The first version of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers was introduced on August 28, 1990. Popularity soared, with many kids watching the show and buying the toys and cards that went along with it. As of 2023, the popular series has 29 seasons and 21 different versions of the series that have been produced over the years. It remains a popular fixture with children of all ages.
This tv series produced a series of toys, action figures, clothing, and even cards. The trading card in particular has come to grow in value over the years, and has become a popular collectible item. These cards have been released in multiple series and sets, and some of the cards are now selling for a pretty penny.
If you own Power Rangers Trading Cards, you may be wondering if yours hold any value. What makes a card valuable? Which card is the most rare? How can you tell if you have a valuable card? Read on to learn the answers to all your burning questions!
Power Rangers
What sets do these Power Ranger cards come in?
These popular cards come in a variety of different sets. Here are some to keep an eye out for:
Series 1: These were first released in 1994 and had 72 cards per set. In each pack, there was one card with foil borders. In order to complete this set, you needed to obtain all of the standard cards plus all of the foil ones. Each card pack came with a POG as well.
Series 2: Also released in 1994, this series had 72 cards and a foil set, similar to series 1. This series was a continuation of the first series, so the cards began on #73. The set contained 12 “Magic Morpher” cards; two of these cards came with each box of cards.
The New Season: Released in 1994, this set also contained 72 cards, but they started from #1. The first release cards had no borders and were printed on nicer stock than the other sets. This set contained seven chase cards, which had a plastic cover. They were packed with eight cards per pack, one foil card, and one bonus card featuring one of the three new rangers.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie: Released by Fleer in 1995, this set consisted of 150 cards, and no foil cards. They were printed on a thick card stock. The set contains three types of chase cards, of which there were 24 different cards, and came one per pack.
Power Rangers Turbo: This set was sold exclusively at Kmart. It contained 60 cards (50 standard and 10 foil) which were packed at random. They came eight cards to a pack.
Power Rangers Dino Thunder: This set was divided into seven groups, and each group has one regular card, one gold card, and one hologram card.
What makes a card more valuable?
There are two factors that generally affect their value: scarcity and condition.
A card that is in good condition (crisp edges, good printing, etc.) will be worth more. If you are a serious collector or are selling your cards, you may want to consider having them professionally graded.
Rarity also affects the value of a card. An example is the White Ranger, which is a rare Power Rangers card. A rare card that is hard to find is worth more.
How to determine the value of my cards?
Do Your Research
You’ll want to conduct some research to determine which are the most valuable. A good action to take is to check the individual card online and see what it has been selling for on auction sites, such as eBay.
Consider the Historical Significance
There are certain items in a pack that are going to be worth more due to significance. An example of this is the White Ranger card, which is usually more rare and was the most popular ranger when the sets were originally released.
Get Your Card Appraised by Professionals
When in doubt, you can always seek out a professional appraisal to see what your card is worth.
FAQs
Are all Power Rangers trading cards valuable?
Not all cards are super valuable. Popular or rare cards are more valuable. Be sure to check online to see what price your cards are selling for!
What is the most valuable Power Rangers card?
The White Ranger card is generally considered the most valuable card.
Are Power Rangers trading cards a good investment?
They can be a good investment, but it’s important that you do your due diligence. Research the cards to see which are most valuable and keep them in excellent condition.
The value of Blastoise cards from the Pokémon Trading Card Game in general can fit into a wide range of prices, with the most valuable Blastoise cards selling for around $40,000 and the less valuable Blastoise cards coming in at just $10. If you own a Blastoise Pokémon card, there’s a high likelihood that you have something valuable in your possession.
Blastoise is an original generation 1 Pokémon, and he is considered one of the most popular Pokémon in existence. Recently in 2021, a very special Blastoise card sold for a whopping $360,00 at auction. This was the Blastoise Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Hologram Card.
What makes this particular card so valuable? Why are collectibles so interested in this card? Read on to learn more about this card, where it’s value stems from, it’s history, and more.
Blastoise Pokémon Card
What is so special about this Blastoise card?
This special card looks strikingly similar to the base set Blastoise, with a few important distinctions. The corners are square, the image of Blastoise is different, and the reverse side of the card is entirely blank. It is believed that only two of these cards were printed, which is why collectors jumped at the chance to own one when it was auctioned off.
What is the value of this Blastoise card?
This special Blastoise card sold at auction for $360,000, almost tying with the record for the most ever paid for a Pokémon card.
What makes this Blastoise card so rare?
This card was a presentation card, printed for the purpose of demonstrating what an English Pokémon card should look like. Only two of these cards were printed, making them extremely rare. To boot, the location of the second card is unknown, so there is only one of these cards whose location is known.
What is the history behind this rare card?
This card was originally printed by Wizards of the Coast in 1998, and just two cards were printed. The reason why only two of these cards were printed is because they were created for the purpose of demonstrating what an English Pokémon card would look like. The location of the second blank card is currently unknown.
How can I tell if a rare Pokémon card is real?
First, pay careful attention to the edges of your Pokémon cards. Fake cards often look like they have been punched right out of a sheet of cardboard. You may notice a series of small white dots or pieces of fluff around the edges of your card.
