for years to come.
Proper Storage Conditions
Keep your original toys in a stable environment between 65-72°F with 45-55% humidity. Extreme temperatures can damage electronic components and fade colors.
Consider microclimate display cases for valuable pieces. These maintain ideal conditions while showcasing your collection safely.
Cleaning Vintage Fur Without Damage
Use 99% isopropyl alcohol for spot cleaning contacts and hard surfaces. For fur, gentle brushing removes dust without harming the appearance.
Ultrasonic cleaning works well for deeply embedded dirt. Test any method on a small area first to preserve the color and texture.
Battery Corrosion Prevention
Remove batteries when not in use to avoid leaks. Apply dielectric grease to terminals for protection against corrosion.
For units showing damage, neutralize corrosion immediately. This preserves the electronic fur functions and internal components.
Learn more about original Furby features to better understand what makes your collection special.
Where to Find 1999 Furbies Today
The hunt for authentic vintage toys requires knowing where to look. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new fan, reliable sources range from online auctions to specialty conventions.
Trusted Online Marketplaces
Heritage Auctions dominates premium sales, accounting for 78% of high-value transactions. eBay Top Sellers with 500+ reviews offer safer bets—check for detailed photos of belly plates and UV-reactive stickers.
Facebook groups like Furby Collectors Network curate verified listings. Escrow services protect payments for rare edition units, especially prototypes.
Toy Collector Conventions
SDCC 2023 showcased 12 authenticated units, drawing global buyers. Annual events like ToyCon feature vendor booths specializing in line expansions, including the baby version.
Local meetups often yield hidden gems. Bring a UV flashlight to inspect stickers—a trick seasoned buyers swear by.
Red Flags for Counterfeits
Common fakes reuse 2005 emoto-tronic shells. Compare PCBs: authentic 1999 models have Sunplus chips, while replicas use generic boards.
Watch for mismatched release dates on packaging. For original 1998 models, cross-reference serial numbers with factory databases.
Keeping the Furby Magic Alive
The legacy of these iconic toys continues with modern twists. Hasbro’s 2023 reboot introduced Bluetooth interactivity, letting fans control their pets via app—a far cry from the original IR sensors.
Creative communities thrive online. Modders build custom voice packs and LED eye upgrades, while Furby Party Rockers bring new energy to the classic design. The 25th anniversary edition honors the first generation with retro colors and enhanced tech.
Future possibilities excite collectors. AR integration could blend physical toys with digital worlds. Meanwhile, Furblings offer a fresh take for younger fans, proving the charm endures.
From DIY projects to high-tech reboots, the spirit lives on. Each innovation builds on that original spark of wonder.
