Toy collectors can look forward to another vast and varied sale by online auctioneer Philip Weiss Auctions early next month.   Bidding is currently underway on 558 items, ranging from dolls and play sets, to action figures and toy trains.

There is an array of affordable antique and vintage toys included in the sale, but keen investors should pay attention to a few of the more expensive lots - they could make an asset for the future.

Speeding ahead is a rare Pennsylvania GG-1 Locomotive built by Edwin P. Alexander.  Crafted in the 1930s, this original 'O' scale model train is hand-built.

Featuring hand-painted stripes and lettering, it is approximately 20 inches long.  Remarkably, it is thought to be one of only six in existence; as such, this incredible model has a grand estimate of $15,000-20,000.

'In a galaxy not far away' - affordable Star wars collectibles

Another notable lot features one of the most popular and enduring franchises of all time - Star Wars.  Its perennial popularity makes anything Star Wars-related highly collectible, and undoubtedly a great long-term investment.

Lot 1385 is a set of 12 original Star Wars figures dating from 1977, still sealed in their boxes.  The collection includes Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, Obi Wan Kenobi, C-3PO and R2-D2.

The figures and their casing are in generally excellent condition, and even include some original price labels.  This lot has an estimate of $4,000-6,000, which is relatively modest.  This could be a prime opportunity for an investor to grab a bargain and re-live their childhood - depending on their age of course.

Alongside these highlights are several lots potentially worth thousands of dollars, including a Fany Toddler Character doll with a top estimate of $3,000.  There are many other weird and wonderful toys - with some very affordable prices.  As we mentioned in December, 2010 was a very good year for toys - and 2011 looks set to continue that trend.