Second, pay close attention to the fonts. Pokémon cards use consistent fonts throughout their collection, so if the font varies from that on your other Pokémon cards, that could be a red flag. Also, be on the lookout for spelling mistakes.
Keep an eye on the energy symbols located in the corners of the Pokémon cards. On a fake card, these can be printed too large or too small, or they may look a little distorted. You can also take a look at the back of the card. A fake card often uses just one shade of blue throughout, but a genuine card uses several different shades of blue.
Finally, when the Pokémon cards are fresh from the pack, pay attention to their condition. Cards straight from the Pokémon factory should be in excellent condition, while fake cards are often damaged.
Blastoise Pokémon Card
What is the best way to store rare Pokémon cards?
When it comes to storing your Blastoise cards – and any card from the Pokemon Trading Card Game – there are many options for keeping them safe. Read on to learn more about each option and decide which is best for you!
Penny Sleeves
Penny sleeves are thin sleeves made of plastic, and your collectible trading cards simply slip in through the top opening. They offer minimal protection, so many people double these up for extra security.
Toploaders
Toploaders are similar to penny sleeves, except that they are made of a more rigid plastic. This storage option helps protect corners and prevent bending and scratches to your cards.
Binders
You can buy a binder with plastic sleeves specifically made for storing cards. This can be great for organizing a large collection of cards and keeping them in order.
Card Tins
Finally, you can use card tins to protect your cards. Many cards from the Pokemon Trading Card Game come in collectible tins that can be repurposed for storage.
FAQs
How much did the Blastoise Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Hologram Card card sell for?
This rare card sold at auction for $360,000. This almost tied with the record for the most ever paid for a Pokémon card.
How much are the rarest and most valuable Blastoise cards?
The rarer cards can sell for up to $40,000, with the very rarest card coming in at $360,000.
Zach first became interested in baseball cards at age seven, when he received a pack of them at a birthday party. His father realized that there was a money-making opportunity in collecting, so they became lifelong collectors after that. It started with all kinds of baseball memorabilia, autographs, cards from all sports, figures, and more – anything sports-related. Zach realized he had become a collector as a young boy, when he started negotiating with adults at baseball card shows.
Today Zach’s focus is mainly on baseball cards, especially those featuring legend Jackie Robinson. He has one of almost every vintage Jackie Robinson card available. Many of these cards have less than 50 known copies available, and they are cards that no one has seen before. Zach’s collection has all been graded by the same company, and all the cards have been graded 1 (poor). His goal is to acquire as many cards as he can. “I’d rather have many different cards in poor condition than one expensive card in great condition.”
Some Jackie cards sell for as little as $100, but some are worth thousands, even in their poor condition. Some pristine examples are worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Zach often resells cards as a way to invest in his collection. “I also think of cards as a more fun way to hold savings than a bank account,” he shares.
Zach’s collection of Jackie Robinson cards dates back to his rookie year, 1947. The most valuable card is a 1948-49 Leaf Card of Jackie. But he does collect some cards that aren’t of Jackie. “I’ve got an 1889 Magic Changing Card,” he shares. “When you hold it up to the light, the card changes. It has a watermark that shows a dog doing a trick. That’s my oldest non-Jackie card.”
While the first card of Zach’s collection came in 1986, his first Jackie card, a 1950 Bowman, wasn’t acquired until COVID. “That is special to me since it was my first Jackie card.” His favorite card in his collection is a 1949 Bowman Jackie Robinson with a bold red background. “I have a t-shirt that matches the card.”
Zach’s collection contains more than 20 different Jackie cards, and about 40 items total. Over the years he has narrowed everything down, so the collection contains a curated selection of his favorite things. He stores his collection at home, which is one of the reasons why he has insurance. “Insurance gives me peace of mind to have the cards close by and not locked up somewhere. If I needed to keep these in a vault or a bank, I wouldn’t collect. [I enjoy] holding the cards and looking at them and talking about them with other people.”
Zach also believes that the subject of his collection – Jackie Robinson – is an interesting choice. “If a collector could pick the most significant thing to learn about and collect, I think Jackie Robinson is that subject. He’s the most influential athlete of all time. That’s what makes it special to me.”
Do you have a toy collection? Are you an avid collector of action figures? Collecting vintage toys and action figures is a popular pastime. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia that makes this hobby so appealing. Collectors can purchase toys that they owned in childhood – or they can acquire the toys that they wanted to own, but never actually had.
Collecting and selling vintage toys can be a great investment opportunity. They can be an excellent store of value, and selling them online can help you rake in big bucks – if you know what you are doing. It’s important to know which toys are selling well, to keep your toys in excellent condition (and in their packaging, if possible), and finally – it’s important to choose the right selling platform for your items.
Read on to learn more about how you can make extra money from selling your toy and action figures collection – as well as the pros and cons of selling collectibles on various online platforms.
Robot Action Figure
Can You Really Make Money With an Action Figure or Toy Collection?
Action figures and vintage toys can be quite valuable, and collecting or selling them can be a solid investment option! However, it’s important to track which vintage toys and action figures are selling well online. Not all toys are created equal!
