The Ultimate Guide to Hot Wheels Super Treasure Hunts: Which Brands Dominate the Series?
Hot Wheels – the iconic miniature car brand that has captured the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts for decades. For some, it’s more than just a hobby; it’s a passion. And within the realm of Hot Wheels collecting, there’s a coveted group of cars known as Super Treasure Hunts.
Super Treasure Hunts, or STHs for short, are the cream of the crop when it comes to Hot Wheels collectibles. These rare models are highly sought after by collectors worldwide, and their limited availability makes them incredibly valuable. But which car manufacturers rule the Super Treasure Hunt series? Let’s dive into the world of Hot Wheels and find out.
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to remember that collecting Hot Wheels is all about choosing your battles. With thousands of new variations released each year, it’s nearly impossible to own every single car. So, it’s wise to focus on specific castings or series that bring you joy and excitement.
Now, let’s talk about the brands that have made a significant impact in the Super Treasure Hunt series.
5. Toyota/Honda: Seven Super Treasure Hunts
Toyota and Honda kick off our list, tying for fifth place with seven Super Treasure Hunt items each. Honda made its grand entrance into the series in 2012 with the Spectraflame Blue, AEM-themed S2000. This model has seen listings go as high as $725 for the Short Card version, while more affordable options can be found around $150. The NSX followed suit, with two generations making their way into the series.
For Toyota, the ’10 Tundra opened up a new world of possibilities in 2013, but its market value remains relatively low, with prices ranging from $30 to $50. The Toyota 2000 GT, on the other hand, boasts a clean Spectraflame Red finish and black 10-spoke Real Riders wheels, with prices rarely exceeding $80. The MK IV Supra and ’82 Supra STH models also make appearances, with the latter reaching a market value of almost $400.
4. Dodge: 12 Super Treasure Hunts
An American manufacturer takes fourth place on our list, with 12 Super Treasure Hunts under their belt. Dodge made its debut in 2008 with the Dodge Challenger Funny Car. Although it may not have the most exciting livery, you can snag one for less than $30. The Dodge Viper, with its Spectraflame Orange finish and 5-Spoke Mag-Style Real Riders, has a slightly higher price range of $35 to $65.
The standout year for Dodge in the series was 2013, with five models released. The ’18 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon, in particular, reached Super Treasure Hunt status in 2019 and 2020, making it a rare find. The Spectraflame Yellow version can fetch prices as high as $300 for the Short Card variant.
3. Nissan: 13 Super Treasure Hunts
Taking third place is Nissan, with a total of 13 Super Treasure Hunts under its name. This Japanese manufacturer, including its Datsun models, proves to be a force to be reckoned with in the Hot Wheels world. The R32 GT-R made waves as the first Nissan model in the series, with a two-tone Spectraflame Copper/Metallic Silver paint job and 6-Spoke Bling wheels.
Unsurprisingly, Godzilla replicas come with a hefty price tag. Even the cheaper short card models can sell for around $280, while some listings reach as high as $650. The market value for several Nissan STH items has become insane, with some costing over $200 apiece. The 2020 STH version of the Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32) is a personal favorite and worth considering for any collector.
2. Ford: 36 Super Treasure Hunts
Ford claims the second spot on our list, with an impressive 36 Super Treasure Hunt variations throughout the years. As one of the most iconic American automakers, Ford has secured its place in the Hot Wheels series. In 2008, Ford made its first appearance with a Spectraflame Gold Mustang GT, which now holds a value of around $100.
The standout year for Ford in the series was 2013, with five models hitting the shelves. These included the ’72 Ford Gran Torino Sport, ’73 Ford Falcon XB, ’10 Ford Shelby GT500 Supersnake, ’07 Ford Mustang, and ’72 Ford Ranchero. The ’69 Shelby GT-500 is the latest addition to the Ford lineup and holds a price range of $45 to $95.
1. Chevrolet: 52 Super Treasure Hunts
Finally, we arrive at the king of Hot Wheels Super Treasure Hunts – Chevrolet. With a staggering 52 rare variations, Chevrolet reigns supreme. It’s no surprise, given that the Custom Camaro was the first-ever Hot Wheels car back in 1968. Chevrolet models have found immense popularity amongst collectors worldwide.
The ’69 Camaro Z28 was an early Super Treasure Hunt release, and despite being a ‘Tooned model, it holds significant value today. The ’55 Chevy Bel Air Gasser leads the pack in terms of price, with some listings reaching $500. Other highly sought-after models include the ’83 Chevy Silverado and the ’67 Camaro.
Given the vast number of Chevrolet releases in the Super Treasure Hunt series, the entire collection would undoubtedly cost a pretty penny. But for those with a passion for Chevy, it’s worth exploring the various valuable models available.
In conclusion, the Hot Wheels Super Treasure Hunt series showcases the diversity and excitement that comes with collecting these miniature cars. While many brands have made their mark, Toyota/Honda, Dodge, Nissan, Ford, and Chevrolet reign supreme in terms of representation in the series. As a collector, focusing on specific brands or castings that resonate with you will help create a collection that brings joy and satisfaction.
Remember, collecting Hot Wheels is much more than just acquiring every car. It’s a journey, a passion, and a shared love for the miniature automotive world. So, choose your battles wisely and enjoy the thrill of the hunt as you add rare Super Treasure Hunts to your collection. Happy collecting!