Snowbabies are popular collectible items that are easily recognized by many. These baby shaped figures feature cute babies dressed in furry snow outfits. They are made from biscuit porcelain and are decorated with crushed bisque to look like snowflakes, and they are always depicted as joyously frolicking in the snow. These adorable figurines are often found at flea markets and estate sales, and they are valued by collectors.
These popular figurines have a history that dates back to over 100 years ago, and today they are still beloved by many. Read on to learn more about the history of snowbabies, factors that impact their value, where to find them, and how to take care of them to ensure that they last for future generations of collectors.
The History of Snowbabies Figurines
In the 1890s, Johann Moll created the first snowbaby figurines as reusable cake toppers. These first snowbabies were designed to look like sugar dolls that were used in Christmas decorations during that time period. They were first manufactured by Hertwig and Company.
It wasn’t long before other German porcelain factories began to produce snowbabies. At first they were only sold in Germany, but soon they were exported to England and the United States. They became quite popular as decorations during the holiday season.
During World War I, the production of snowbabies was temporarily stopped due to war efforts. For a brief time period after the war, England and the United State manufactured snowbabies of inferior quality that never quite took off. However, in 1987 they experienced a resurgence when Department 56 began producing snowbaby replicas with the same baby characters. Today, they are popular collectible figurines – both the new snowbabies available in departments stores and antique snowbaby versions.
Factors That Can Affect the Snowbabies Value
There are three key factors that will determine the value of your collectible snowbaby figurines. They are rarity, age, and condition. Read on to learn more about each factor!
Rarity
The older original snowbabies are quite rare, making them more valuable. Older snowbabies are characterized by having a more realistic look, and they also feature blue snow. These are hard to come by! There are also other characters that were categorized as snowbabies, such as Santa Claus. These characters are often even more valuable than the baby shaped figures.
Age
The most in demand snowbabies for collectors are those original antique figures that were made in Germany. These were made in limited quantities, and were carefully crafted and featured great detailing. These usually have a more realistic look than their newer counterparts, and they often feature blue snow.
Condition
As with many collectibles, the condition of a snowbaby figurine will impact its value. However, the antique versions of snowbabies are difficult to find without signs of wear. This is because the paint used to decorate them wasn’t fired onto the figures, and therefore washed off over the years. Most collectors are accepting of this type of wear, as it is hard to avoid.
10 Most Valuable and Rare Snowbabies Figurines
Some special snowbaby designs are quite rare and valuable! Here are ten of the cutest snowbabies around:
Antique German Snowbaby Sits or Stands
Worth around $350, this snowbaby figurine has arms and legs that can move, which enables it to sit or stand.
1996 Dept 56 Snowbaby
This cute snowbaby features bunny ears and holds a birthday cake. It is valued at around $22.
Large Santa Claus Germany Snowbaby
This original piece was produced in 1910, and is worth around $150. Snowbabies made to look like other characters are quite rare and valuable!
Snowbaby “Send a Message” Angel
Worth around $25, this angel snowbaby was produced in 2001.
Elf Hides Antique German Bisque Snowbaby
This antique piece was produced in 1904, and features an elf hiding around the corner of a cottage from a witch. This piece is a rare find!
Rare Hertwig Santa Sleigh Snowbaby
Produced in 1916, this figure features Santa in his sleigh being pulled by reindeer. It is quite valuable, at around $1,800.
VTG Japan Christmas Snowbaby
This rare snowbaby features cute babies with blonde curls peaking out of their hooded snow outfits. They are worth around $250 apiece.
German Tiny Snowbaby
Produced in 1916, this small German snowbaby is worth around $25.
Vintage Pico Sugared Snowbaby
This pixie snowbaby appears to be decorated in sugar! It is worth around $50.
Santa Gnome Plush Snowbaby
This plus Santa Gnome holds a small snowbaby in its arms. It is valued around $35.
How to Spot Fake or Reproduction Snowbabies
There are many reproduction snowbabies that show up in auctions and at flea markets. They are made to look like the originals, so it can be very difficult to distinguish between the two.
One thing to watch out for is new “snow.” If you see little black specks in the white snow, this often indicates a reproduction. Also, an antique real snowbaby will usually be a bit dirty from dust collected over the years.