Toys or action figures that are rare and in demand will be more valuable than those which are more common or less desirable. Conduct some quick online research: search for your toys and see what they are selling for on sites such as Amazon and eBay. This will help you determine whether a toy is worth top dollar! Some popular toys include Star Wars toys, Marvel Legends, and Funko Pops.
Who Buys Collectible Action Figures and Toys?
Some buyers of collectible action figures include vintage toy stores and collectors. While vintage toy stores look to scoop them for resale, collectors are often in it for the nostalgia. Whenever a generation gets to the age that they have more disposable income, toys from their childhood tend to go up in value. Right now, collectible action figures and toys from the 90s are having a moment.
Star Wars Action Figures
Best Places to Sell Vintage Toys and Action Figures
Amazon
If you have the right items to sell, Amazon Marketplace can be a great platform to sell on. It’s easy to list items, and often the toys and action figures can sell for higher prices on Amazon compared to other places.
Keep in mind, however, that you can only list sealed figures on Amazon. So loose figures will need to be put up for sale elsewhere. Your packaging also needs to be in excellent shape, as Amazon buyers expect items bought on the platform to come in like new condition. So keep your items packaged and keep that packaging in excellent shape. Also, be sure to package the items for shipping in such a way as to avoid any damage to the toys or packaging in transit.
Another thing to keep in mind with Amazon is that they only allow top sellers to sell on their marketplace during the holiday season. So if you don’t meet their sales requirements, you’ll get booted off of the platform in November and December.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that Amazon charges the hi
ghest seller fees for toys, which adds up to about 15% plus other fees. Because you can generally sell for a higher price, you may be able to cover the higher fees, but it’s something to think about.
eBay
eBay is perhaps the most common online marketplace to sell vintage toys and action figures, and you can sell both loose figures and those still in their original packaging.
You can put your toys up for auction or you can sell them with a “buy it now” price – whichever you prefer. Auctions tend to go faster than the “buy it now” items, but the “buy it now” price can help ensure that you get a fair price for your item, if you’re willing to wait a little longer.
Be sure to take excellent, high-quality photos for each listing to help the item sell faster. Also, be sure to be accurate in your description and honest about the condition your item is in. If the item has been authenticated, it’s important to note that in your listing.
Brian’s Toys
This website looks mostly for collectible toys that are still in their original packaging. This is a great place to sell vintage toys, action figures, and even Funko Pops. You can send your list of toys to the company and they will send you a quote for your items.
There’s even an app you can use to quickly scan the barcodes on your toys and send them in for a quote.
Fiddlepiddle
Fiddlepiddle is an online marketplace dedicated to selling toys. You just need to set yourself up as a vendor and create your own online shop to sell your vintage toys and action figures. One benefit of using this platform is that there are no listing fees. Fiddlepiddle simply takes 5% of the final sale price for each sale made on the platform.
Selling Apps
Apps are a popular place to sell these days, and Mercari and WhatNot are among the top apps to use. Mercari is easy to use and you can get a decent price for your toys, but sales do tend to be slower in comparison with eBay and Amazon. You can list loose figures or items in their packaging.
WhatNot is a very popular place to sell toys, but the app has an approval process in place for sellers. You’ll need to provide them with your social media accounts, references, and feedback from other sellers such as eBay and Amazon. Getting their approval can be difficult – not everyone is approved.
Once you do get approved, it’s important to sell frequently so you can build your own customer base. When you’ve done this, you’ll find that items can sell for high prices on this platform in comparison with others. You can sell more than one item in a live sale, so while it might take some extra work, being able to sell on this platform is certainly worthwhile.
Social Media
You can sell your toys on social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram. This can be a bit difficult to pull off. If you have a huge following, you are more likely to have success on these platforms, but building that following requires a lot of effort. Also, more popular toys may sell well on these platforms, but less popular or niche toys may not fare so well. They are not the best place to sell if you are looking to make money quickly.
Toy and Collectible Stores
Brick and mortar stores are always an option when it comes to selling your collectible items. It may be one of the fastest ways to unload some of your collectibles, but you won’t get as much money for your toys as you would with other selling options. This is because stores are looking to resell your toy collection, so they will need to make a lower offer in order to maintain a certain profit margin.
Selling to stores is best when you are looking to get rid of a large quantity of items, but not so great if you are looking to make good money from selling your vintage toys.
Star Wars Storm Trooper Action Figure
How do I check the authenticity of an action figure before selling it?
If you are looking to sell toys or action figures, it’s important to check its authenticity. You don’t want to be selling a fake or a reproduction! You can have a professional appraiser take a look at what you are trying to sell. Besides verifying the authenticity, they can also help you determine the value and grade of your item. As an added bonus, having a toy appraised means you might be able to sell it for more, and you’ll be aware of its value in case someone tries to offer you less than what it is worth.
There are many companies out there that offer grading services for collectible toys. With The Action Figure Authority, it costs $32 to have a standard sized figure graded within 60 to 80 days. You can also pay $55 to have it graded in a week. You may also be able to find graders and appraisers at local conventions, which may be less pricey.
