What Sells: Action Figures
Action figures are posable plastic figurines, usually of superheroes or characters from TV shows, movies, comics and even rock bands. They’re popular with children and adult collectors, and some rare figures can sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Top-selling brands include:
- G.I. Joe
- Masters of the Universe
- Micronauts
- Robotech
- Space 1999 and other science fiction TV shows
- Star Wars, especially vintage figures (pre-1990)
- Transformers (Generation 1)
The following websites have pictures, specifications and price guides for new and vintage action figures:
http://actionfigurechecklist.com
For information about commonly faked action figures, visit the website at http://www.toysrgus.com/images-fakes.html.
Look for these signs of wear and tear:
- Torn, creased or dog-eared cardboard backing
- Cracked, warped or yellowed/discolored plastic
- Scratches, scuffs, missing paint and other damage on loose figures
- Obvious signs of repackaging (tape, glue, staples, etc.)
Most action figures are worth much more if they’re still in their factory-sealed packaging. Some older figures are valuable even if they’ve been removed and played with (“loose”), so research the specific model.
Professional grading can increase the figure’s final sales price. Action Figure Authority will grade packaged and loose action figures. Visit the website at http://www.toygrader.com.
Include these details in your listing:
- Name of character
- Name of movie/comic/etc.
- Series or generation (if applicable)
- Age (if known)
- Grade
- Certificate of Authenticity (if included)
- Condition (e.g., Mint on Card)
Keep action figures in their original packaging in a well-ventilated room, away from children, pets, smoke and cooking odors. Don’t place items in direct sunlight or next to heating vents or air conditioners, either, since the temperature/humidity changes can cause damage.
Wrap each item individually in plastic to protect it from moisture, bubble wrap it and place it in a sturdy box in a bed of packing peanuts for shipment to the buyer.
