This Disney Fan’s Mickey Ear Collection Is Worth More Than Most Cars!
Disney fans are known for their passion, but some take it to a whole new level. When it comes to merchandise, there’s one item that stands above the rest in terms of both popularity and significance: Mickey ears. With so many different styles, designs, and limited-edition releases, it’s no surprise that some Disney enthusiasts have developed an obsession with collecting these headbands.
For one fan, her journey with Mickey ears has evolved into a priceless treasure trove worth thousands.
Related: Tired of the Usual? Here Are Minnie Ears You WON’T Find at Disney Parks!
The story behind Karrie Goelz’s incredible Mickey ear collection is not one of mere acquisition—it’s a tale of passion, nostalgia, and a growing connection with the Disney community. It all began more than a decade ago, during a holiday trip to Walt Disney World. Karrie had her eye on a specific pair of ears, but much to her disappointment, they were sold out.
This moment of frustration sparked what would become an obsession. She began to see each trip to the park as an opportunity to find the next perfect pair of Mickey ears.
By 2012, after her first experience with the elusive Mickey ears, Karrie was determined to keep looking. Every Disney trip, she searched high and low for unique pairs to tie into the memories of her magical vacations.
Related: Must Have Minnie Ears For Your Next Disney Vacation!
Over time, her collection grew exponentially, and what started as a small collection soon blossomed into something much more substantial.
In 2018, Karrie made a life-changing move from Indiana to Orlando, Florida. Living so close to Walt Disney World meant more frequent visits, which only fueled her growing collection. Her proximity to the parks allowed her to snap up in-park ear releases and exclusive drops.
For Karrie, it wasn’t just about the ears—it was about the memories each one represented.
Related: Guest Issues a Public Service Announcement for Fellow Guests Wearing Disney Ears
What began as a handful of ears soon evolved into an impressive collection of over 1,700 pairs. The value of her collection has skyrocketed, now worth more than $50,000.
Karrie then decided to share her collection and love of Mickey ears with the world. She began an Instagram account, which now has more than 27,000 followers!
Talking about her collection with PEOPLE, Karrie said:
“I had no idea how many other collectors [are] out there, too,” Goelz says. “During the pandemic, when people were looking for ways to keep Disney magic in their lives, I started sharing more, not just about ears, but about all the new releases. That’s when I really saw how many people were eager to connect.”
Goelz now talks with collectors across the globe from the U.S. to Brazil to Germany. Some she messages daily. “One of my local friends — we call each other ‘ear sisters’ — I just saw her yesterday,” she says. “It’s been amazing to build that kind of community.”
While most of Karrie’s collection is made up of ears that average around $40 each, she also boasts some high-value pairs. Among her prized possessions are the $600 Mickey ears from Disney’s collaboration with Heidi Klum and the $750 ears created to commemorate Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary. These rare, limited-edition pieces represent the heart of her collection, but it’s the entire collection that holds a special place in her heart.
Today, Karrie is still on the hunt for new pairs of Mickey ears. The excitement of discovering a new release never gets old, and with Disneyland Resort currently celebrating its 70th anniversary, Karrie has added several commemorative ears to her collection. She’s eagerly awaiting the next exclusive releases and continues to treasure each pair that adds to the rich tapestry of memories she’s created over the years.
Do you love collecting Disney merchandise? Do you have a favorite pair of Mickey ears or a specific item that ties into your Disney memories? We’d love to hear about it! Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below. Maybe you’ll find your “ear family” here as well!