How do I determine the price to sell my action figure?
For starters, do some research before you sell toys or action figures to determine what they are currently selling for online. This will help you create a baseline of what your item is worth. If the toy in question looks like it could be worth over $200, consider having it graded and appraised, which will help ensure that you are able to sell the toy for its full value. Having a third party examine your toys will verify to the buyer what condition it is in.
What are some tips for maximizing the selling price of action figures?
If you are looking to sell toys online or in person, you’ll certainly want to sell them for the highest possible price to maximize your return on investment. Here are some crucial tips that will help you get the most money for your collectibles.
Know the value
As mentioned before, be sure to do proper research and find out what your toy is selling for online. Consider having pricier items appraised to verify their condition to the buyer. Arm yourself with knowledge and don’t let anyone lowball you on the price. You want to get the full value of your collectible toy!
Clean your toy collections
If you are selling loose figures, you’ll want to make sure that they are clean before you sell them. In general, action figures can be cleaned using warm soapy water. Get them in tip-top condition so that they look their best when you start to market them online – or wherever you choose to sell them.
Add insurance before transit
When selling collectible toys, it’s important that you have proper insurance. This will protect both you and the buyer in the event that the package is lost or damaged in transit.
Keep the original packaging
Toys and action figures are typically worth more when they are kept in their packaging, so be sure to save that and keep it in great condition. If the packaging is sealed, you won’t be able to open the toys at all, but some toys – such as Funko Pops, come with unsealed packaging that allows you to sneak a peak of the collectible before putting it back in the box.
Marvel Action Figures & More
FAQs
Where can I buy toys and action figures to resell?
Keep an eye out for online auctions – sometimes, you can stumble upon an underpriced gem on a site such as eBay. You can also scour thrift stores, consignment stores, or even estate sales for vintage toys and action figures.
What is the best way to package and ship action figures?
Start with a box that fits the figure while allowing a bit of “breathing room” around it. You’ll want to fill the empty space around the toy with special packaging materials. This can include bubble wrap and newspaper. A good practice is to wrap some bubble wrap around the toy itself and fill the empty space in the box with packing paper or peanuts. As many action figures and toys come in packaging that has a bubble, you’ll want to make sure that you don’t wrap them so tightly as to crush the packaging. Finally, use packing tape to seal the box and mark the box with a fragile sticker, if appropriate.
Once you’ve packaged your vintage toys or action figures appropriately, you’ll want to pick a shipping service. Options include FedEx, UPS, and USPS.
How do I handle returns or complaints from buyers of action figures?
It’s important to do what you can to avoid having any returns or complaints when selling vintage toys or action figures online. It starts with your listing and your photos. Be sure to take clear pictures that show all angles of the action figures and toys. Make sure that your listing is accurate and that what you are selling is authentic. If there are any flaws, be sure to photograph them clearly and point them out in the listing so that the buyer knows exactly what they are getting.
Another important way to avoid complaints is to package items carefully for shipping, as explained above. It’s the seller’s job to package items well so that nothing gets damaged in transit.
Still, you may find that you have some complaints or returns. Be sure to make your return policy clear on your listings. If you do not accept returns, you may want to make an exception if the item is damaged in transit or there is something wrong with the item you sold. Be sure to address customer complaints in a timely and fair way. Your customers can leave you with reviews, and you don’t want to have bad reviews due to poor customer service.
X-Men action figures portray characters created for Marvel Comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. While the characters were introduced in 1963, the action figures were first produced in 1991 by a company called Toy Biz (now Marvel Toys). Toy Biz introduced the first nine figures in the series that year. These characters included Wolverine, Storm, Cyclops, Archangel, Nightcrawler, Apocalypse, Juggernaut, Colossus, and Magneto. During that decade, at least two sets of X-Men action figures were released annually, featuring other characters which included Gambit, Iceman, Banshee, Forge, Sabretooth, Professor X, and Rogue.
Today, X-Men action figures are considered a collectors item, and these toys can fetch a pretty penny if you sell them in an online auction. Read on to learn more about these incredible toys, what they are worth, and how you can determine their authenticity.
What is the average price range for X-Men action figures?
The price for X-Men action figures can range from $19.99 for the more common figures to $1,000 for some of the rare 90s figures that sell on eBay.
Here are some examples of X-Men action figures that fetch a higher price:
Deadpool with Extending Dagger ($500)
Cyclops with Apocalypse Card ($250)
X-Men Space Riders Set with Master Battle Cruiser ($75)
X-Men Water Wars Hydro Blast Wolverine ($170)
X-Men vs Street Fighter Cyclops and M. Bison ($90)
Kane Deluxe 10″ Figure ($200)
Wolverine with Light-Up Weapons ($180)
Grand Canadian X-Men Four Pack – 2nd Edition ($194)
Uncanny X-Men Omega Red ($341)
X-Men Battle Blasters Wolverine ($348)
Uncanny X-Men Saber Tooth ($328)
X-Men vs Street Fighter Gambit and Zangief ($1,000)
How do I determine the value of my X-Men action figure?
