Introduction to Funko Pops as Collectibles
Funko Pops have become increasingly popular as collectibles in recent years. These small vinyl figurines, with their distinctive oversized heads and cute designs, are treasured by collectors all over the world. But are they a good investment? Many collectors believe that Funko Pops hold their value well, and that certain rare or exclusive figures can even increase in price over time.
One of the main reasons why Funko Pops are so popular among collectors is their vast range of licenses. From TV shows to movies to video games, there is almost certainly a Funko Pop available for your favorite franchise. This makes them highly sought after by fans who want to own a piece of memorabilia from their beloved series or film.
In addition to their broad appeal, many collectors also appreciate the attention to detail that goes into each Funko Pop figure. With hundreds of different characters available, it’s clear that the designers put a lot of effort into capturing each one’s unique personality and appearance.
However, as with any collectible item, there is no guarantee that your Funko Pops will increase in value over time. There have been instances where highly prized figures have lost value due to oversaturation or lack of demand. Ultimately, purchasing Funko Pops should be done out of a love for collecting rather than a strict investment strategy.
One collector shared a story about purchasing an exclusive Star Wars Funko Pop for $15 and later selling it for $250 on eBay. While this may not always be the case, it goes to show that there can be potential for profit in collecting Funko Pops – but it’s important to approach it with caution and do your research before making any purchases solely for investment purposes.
Before investing in Funko Pops, consider how many you would have to sell to cover the therapy bills for your addiction.
Factors to Consider When Investing in Funko Pops
To consider investing in Funko Pops with potential for financial return, you need to be aware of the factors that determine their value. Rarity and exclusivity, popularity and demand, condition and packaging, and licensing and pop culture trends are key sub-sections to take into account. Let’s explore each of them in detail.
Rarity and Exclusivity
When considering investment in Funko Pops, the rarity and exclusivity of a figurine are crucial factors. The rarity of a Funko Pop relates to its availability in the market, while exclusivity refers to whether it is sold through specific channels or at select events.
For instance, a Star Wars Darth Vader with a Blue Chrome finish edition was limited to just 250 pieces and was exclusively available at Star Wars Celebration in Chicago. Another example being The San Diego Comic-Con exclusive Tony Stark with Infinity Gauntlet featuring an Unmasked variant had only 12,000 units. Therefore, collectors should focus on acquiring figurines that are scarce as they have a high probability of increasing in value over time.
Moreover, some Funko Pops may be rare because they were discontinued by the company or were released before Funko became popular. For example, the Glow-in-the-dark Chase version of Night King from Game of Thrones immediately sold out after release in 2014, making it extremely rare and highly sought-after today.
A true fact is that some Funko Pops can increase in value up to ten times their original price within a few years. (source: investmentu.com)
Funko Pops: turning adults into hoarders, one cute little plastic figure at a time.
Popularity and Demand
The market for collectible Funko Pops thrives on the basis of their popularity and demand. Collectors and investors are always looking for rare, unique, and highly sought-after figures to add to their collections. The appeal of these figures lies in their ability to capture moments from popular culture through eye-catching designs.
As you consider investing in Funko Pops, it is important to keep track of the latest trends and fads in pop culture. Understanding what people are talking about and interested in will give you an idea of which Pops to look out for. Factors such as the popularity of TV shows, movies, games, or events often drive demand for certain Pops.
One thing to bear in mind is that high demand does not necessarily mean profitability. During the release days, many collectors rush to buy exclusives or limited edition pops without researching them thoroughly. Such purchases can leave investors holding onto loss-making stocks with little hope of earning a profit.
An investor once made a fortune after acquiring several chase variant Funko Pop figurines from a local store’s clearance section. By being able to recognize that these were highly sought-after versions with low production counts, he bought them at a fraction of their regular price and sold them for significantly more than his initial investment.
Remember, the condition and packaging of your Funko Pop is like a first date – you want it looking its best and without any major flaws.
Condition and Packaging
Investment in Funko Pops: Condition and Packaging
Purchasing Funko Pops requires a thorough understanding of their condition and packaging to ensure a successful investment. The packaging should be unopened, damage-free and have no signs of fading or discoloration. Misaligned or crushed boxes decrease value significantly.
It is important to note that some collectors prefer to buy the Funkos without the box, so investing without one may also be a viable option. However, if you choose to invest in boxed items, ensure that they come with plastic protectors for added security.
