1. Myth: Items sold as “collectibles” have more value than play toys.
Fact: Often items sold as collectibles have been treated with care and thus more are available in early markets- turn around is much longer to see value increase unless it is in the fury of the collectible. Ex. Beanie babies sold for $$$ in the heyday now worth original retail if that.
2.Myth: The “hot” toy of today will be the most valuable in the future!
This is not necessary true, often times change as well as what is valued. Granted these toys will appeal to the generation that remembers them as “hot” but not always the next generations. How many were produced in their heyday will also determine value. If it is a toy that takes abuse versus one that sits on a shelf will also contribute to value. Or if technology moves on!
3. Myth: “Collectible” is printed all over box so it must have value!
Never base your purchase on the hype printed on box or ads! Follow what you love and enjoy and hope that it’s value will maintain if not increase! In an article in the Chicago Tribune this doll sold for $1050 today it is listed on eBay in box for $10.99!!!
4. Myth: Quantity over quality is what is valued in a collection.
Again things that are made in HUGE quantities will mean there are more to go around and if they all hit the resale market (as doll above) at about same time the value will plummet…you will have to hang on longer…buy what you love.
5. Myth: What is a “Collectible” are determined by manufacturers.
More often than not an item will become a collectible based on consumer demand than a manufacturer labeling an item as a “Collectible”. Anything can be a collectible with values determined by demand.
6. Myth: Only figurines can be a “Collectible”
Figurines often are perceived are called a Collectible for they are marketed to look at more than play with and usually have many variations in a theme to collect. But anything can be a collection.. 3 coins, 3 buttons, 3 bottle caps could be 3 collections or 1 collection of round flat objects.
7. Myth:All collectible dolls increase in value.
Actually, most collectible dolls don’t increase in value, an they certainly don’t within a few years of purchase. Sure, there are many exceptions to this—many relatively recent Himstedt, Kish, Tonner and other modern dolls do sell for more than retail a few years after issue. But, most don’t. That leads to one of the greatest truths about doll collecting: buy what you love, and buy to enjoy your dolls. Perhaps your dolls will increase in value over time, but perhaps they won’t. About.com
8. Myth: If it is old it is valuable.
Often if there is no demand for the item there is no current value. If the item is in poor condition this can effect it’s value as well. Sometimes an old toy will have more sentimental value than dollar value.
9. Myth: If it is on a internet auction it must be valuable.
Thou I find the online auctions as a wonderful resource you still need to be wary and no what you are pursuing. They are some very good options online and extremely valuable resource but be careful for many auctions use key words or fraudulent buzz words to draw you in …Frozen Charlotte vs Penny Doll…not the same thing.
10. Myth: Only the rich can collect!
Since anything can be collected this is ridiculous! Start your collection with something you love and can afford and then add to it as you can! Your childhood toys are always a great start. Try to buy items in good condition even if you are buying inexpensive!