The best way to determine the value of an X-Men action figure is to search to see what price it is currently selling for online. You can check out the price guides and recent listings on online auction sites, such as eBay.
It’s also important to keep in mind the condition of the item you are selling. Is the original packaging still in place, or is it a loose figure? Items in mint condition and in their original box will fetch the highest prices.
Are limited edition X-Men action figures more valuable?
Limited edition means that only a certain number of figures were created. Limited edition X-Men figures are more rare than regular ones, making them more likely to sell for higher prices.
How do I authenticate an X-Men action figure?
You can have your X-Men action figures graded and authenticated by experts. Collector Archive Services provides third party authentication services, which may be worth the price if you want your figures to fetch a high price online. People are more likely to pay higher prices for X-Men figures online if they have been graded and authenticated by the experts.
FAQs
Does the condition of an X-Men action figure affect its value?
Yes, the condition has a huge impact on the value of these toys. Action figures in great condition are more valuable than those in poor condition. They are also worth more when they are still sealed in their original box.
You can verify the condition of your action figures by hiring a third-party grading service to grade them on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being Gem Mint and 1 being poor.
Are there any X-Men action figures that are considered rare or hard to find?
Yes, there are some X-Men action figures that are considered rare. This includes the Wolverine Action Figure by Sentinel, which is a rare find according to Sideshow.com. There is also a rare “Spy Wolverine” action figure that was exclusive to Kay Bee toys.
Where is the best place to buy X-Men action figures?
You can purchase X-Men action figures online at a variety of different outlets, including sites such as eBay and other auction platforms, as well as at stores that sell toys.
Jeremy Kennedy has been fond of amusement park rides since childhood. It all began with carnivals – he was fascinated by all of the lights, the sights, and the smells. His father took him to a carnival in a parking lot of a nearby town. “Driving to this small town and seeing a carnival changed everything for me!” shares Jeremy. When he was old enough to drive, he got a Six Flags season pass. There, he learned about the intricate workings of amusement park rides. He was even part of a team that was invited to evaluate Six Flags as a park.
Soon, he became interested in vintage amusement park rides. His interest began with visits to antique stores, where he would find kitschy souvenirs such as ash trays and plates. “There are a lot of artefacts out there, and I feel like I’m rescuing them,” Jeremy says. Besides these souvenirs, the growing collection also consists of amusement ride replicas that Jeremy built himself, including a couple of large Ferris Wheels. “I always tell visitors, ‘prepare to be amazed’. The collection is even more spectacular at night, because of the lights. Some of them have audio, and they play carousel music.”
For Jeremy, collecting is all about preserving the past and the thrill of the hunt. He enjoys growing his collection through visiting antique stores, which he finds addicting. “As a kid, you put up pennants of your favorite sports team. Amusement parks were always close to my heart. I could never own an amusement park, but I can build a miniature one.” He tends to focus on 1950s for his collection, mainly because, “all that stuff from the 1920s has already been written about.” The 1950s brought popular parks such as Disneyland and Silver Springs.
This collection is unique for its size and variety. Jeremy prides himself on being able to obtain and preserve objects that many people have never seen before – and often, objects that can only be found in his collection. For example, Jeremy found a small handbell from an obscure amusement park that closed in 1982 from an estate sale. “I realized I might have things that people haven’t heard of just because I took a risk on buying something,” he explains. “I might be the only person who has one, and I restored it back to life. I think that sets me apart from others.”
His favorite piece is one that most people might not understand the significance of. It’s a ceramic plate that hangs in his bathroom, and it’s from a very small amusement park called Gold City, which closed back in the 80s. He drove past the park as a kid, but never went there. “Finding a souvenir of this place was like finding a leprechaun,” shares Jeremy. “My spouse found the plate at an antique store for $1.” The park’s claim to fame was an old show called HeHaw – a comedy country music show. A man named Archie Campbell was a writer on that show, and on Friday nights he would host a singing contest in Gold City. “Most people, if I showed them that plate, wouldn’t understand, but for me it brings back a lot of memories.”
The oldest piece in the collection is the shell of a fire engine from a carnival ride. Jeremy shares a story about how he came across this piece: a man was selling watermelons on the side of the road, and in the garden that was next to him, Jeremy spotted the fire engine. There was a plant growing inside, and it had two steering wheels. He picked it up for $25, and now it’s the oldest thing in his collection. “I think it’s from the 1940s,” says Jeremy.
The most expensive item in Jeremy’s collection is a gondola from an old amusement park called Frontier Land. He paid $1,000 for the piece, and then renovated it. Today the piece is worth much more than $1,000, but Jeremy likes it far too much to sell it. This gondola, along with the plate from Gold City, are among his most prized possessions. Another favorite from the collection is a Disneyland pennant that he picked up for about $30, but it’s worth over $100.
This collection, which is around 650 pieces in size, is displayed in a bedroom of Jeremy’s home. Jeremy and his spouse don’t have children, so they have discussed the possibility of donating the collection to a museum. But for now, Jeremy plans to enjoy his collection – and share it with visitors that come to his home. As one of his neighbors told him, “This is the kind of place you look in and you can’t help but smile!”
