11 Common Mistakes Every Action Figure Collector Should Avoid

Collecting action figures can be an exciting and rewarding hobby, but it’s easy to make mistakes that could lead to damaged collectibles or wasted money. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, being mindful of certain missteps can help you protect your investment and make the most of your collection. From proper storage to staying informed about market trends, avoiding common errors ensures that your action figures remain in top condition and retain their value over time.

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Ignoring Packaging Preservation

One of the biggest mistakes that collectors make is neglecting the packaging of their action figures. While the figures themselves are important, the packaging can significantly influence their long-term value. Original packaging, especially for limited edition or rare items, is highly sought after by collectors. Even minor damage, such as creases, dents, or tape marks, can reduce a figure’s market value considerably. This is especially true for figures from well-known brands like Hot Toys or Funko, where pristine packaging is almost as valuable as the figure inside.

Many collectors fail to preserve the packaging because they are more focused on the figure itself. However, for those who intend to eventually resell or trade their figures, keeping the packaging in excellent condition is essential. Simple steps, like storing figures in protective boxes or display cases, can make a significant difference in maintaining both the packaging and the figure’s overall condition.

Overlooking Storage Conditions

Improper storage can lead to significant damage over time, making this one of the most preventable mistakes a collector can make. Exposure to sunlight can cause fading, especially on figures with painted details, while humidity can lead to rust on metal parts or mold on accessories. Heat can warp the plastic, compromising the figure’s joints and details. If figures are not stored properly, collectors risk losing not only the figure’s aesthetic appeal but also its financial value.

The ideal storage conditions for action figures involve keeping them in a climate-controlled environment. A display case or shelves with UV-protective covers can help prevent damage from light. Additionally, placing the figures in a space with consistent temperature and humidity will prevent common issues like discoloration or cracking, ensuring the collection remains in the best possible condition.

Purchasing Figures Without Researching Market Value

A common mistake for many collectors, especially beginners, is purchasing action figures without thoroughly researching their market value. Impulsive buying can lead to overpaying for figures that are readily available elsewhere for a lower price. Additionally, some figures may appear rare but are mass-produced or easy to find. Without proper research, a collector might also fail to recognize the true rarity of a figure, which could lead to overestimating its value.

Before making a purchase, it is crucial to check online marketplaces and specialized forums to understand the going price for a particular figure. Pay attention to the figure’s condition, rarity, and demand in the market. This will not only prevent overspending but also ensure the collector is making an informed investment in their collection.

Not Keeping Figures Clean

Dust and dirt can accumulate on action figures, especially if they are displayed without protection. Over time, this buildup can cause damage, such as discoloration or a loss of fine detail, especially on delicate accessories like faces, hands, and weapons. Figures displayed for extended periods without cleaning can develop permanent stains or surface damage that significantly reduces their value.

To avoid this, collectors should regularly clean their figures. Using a microfiber cloth or a soft brush can help remove dust without damaging the paint or details. For figures with more intricate parts, such as joints or accessories, a gentle cleaning solution may be needed to keep them in top condition. By regularly cleaning figures, collectors ensure that their collection remains to look as good as new for years to come.

Mixing Different Figure Lines

Mixing figures from different lines or manufacturers can detract from the overall appeal of a collection. While it may seem like an easy way to expand a display, combining figures with varying scales, designs, and aesthetics can lead to an unappealing or mismatched collection. This can reduce the visual cohesion and impact of the display, especially for those who enjoy organizing their figures by theme or brand.

Keeping figures within their respective lines or series is essential for maintaining a cohesive collection. Not only does it make the display look better, but it also ensures that each figure is presented in its intended context. If space or organization is an issue, collectors can use separate shelves or display cases to group different lines together in a way that still keeps them organized and visually appealing.

Ignoring the Condition of Joints

When collecting action figures, particularly used ones, checking the condition of the joints is critical. Loose or stiff joints can greatly affect a figure’s posing ability, making it harder to display or play with. Over time, joints can wear out or break, especially if a figure has been handled frequently. In some cases, figures with damaged joints can lose their functionality, making them less enjoyable to display or collect.

Before purchasing a figure, collectors should carefully inspect the joints for any signs of wear or loosening. If any parts appear to be damaged, it might be possible to fix them with some simple repairs or replacement parts. Ensuring that the joints are in good condition will allow collectors to fully enjoy their figures without worrying about long-term damage.

Buying Figures on Impulse

Impulse buying is a mistake many collectors make, especially when they come across a new release or a figure that seems rare. While it’s easy to get excited and make a quick purchase, this often leads to regret later on. Impulse buys can result in acquiring figures that do not fit well with the rest of the collection or end up being overvalued.

It is essential to take a step back and assess whether a figure truly fits into your collection and if it is worth the investment. Researching the figure’s availability, price history, and market demand can help collectors avoid making hasty decisions. Taking time before purchasing ensures that every addition to the collection is a worthwhile one.

Failing to Insure Valuable Figures

Many collectors overlook the importance of insuring their valuable figures. Whether it’s a rare limited edition or a figure in mint condition, some action figures can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If something happens to them, whether it’s damage, theft, or an accident, without proper insurance, collectors may lose their investment entirely.

To prevent this, it’s important to consider insuring high-value items in your collection. Specialized insurance policies for collectibles can provide peace of mind, protecting against loss or damage. By doing so, collectors can enjoy their figures without worrying about potential risks to their collection’s value.

Not Keeping Track of Purchases

Another mistake collectors make is failing to track their purchases and the current value of their collection. It’s easy to lose track of what has been bought and for how much, especially over the years. Without a record of these details, collectors may struggle to assess the true value of their collection or recognize when it’s time to sell or trade figures.

By keeping a detailed inventory of all action figures, including purchase prices, conditions, and any relevant details such as packaging or rarity, collectors can better manage their investments. This practice also helps when it comes to ensuring your collection, as having documentation on hand can make the process much smoother.

Overlooking the Importance of Displaying Figures Properly

Improper display can lead to issues such as dust buildup, scratches, and even damage from accidental falls. Displaying action figures without proper stands or cases can cause them to topple, potentially breaking delicate parts. Overcrowding a shelf can also result in the figures rubbing against each other, causing wear and tear.

Investing in proper display cases or stands is crucial for preserving the condition of the figures. These protective enclosures not only keep figures safe from damage but also allow collectors to showcase their collections in a visually pleasing way. A well-organized and safely displayed collection can enhance the enjoyment of the hobby and protect figures for years to come.

Neglecting to Maintain Accessories

Many action figures come with small accessories such as weapons, heads, or hands that can easily be misplaced or damaged. Failing to properly store and care for these accessories can result in incomplete figures that lose their value. Collectors often underestimate the importance of keeping track of these items, but a missing accessory can significantly lower the value of a collectible.

To prevent this, always keep accessories in a safe and organized place. It’s a good idea to store accessories in small bags or boxes to prevent them from getting lost or damaged. Ensuring that each figure is complete with all its accessories will not only keep the collection intact but will also help preserve the figure’s value in the long term.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.