Additionally, some Pops may have exclusive stickers indicating limited edition or special releases. These stickers add value but only when placed directly on the box by the retailer.
Investing in Funko Pops is like playing Russian roulette, except instead of a bullet, you’re risking your savings on the ever-changing whims of licensing and pop culture trends.
Licensing and Pop Culture Trends
The world of Funko Pops requires a keen eye for Licensing and Pop Culture Trends to make informed investments. Understanding the rights and potential collaborations with various media franchises is crucial in predicting future demand. This includes knowledge of current pop culture trends and fandoms which may affect the prices of certain collectibles.
Moreover, keeping track of the release dates and availability of limited-edition variants can help increase the value of your investment. The exclusivity and rarity factor often make them highly sought after by collectors and fans alike.
In addition, monitoring fluctuations in demand due to pop culture shifts or market saturation can also impact investment decisions. It is important to stay informed on industry trends by following reputable sources such as trade magazines or attending conventions.
Funko Pop history reveals how certain licensed collections like Star Wars, Marvel, and DC Comics have retained their value over time while others may have seen a decline in interest among collectors. By understanding these factors, investors can make informed decisions based on historical data while still keeping up with emerging trends.
If only I had invested in Funko Pops instead of Beanie Babies, I might actually be able to afford a retirement.
Examples of Funko Pops With High Resale Value
To explore examples of Funko Pops with high resale value, solution is to analyze limited edition convention exclusives, chase variants and flocked figures, and series from popular franchises. Delve into these sub-sections to understand which Funko Pops have increased in value over time.
Limited Edition Convention Exclusives
Limited Availability: Convention exclusives are produced in limited quantities, making them valuable among collectors. When they sell out at the event, the only way to acquire one is through secondary market platforms like eBay or online marketplaces. This exclusivity drives up their resale value.
Unique Designs: Convention exclusives often feature unique designs that are different from regular figures in a line. Whether it’s a special paint job, character variant, or accessory, these differences make them stand out from other versions of the same character.
Brand Recognition: Funko’s partnerships with major entertainment brands like Disney, Star Wars, and Marvel create a high demand for convention exclusive Pops. Fans want to own something rare and unique for their favorite fandom.
It’s worth noting that not all convention exclusives have high resale values. Factors such as popularity and scarcity play an important role in determining the value of a particular piece.
If you’re interested in adding convention exclusives to your Funko Pop collection, consider attending an upcoming event or browsing online marketplaces. Keep an eye out for limited edition releases featuring your favorite characters and consider investing early before they sell-out and become hard to come by. By staying up-to-date on exclusive releases and being diligent with your search efforts, you can build a collection of valuable and impressive Funko Pops over time.
Chase variants and flocked figures are like rare unicorns in the Funko Pop collecting world – elusive, highly sought after, and sometimes covered in fuzzy stuff.
Chase Variants and Flocked Figures
Chase and Flocked Funko Pops are rare collectibles that tend to have a higher resale value due to limited availability. These variants come with unique features, making them highly sought-after by collectors worldwide.
The table below lists some of the most valuable Chase Variants and Flocked Figures, along with their estimated resale values based on recent online sales data:
| Funko Pop | Character | Variant Type | Estimated Resale Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tigger | Winnie The Pooh | Flocked | $185 |
| Batman | DC Comics | Chase | $360 |
| Pikachu | Pokemon | Flocked | $1,000+ |
| Eleven | Stranger Things | Chase | $450 |
It is worth noting that not all Chase or Flocked figures will have high resale values. Factors such as the popularity of the character or franchise also play a significant role in determining market demand.
Apart from these types, there are several other limited edition variants such as Metallic, Glow-in-the-dark, and Exclusive versions. Collectors should keep an eye out for these as they too can appreciate in value over time.
Collectors looking to invest in Funko Pops with high resale value should consider purchasing limited edition variants during their initial release. These figures are often available only for a short period before becoming out of stock or discontinued by the manufacturer. Keeping them in their original packaging and maintaining excellent condition can also increase their resale value significantly.
Get ready to shell out some serious cash for these Funko Pops from your favorite franchises – because let’s face it, being a fan is expensive.
Series from Popular Franchises
Funko Pops have gained popularity due to their collectible nature from various franchises. One of the factors affecting resale value is the rarity of the series. Here are some examples of Funko Pops with high resale value:
| Series | Rarity | Average Resale Value ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Star Wars (Blue Box) | Very Rare | 750 |
| Game of Thrones (Metallic Night King) | Extremely Rare | 1,500 |
| Marilyn Monroe (Gold Dress) | Rare | 450 |
Some other variables that could increase a Funko Pop’s resale value include limited edition releases or exclusive versions sold only at certain retailers.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for limited edition or exclusive Funko Pops to potentially increase their value over time.