Music memorabilia is a popular collectible category, and it includes an item which we will discuss in more detail: vintage concert tickets. Vintage concert tickets are valued by collectors as they hold lots of nostalgia for bands of the past. They typically list the name of the band and the date of the concert, and their design can also be a unique factor.
You may be wondering – just how collectible are vintage concert tickets? Are they worth anything, or are they just a fun way to reminisce? How many people actually collect concert tickets? Read on to learn more about vintage concert tickets and their value as a collectible item.
Mountain View, California – June 18, 1988 – Old used ticket for the concert of AC-DC at Shoreline Amphitheatre
Do people still buy vintage concert tickets?
The most valuable kind are those tickets that are unused where the entire ticket is intact, but ticket stubs can be worth something as well if they show the band’s name, the venue, and the date. Another factor contributing to their value is if the tickets date back to when the original members of the band were playing.
Tickets from the 60s and 70s are in high demand, but other decades of tickets hold value as well, such as tickets from the 90s, which have recently become popular. Condition plays a role in the value of the tickets, but some wear is expected as it’s rare to find them in perfect condition.
Some examples of valuable tickets are Woodstock Festival tickets from 1969, which are highly collectible. In 2014, a vintage Beatles ticket sold for a whopping $16,488.
Mountain View, California – June 7, 1987 – Old used ticket for the concert of Bon Jovi at Shoreline Amphitheatre
What causes the value of vintage concert tickets to rise?
When it comes to vintage concert tickets, not all of them will become super valuable. Some factors such as historical importance, rarity, and condition all have an impact on a ticket’s value. Read on to learn more about these factors!
Historical Importance
Collectors will shell out more money for tickets that have some sort of historical significance. Tickets for the final performance of a popular artist, for example, will tend to sell for more. In recent years, tickets for the final performance of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper have climbed in value to around $17,000. Other historical moments include the first performance of a hit song, a performance on a historic date, or an artist’s career milestone.
Cultural Impact
Sometimes, a ticket has more than just historical significance – it could be that the ticket has some sort of relevancy in the current culture. If a band is in the news a lot or something significant is going on with them, the value of their past concert tickets could skyrocket.
Current Condition
Scratches, fading, and bent corners all affect the value of the concert ticket. Many tickets used to be torn by the ticket collector, so finding an entire ticket intact is a great find that can be quite valuable. As an example, a Beatles ticket in great condition sold for $16,000, while a ticket to that same concert with a slight tear sold for just $1,842.
Rarity
Rare tickets have a tendency to be more valuable than common ones. The more scarce a ticket is, typically the selling price will be higher.
What are the most valuable vintage concert tickets?
The most valuable vintage concert tickets feature legendary bands or popular concerts. Tickets from special milestones in a band’s career also tend to have more value.
Legendary Bands
There are some legendary bands whose concert tickets tend to be the most valuable collectible items. Here’s a list of the top twelve collectible bands and artists.
The Beatles
Rolling Stones
Bob Dylan
The Doors
Jimi Hendrix
Pink Floyd
Eric Clapton
Queen
Led Zeppelin
The Who
Nirvana
Janis Joplin
Popular Concerts & Events
Certain popular concerts over the years have produced more valuable ticket stubs than others. This includes Woodstock Festival 1969, which at the time was a big cultural phenomenon. It was all about protesting for peace against the Vietnam War, and it became an example of what that generation was all about. No one has ever been able to recreate such an event, making the tickets to it quite valuable. Other valuable and memorable events include Live Aid and Woodstock.
Get your vintage tickets graded
PSA is best known for grading sports cards, but they will also grade your tickets for you. If you are a serious collector or are looking to sell, consider having your tickets graded. This will verify their condition as well as ensure their authenticity. PSA will grade your tickets on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being Poor and 10 being Gem Mint.
Buy shares in vintage concert tickets
If buying vintage concert tickets is too expensive, there’s an alternative option! The online platform Rally offers a new approach to investing in concert tickets. Rally is offering shares of a ticket to Elvis’s last performance in 1977 for just $8 a share. The ticket itself is worth around $40,000.
FAQs
What do I do with vintage tickets from concerts?
Save your old tickets and stubs! They could be a collector item. Even if yours don’t increase in value, they can be quite nostalgic and provide a great way to reminisce about a band or concert.
Do old ticket stubs have value?
Old ticket stubs can be quite valuable. Typically, the most in-demand item is a full ticket in its original condition, but if the ticket stub contains important information about the concert, it can still be worth something.
How can I keep vintage tickets from fading?
Store tickets at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Also, be sure to store them away from humidity to prevent other types of damage.
Nova Montgomery never set out to be a collector: she simply fell in love with the quality of the Singer Featherweight Model 221 sewing machine. “There never has been another sewing machine with as perfect a stitch!” she shares. She started out using this sewing machine as a quilter, but after fixing the machine a few times, and reading everything she could find about the machine, she came to be familiar with its workings. When friends would have something go wrong with their machines, they would reach out to her to fix them. Pretty soon, this avid quilter spent most of her time fixing sewing machines for others. She took a leap and had a company develop a website for her growing business, and things really started to take off.
