Whether from comics, fiction, movies, or history, there’s something about collectibles that many find irresistible. Figures and figurines are fun to display, show off, and, of course, collect.  Some can also be highly valuable. Certain factors can increase their value tremendously, often many times their purchase price. 

Of course, figuring out the difference between a valuable figure and one that’s not is the real trick. To help, NSA Storage created this guide on how to tell if your figures and figurines are valuable.

How to Tell if Your Figures and Figurines are Valuable

Figures and Figurines are Not the Same

Although their names are similar, figures and figurines have some noticeable differences. They’re simple distinctions, but will mean a lot as you try to determine their value.

Here’s how to tell the difference between a figure and figurine:

FIGURES

• Are usually poseable, with joints at the shoulders, neck, hips, and more.
• Can be made for both play and display.
• Typically based on IPs and franchises, like Star Wars, Marvel, GI Joe, He Man, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), and others.
• Mostly made from plastic, with some having removable clothes and accessories.

Examples of Figures

• GI Joe
• Marvel superheroes
• MEGO action figures
• TMNT figures

The term “figure” comes from “action figure,” a term created for GI Joe in 1964. GI Joe was a fully articulated toy soldier with removable clothing and many accessories he could hold in his hands.

FIGURINES

• Typically have no joints and no poseability.
• Are generally made for display.
• Created from ceramic or wood.
• Typically do not have removable clothes or accessories.

Examples of Figurines

• Hummel
• Funko Pop
• Lladro

What Makes a Figure or Figurine Valuable?

There are certain factors that often make one figure or figurine more valuable than another. Some of them are linked to the collectible itself, but value is often driven by demand regardless of other factors.

For example, the original, 12” GI Joe from Hasbro was the first “action figure” of its kind, and has a strong fan base. Millions of boys had GI Joe figures in the 1960s and 1970s, increasing the figure’s nostalgia factor significantly. GI Joe figures are also becoming more rare every year, and all of these factors combined have driven values through the roof. A rare, sealed GI Joe figure can fetch thousands of dollars—and in rare cases, even higher—at auction.

Another good example is a Funko figurine that’s also fetching a high price but was created much more recently. The item: Freddy Funko as Iron Man (Metallic version), was sold at a comic convention in 2019. It had an ultra-low production run as well as crossover appeal to the Marvel superhero universe. Because of those circumstances, it skyrocketed in demand and today sells for thousands of dollars.

Below are the most important factors and circumstances that can drive up the value of a figure or figurine:

• Age — In most cases, the older a piece, the more valuable it will be if it’s in good condition. 
• Rarity — Items with very low production runs are typically more valuable. Convention exclusives and “limited editions” are great examples.
• Condition — The better the condition of any collectible, the higher the value. 
• Packaging — An item in its original packaging, especially if still sealed, can greatly increase its value .
• Brand — Well-known or popular brands can bring more value. Hummel is a great example.
• Cultural Reference — Items tied to popular movies, shows, or historical moments often carry higher value.
• Fan Demand — Arguably the hardest factor to predict. Strong demand for a figure or figurine can quickly drive up its price.

How To Tell if a Figure or Figurine is Valuable

If you want to identify valuable figures in your collection—or ones you’re thinking about buying—the tips below will help.

Check the Condition

• Mint in Box (MIB) — New, nearly perfect condition.  ($$$$)
• Near Mint — Great condition with minor flaws. ($$$)
• Good — Item has visible wear but no major damage. ($$)
• Poor — Damaged items with missing parts or pieces. ($)

Look for Limited Edition or Exclusive Markings

• Usually on the bottom of a figurine or the bottom or back of a figure.
• Look for a production number and total quantity (for example, ‘23/300’) Lower production numbers often lead to higher value.
• Some items will come with a card or unique packaging stating their “limited edition” or “exclusive” status.

Do Your Research

• Check eBay and online retailers for completed (“sold”) sale prices.
• Check reference books, websites, and online information portals for relevant data.
• Ask for help in collector clubs or groups on Facebook and Reddit.

5 Questions to Answer

1. Is it vintage or antique? 
2. What is the condition?
3. Does it come with the original packaging?
4. Which brand made it?
5. Is it selling online, and at what price? (Again, check “sold” listings.)

If you follow these tips and answer the 5 questions, spotting valuable figures and estimating their true worth becomes much easier.

How to Store Figures and Figurines Safely

Storing valuable figures and figurines properly isn’t difficult, but it is extremely important, especially if you want to keep them in mint condition. Below are a few simple storage tips that can help protect your collection and preserve its value:

• Store your items or collection in a place that’s cool, very dry, and dark.
• Never store items in direct sunlight, which can cause major fading and damage.
• Use the correct padding and protective materials. Small bubble wrap is a good choice for most items.
• Don’t stack boxes too high, and place heavy boxes on the bottom.
• For large, valuable collections, consider using a climate-controlled storage unit to prevent damage from heat or humidity.

Wherever you store them, be sure to keep your figures and figurines in their original packaging. Taking these precautions now will go far towards protecting your collection, and its value, for many years.

NSA Storage Can Keep Your Collection Safe

If you need to store a collection of figures, figurines, or other collectibles, NSA Storage can help. Our safe, clean storage units are used to store collections every day, all over the USA.

You can reserve a storage unit online and start using it right away to store, organize, and enjoy your collection. We also offer climate controlled storage for larger, valuable collections.