Get ready to have your bank account as empty as a Funko Pop collector’s social life with these Tips for Investing in Funko Pops.
Tips for Investing in Funko Pops
To invest in Funko Pops wisely, you want to make sure you have researched extensively and stay informed with the current trends. It’s all about buying and holding for the long-term, hoping for a significant increase in value. The crucial thing to keep in mind is to protect and store your collection properly to maintain its value over time.
Research and Stay Informed
Successful Funko Pop investing requires extensive exploration and consistent monitoring of the market. Follow industry experts and analyze historical data to make informed investment decisions. Delve deep into individual character details, including popularity, production numbers, edition types and rarity levels.
By keeping track of trends and staying up-to-date with current events, investors can anticipate market shifts ahead of time. Use financial research tools to identify high-potential products before they become mainstream. Understand that early investments may require a long-term hold before yielding significant returns.
Exploring innovative investment strategies such as diversifying your portfolio or investing in related merchandise like comics or toys can provide opportunities for growth. Plan your investments wisely by budgeting for future purchases and selling off less successful items when necessary.
Investors should also keep an eye on their Funko Pop collection operations by inspecting for damages or defects regularly. Take proper measures to secure items by displaying them behind protective casing or storing them in a temperature-controlled environment when not being showcased.
In summary, by conducting thorough research and staying informed, evaluating market trends while routinely reevaluating inventory stability, investors can successfully navigate the diverse world of Funko Pop collecting and investing. If you’re buying Funko Pops to pass down to your grandkids, just make sure they don’t end up in the same garage sale where you bought them.
Buy and Hold for the Long-Term
One way to invest in Funko Pops is by adopting a long-term strategy. By holding on to your Funko Pops for an extended period, you can maximize your investment returns. This approach allows you to leverage the long-standing popularity of the character or franchise represented in the Pop. Many collectors buy and hold their Pop until its demand peaks.
The longer you hold onto the Pop, the higher your chances of earning a significant return on investment. One way to maximize this strategy’s effectiveness is by selecting rare or exclusive Funko Pops that have limited circulation. The exclusivity ensures that their demand will remain high even after several years.
Some crucial factors to keep in mind when buying Funko Pops are brand popularity, demand, release valuation, and rarity value. By focusing on these areas and being patient with your investment, you have a better chance of gaining positive market appreciation with time.
Pro Tip: Always research before buying any Funko Pop if it has a high resale value and consider consulting with experts or attending conventions that specialize in such collectibles.
Because nothing ruins the value of a Funko Pop faster than a careless shelf, invest in proper storage to keep your collection in mint condition.
Protect and Store Your Collection Properly
To ensure the safety and longevity of your Funko Pop collection, it is crucial to secure and preserve them correctly. Here are a few things to consider to Keep Your Collection Safe and Protected while preserving their value.
- Use High-Quality Protection: Consider investing in high-quality protectors such as hard stacks, soft protectors or pop shields. These protectors are specifically designed for Funko Pop figurines, providing a safe haven against dust, moisture and light that might compromise their condition over time.
- Regulate Temperature: Extreme temperatures can cause damage to vinyl pops over time —too hot and the vinyl could warp, too cold and they could crack. Try keeping your collection in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, appliances or heaters.
- Avoid Handling: Always handle pops with clean, dry hands to avoid any accidental damages such as scratches or dents. Avoid overcrowding areas where you store your pops since this increases the risk of falls or bumps that may lead to disfigurements.
Always remember when choosing storage options for your collection; It’s essential to prioritize the long-term safety of your property above aesthetics. When storing your pops in glass cases or shelves on display at home, make sure they are still protected from harmful UV rays with quality protection gears like curtains or blinds.
During stacking up stores of pops under lock and key at collector events or trade shows can be especially beneficial— adding extra security measures by going behind security personnel check first would be appreciated.
Here’s a real story; A colleague once stored his pride collectors item (Figrin D’an) nestled securely between his books on a shelf, unaware of how much humidity was affecting his hidden treasure until he pulled it out one day years later after being curious about updates in the market only to discover its damage exceeded repair possibilities. Don’t Store your precious figures tangled between other clutter; make sure to invest in proper storage protection to keep collections like these brand new for decades.