The collecting part came later – when an avid sewing machine collector from Casper, Wyoming reached out to her. He wanted to know about Nova’s collection, and she confessed she only had the machine she sewed on. He was surprised and let Nova know that she should start collecting sewing machines. With his encouragement, Nova began collecting, mostly with machines that she purchased through his connections with others. The first machine that Nova purchased for her collection is a 1934 Chicago World’s Fair badged machine, which is her favorite piece in the collection by far. “It’s very special to me. It was a special event in our country, and it’s a very special, unique machine.”
Nova also added to her collection by purchasing some machines from pickers who were selling them online. They refused to send her photos of the machines, but the price was very low, so Nova agreed to purchase them, thinking she could probably use the parts. She purchased two machines, and when they arrived, they turned out to be collector’s machines in perfect condition. The pickers didn’t know the value of what they had!
Overall, Nova owns 16 or 17 machines, and she has 11 of them on display in her sewing room. There is a high shelf in the room that was built for the purpose of displaying them, and they are all in chronological order. All of the machines in her collection are historically unique in some way. Some other notable items in her collection are a 1951 Singer with a badge to celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary. The badge reads, “A century of sewing.” She also owns a Blackside machine. These machines were produced in 1939 using an anodized process for the chrome pieces, since nickel and chrome were in short supply as the country was getting ready for WWII. She also has a 1939 Singer that has a crinkle finish.
Today, Nova is an avid collector and offers sewing machine repair services. She has also served on the faculty of the International Quilt Festival in Houston, Texas for over a decade. Her true passion is teaching people how to care for their sewing machines. At lectures, she often asks students if they drove there in a 70-year-old car or used a 70-year-old kitchen appliance to prepare breakfast that morning. “There aren’t many things in our households that function for so long, but these sewing machines do! I believe they will be sewing for generations if they are well cared for.”
John Grace’s interest in collecting bicycles started in 1983, when his father started collecting bikes. “My dad wanted to find a bike like the one he had as a kid, so we looked at bike shows, garage sales and old bike shops,” explains John. “My brother and I went with him, and we were exposed to a whole new world! There were so many interesting designs and mechanical innovations.” Today, both John and his brother own bike collections.
For his collection, John tends to focus on several brands that he really likes, as well as specific time periods. While his dad was focused on the 1940s and 1950s, John and his brother were fascinated with high wheelers and turn of the century bikes. He found these bikes to be very ridable – a plus, since he tends to actually ride the bikes he collects. The brothers often take part in various parades and events. “It opened us up to a whole new activity,” shares John. “I even met my wife through collecting.” John’s wife’s father is one of the founding members of the Wheelmen, a club for bicycles made prior to WWI. She participated in many events, but after she and John met, she got more involved in collecting.
John’s favorite piece in his collection of over 200 bikes is his 1889 Columbia Light Roadster High Wheeler. It has a 53” front wheel and is the bike he has ridden the most frequently. “I have completed about a dozen centuries on it. A century is when you ride 100 miles in a day.” The oldest bike in his collection is a 54” 1882 Columbia Expert, and the most recent is a Recumbent which he purchased in 2000. The first bike that John ever restored was an 1899 Columbia Chainless Bicycle, which he purchased from a shop in Pittsburgh.
When it comes to value, John has everything from a $10 bike to a $9,000 bike. Overall, bikes tend not to lose or gain significant value. “In a 20-year span, they’ve gone up, but from year to year there aren’t any significant changes,” explains John. He watches auctions often so that he can keep track of the value of his collection for insurance purposes. The most valuable bike John owns is actually his wife’s Star bicycle. It’s a high-wheel safety where the large wheel is in the back and the small wheel is in the front. This designed is to help prevent the rider from going over the handlebars.
John notes a few other unique bikes in his collection. He has a restored 1941 Elgin Twin Bar, which is a very special bike. It was only built for four years. It’s art deco in style and has a unique frame, with continuous tubes that loop from the headset to the rear wheel and then back to the headset to form the frame. This bike was sold by Sears right before World War II. “Sears bikes sold before the war were called Elgins, and after the war they were called J.C. Higgins,” shares John. He also has an 1890 Columbia Light Roadster Hard Tire Safety Bike and a 1908 Columbia Men’s and Ladies shaft drive with dual suspension and 2-speed rear hubs, which is a unique feature.
John and his wife Dorothy keep a handful of bikes at home in Michigan, but the bulk of their collection is displayed in a building located in a nearby town. Everything is laid out chronologically and then by brand. John likes things in chronological order so that he can walk people through the evolution of the bicycle through time.
Folk art is a broad art form that is difficult to define. Its primary purpose is to express the cultural identity of the artist. This differs from fine art, which is created primarily for aesthetic purposes.
Folk art has a rich history and comes in many forms and from many cultural backgrounds. Read on to learn more about folk art, include how to define it, how it differs from other art forms, and what famous artists and works of art are considered folk art.
What is Folk Art?
