Adding
Adding to the Collection
Ever since action figures first hit mainstream pop culture in the late 50’s – early 60’s, they have been a subject of interest for millions of Americans young and old. Most action figure collectors start out young, collecting toys almost inadvertently, by yearning for the next issue of a series that all of their friends are trying to get their hands on. There is something about the feeling of completeness or being the only one with the toy on the block, that drives these young collectors to keep searching for the next big toy. However, all too often the search does not end once a series is completed, in fact, to the contrary that usually is only the beginning of the hobby. A hobby that will follow them through decades of searching, selling, buying and trading.
Not everyone starts their journey into the world of rare action figures as a child though. Many people begin collecting action figures as adults. There are multiple reasons why adults begin collecting action figures, or anything else for that matter. Usually it’s to find that “hidden treasure” of collectibles, and get lucky with a huge payday from an extremely rare and valuable action figure. While to others it’s just a hobby that brings feelings of nostalgia while collecting action figures they might have played with as a small child, or received as a gift from a special person in their life. Eventually, most people fall under both of these categories. Somewhere along the way, the search for hidden treasure will almost always turn into a hobby that will ultimately be characterized by one main activity…adding to the collection.
The advent of the Internet over the last 2 decades has brought the opportunity for collectors to expand their search for valuable and rare action figures beyond the boundaries of their local swap meets and garage sales. It is now easier than ever to add to your collection, without even having to leave the house. There are many places online to buy sell and trade action figures, one example is Ebay. In fact, finding the items is not the biggest problem anymore. The biggest problem most collectors have is correctly identifying rare action figures and accurately estimating action figure values. Many times people pay outrageous prices for a particular action figure just because they think it is a rare version, and then it turns out they bought a popular version that only looks like a rare version.
The most important thing to remember when adding to your collection is that knowledge is key. So do your research and try to create a network of friends that are also collectors, then you can refer to their expertise and make trades with them when necessary. Most of all though, don’t forget to have fun while doing it. If you’re trying to become successful at something you don’t enjoy, then your chances are slim, because sooner or later you will give up. Giving up isn’t something you would want to do is it? I didn’t think so, so get out there and add to your collection…and while you are at it you’ll probably meet some like minded people and have some good times, whether it be in your own neighborhood, in another country, or in the comfort of your own home on your computer. I hope this helped some action figure collectors get a better understanding of the essence of what it is to be a true collector, and maybe it even motivated you to make a few friends and learn some new things, that could possibly add to your collection and even your life. Because after all… life is simply a collection of memories that we add to every day!