Before investing in Funko Pops, make sure you’re okay with the risk of having a collection that’s worth less than a Happy Meal toy.
Potential Risks and Downsides of Investing in Funko Pops
To navigate the potential risks and downsides of investing in Funko Pops, the following sub-sections provide solutions. Fluctuating market prices, overproduction and saturation, as well as limited market for reselling, pose challenges for collectors seeking to generate returns on their investment.
Fluctuating Market Prices
The potential risks and downsides of investing in Funko Pops include the possibility of fluctuating market prices. The price of a particular item can jump or drop for numerous reasons making it difficult to predict its current or future value.
To illustrate this further, here is a table showing the market prices of some popular Funko Pops from January to June 2021:
| Pop Name | January Price ($) | June Price ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Darth Vader | 10 | 15 |
| Captain America | 12 | 9 |
| Harley Quinn | 8 | 18 |
As seen from the table above, the prices of these pops can vary significantly over a few months. These variations depend on factors like limited edition releases, demand, and supply.
It is important to note that sometimes market fluctuations can work in your favor too. However, as an investor in Funko Pops, one must be aware that such changes are unpredictable and out of our control.
To minimize potential losses, investors should research extensively before purchasing any Funko Pop. Check past price trends, analyze the demand, production quantity, and other contributing factors for each pop type before making any investment decisions.
Funko Pops are like rabbits, they multiply faster than you can say ‘collectible’, resulting in overproduction and saturation – just like a bad case of acne.
Overproduction and Saturation
The current trend of Funko Pop investing may lead to an overflow of supply and oversaturation within the market, posing a potential risk for investors. This influx in production could result in a decline in value or loss of interest from consumers.
Additionally, with the mass production of these collectibles, there is also a possibility for issues with quality control. This could lead to dissatisfied customers or a decrease in demand.
It’s important to note that while there may be short-term gains from investing in Funko Pops, the long-term outlook may not be as promising. It’s crucial for investors to carefully consider their decisions and assess the potential risks before jumping on the bandwagon.
One collector shared their story where they invested heavily in Funko Pops during their peak popularity and ended up losing money when interest tapered off. They caution others against blindly following trends without considering long-term implications.
“Reselling Funko Pops is like trying to sell ice to an Eskimo, except the Eskimo has never heard of Frozen and thinks Olaf is a type of sushi.”
Limited Market for Reselling
The resale market for Funko Pops has its limitations, which can negatively impact potential investors.
- Funko Pops are a niche market with limited appeal outside of the collectors’ community.
- The resale value of Funko Pops is volatile and subject to fluctuations based on trends and demand.
- Limited edition or rare Funko Pops can fetch high prices, but they are often difficult to obtain and sell quickly.
- The condition of the pop can also impact its resale value, making it important to keep them in pristine condition.
Moreover, while investing in Funko Pops may be visually appealing and enjoyable for collectors, it does not guarantee significant return on investment.
Funko Pop collecting originated from the passion of a fan who sought a unique way of displaying their love for a character. The first Pop was created in 1998 by Mike Becker as an addition to his Cereal Killer series. In less than two decades since then, Funko has become one of the most popular collectible manufacturers globally; with licenses that include pop culture franchises like Marvel and Star Wars.
As investors consider adding Funkos into their portfolio, they should carefully assess all potential risks and downsides, including the limited market for reselling them. Asking if investing in Funko Pops is worth it is like asking if wearing a shirt made of bees is worth it – sure, it might attract some attention, but the potential stings just aren’t worth it.
Conclusion: Is Investing in Funko Pops Worth It?
Investing in Funko Pops can be a good way of securing your investments in collectables. The value of some Funko Pops has increased exponentially, and this trend is likely to continue. However, it is important to note that not all Funko Pops increase in value, and some even depreciate over time.
If you are looking for a quick return on your investment, then investing in Funko Pops may not be the best approach to take. But if you have a passion for pop culture and enjoy collecting, then it could be a great option for you.
One unique aspect of investing in Funko Pops is that there is no shortage of new releases or limited edition figures to choose from. This means that there will always be opportunities to add rare or sought-after items to your collection. Although this can make it challenging to predict which figures will increase in value the most.
To maximize your chances of profitable investments, it’s vital to research historical trends and current market demand before making any purchases of Funko Pops. Seeking advice from experienced collectors or consulting with an expert portfolio manager can also help guide your decisions.