Other genres of art are more easily defined than folk art. Folk art is very different than traditional art. Folk art is art that is generally produced by artists that have no formal training. It is often produced by a tradesperson who has been apprenticed. The main purpose of traditional folk art is to express their cultural identity. Traditional rules such as perspective and proportion are less important than conveying this cultural identity.
Fine Art
Also known as “high art,” this type of art is the highest standard of artistic expression. This type of art is created for the sole purpose of being visually pleasing. Unlike “low art”, which is often designed for more practical reasons, this type of art is design for aesthetic purposes.
Outsider Art
Outsider art is created by artists who have little influence from the world of mainstream art, and instead follow their personal visions. These artists tend to have no formal training, and many of them are not aware of mainstream art, as they focus on what they personally like to create. They are also motivated differently than mainstream artists. They make art for themselves, to document life experiences or historical events.
Types of Folk Art
If you were to cover every type of folk art in existence, the list would be never ending. Folk art comes in many varieties and originates from a long list of countries and cultures. However, there are a few types that are the most well-known or popular. Read on for just a sampling of the most popular types of folk art.
Indian Folk Art
Indian folk art reflects India’s rich and diverse cultures, and there are over 50 types. Here are a few of the most well-known types.
Aipan Art: Aipan art originates from the state of Uttarakhand in Northern India. It includes Jain, Buddhist, and Hindu themes. This type of art often consists of geometric prints on paper cloth or walls. These are all designed for special occasions, ceremonies, and rituals.
Assamese Miniature Painting: Assamese paintings are usually painted on tulpap, agar leaves, and wooden plates which are typically between 1 and 24 inches long and between 8 and 12 inches wide. These miniature works of art originated from the Indiah state of Assam.
Bhojpuri Painting: These paintings date back to 1300 B.C. and have played an important role influencing art. They are found in Uttar Pradesh.
Mexican Folk Art
Mexican Folk art is very distinct and can easily be identified as Mexican. The many types of art found in Mexico are a reflection of the country’s indigenous cultures.
Alebrije folk art: This form of art is among the most well-known Mexican folk arts. This includes traditional wood carving crafts, wooden sculptures, and paper mache. These carvings often future fantastical, brightly colored creatures, and they can be found on the streets of Oaxaca.
Huichol folk art: This type of article is created by native Huichol people. They design heavy and complex pieces of jewelry made from thousands of brightly colored beads.
State of Mexico folk art: This type of art often depicts stories from the Bible and other tales in the form of colorful and elaborately decorated items.
Famous Folk Art Paintings
Here is a list of just a few of the most popular and well-known folk art paintings.
“Josiah Dean III and his wife Sarah Dean of Raynham, Massachusetts,” by Rufus Hathaway (oil on canvas)
“Witches Tearoom,” by Vestie Davis (oil on canvas board)
“Portrait of Lydia Luana” by Ruth Henshaw Bascom (pastel on paper)
“The Lincoln Children” by Susan Waters
“The Westwood Children” by Joshua Johnson
Well-Known Folk Artists Throughout History
Traditional folk art is often created by artists that have no formal training. Read on to learn more about a few popular folk artists throughout history.
Ruth Henshaw Bascom: In the late 18th century, Bascom lived in rural Massachusetts. She was a teacher who made portraits of friends and relatives in her spare time. These portraits were life size and made of pastel on paper. Her personal diaries indicate that she created over 1,400 portraits, but only 200 have been found and identified. She often gave her portraits as gifts. You can view some of her work in the American Folk Art Museum and the Worcester Art Museum.
Charlie Willeto: Charlie was the first Navajo artist known to create sculptures, primarily of animals. He started carving in the 1960s, which was only a few years before his death. He used his works to barter for food.
Elito Villaflor Circa: This Filipino painter is known for using human hair and bodily fluids in his paintings. He had no formal training; rather, he began drawing using charcoal from the kitchen stove at the age of eight. His works often incorporate Philippine mythology. His use of blood in his work is intended to symbolize life, love, and sacrifice.
Consuelo Gonzalez Amezcua: Born in Mexico, Amezcua immigrated to the United States in 1913. She created complex pen and ink drawings that include repetitive patterns of fine lines. She would use her art to showcase her interest in historical figures. She also was inspired by Mexican filigree jewelry. You can find examples of her work in the Smithsonian Museum of American Art’s collection.
Techniques & Processes used in Folk Art
Folk art can utilize a wide range of media. This includes wood, cloth, paper, clay, and metal. Often traditional materials such as paint are inaccessible for the artist and other mediums are used instead. This gives folk art a very unique appearance.
If you have a collection of any kind of art, you might want to consider art insurance. Insurance offers you peace of mind knowing that your precious collection is protected from the unexpected.
FAQs
What are the characteristics of folk art?
Folk art is designed primarily by artists that lack formal training. Its primary purpose is to be a reflection of its culture. Traditional rules of art, such as perspective and proportion, are often overlooked.
What is the difference between a fine artist and a folk artist?
A fine artist creates art that is primarily for the purpose of being aesthetically pleasing. A folk artist creates unique art that goes against traditional rules and is primarily a reflection of its cultural background. They are often self-taught artists that lack formal training.