Another way to spot fakes is to look for snow that is too white compared to the rest of the figure. This indicates that the seller added porcelain snow flakes in an effort to make them more desirable.
Where To Buy Desirable Snowbabies Figurines?
There are plenty of places to buy snowbabies figurines! Newer snowbabies can be purchased in many department stores and gift shops. There are also plenty of options for purchasing both new and antique snowbabies online, such as eBay, Etsy, replacements.com, Wayfair, and other online auctions.
Best Practices in Caring and Storing Snowbabies Figurines
Be sure to store your snowbabies in a safe place where they are unlikely to get bumped or broken. The safest place to store them is behind glass in a closed curio cabinet.
To clean your snowbabies, you can carefully soak them in warm soapy water and dry them with a gentle cloth.
FAQs
Are older snowbabies more valuable than newer ones?
Older snowbabies are more valuable than the newer counterparts. The older ones are often identified by the wear and tear on the paint, which wore off easily because the paint wasn’t fired on to these porcelain figurines.
Can snowbabies figurines increase in value over time?
Genuine antique German snowbabies are quite valuable, and are likely to increase in value over time. However, newer versions aren’t quite as valuable, and it’s hard to say whether or not they will increase in value over the years. You may not want to view newer snowbabies as an investment item. Buy what you love and enjoy collecting them for what they are! If they rise in value, that will just be an added bonus.
How can I tell if a snowbabies figurine is authentic?
Be on the lookout for reproduction snowbabies figurines, which are quite common. Look out for figurines that have black specks in the white snow, which can indicate a reproduction. A genuine antique German snowbaby can often be identified by the dust or wear and tear on the paint job. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for snow that looks too white in comparison to the rest of the figure, which can indicate a reproduction snowbaby.
What is the best way to sell a valuable snowbabies figurine?
You could sell your valuable snowbaby figurines to pawn shops, resale shops, or other stores and gift shops, but you most likely won’t get the most money for them, as they are looking to resell for a profit. The best way to get the most money for your collectible figurines is to sell them individually on online auction sites, such as eBay. Be sure to do your research to see what they have been selling for online. This will help you to price them fairly and get their full value!
Victor Colvin started collecting vintage sewing machines fairly recently, in 2017. A tailor and fashion designer of over 40 years, he was using a white plastic Walmart machine and was working on a project that had a deadline when the machine started acting up. He looked on Facebook Marketplace and found a vintage Kenmore near where he was living at the time. The machine so impressed him that he decided to purchase more vintage machines as a backup. He found a seller that had three of the machines, and he purchased all three of them.
Soon, Victor began to get involved in the vintage sewing machine community on Facebook. He was surprised to discover just how large the community was – the first group he joined had 65,000 members from all over the world. He began sharing pictures of his new sewing machine purchases with the group, and before he knew it, he had an audience of people waiting to see what he would share next. “I was finding some real beauties!” he shares. “Next thing I knew, I was a rock star in this community.”
Today, Victor’s collection consists of almost 300 machines, many of which he acquired overseas from countries such as the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands. Although at first he was just buying whatever he could find, his eye is now more trained to find the machines that are special and rare. The oldest piece in the collection is a mother of pearl Singer 12, which dates back to 1868. The rarity of what he collects is something that makes his collection truly stand out.
His favorite piece from the collection is a Queen Victoria Jubilee Singer Model 27. Singer produced just 100 of these and gave them away in a contest in 1897 – they were never for sale. The machine commemorated Queen Victoria’s reign, and there’s a picture of her on the bed of the machine. Only 7 or 8 of them are known to exist. “I may have #9 out of 100,” shares Victor. Victor acquired this special piece at an auction in the UK. “You can tell when an auction house doesn’t know what it has, but they knew what it was – they had the name on it.” When it came time for the auction, the starting bid was set at 200 pounds. Victor placed a bid and was surprised to find that no one else bid on the item! “The auctioneer was surprised,” he shares.
The most Victor has ever paid for a machine was $1,200, but the average cost is around $40 – $300. “Some I’ve resold for double that,” he shares. He’s sold over a dozen singer 222 Featherweights in the neighborhood of around $2,000.
Right now, Victor’s collection is all in storage, but he has plans to change that. He has started a nonprofit organization that will open a vintage sewing machine showroom in Washington DC. “I will be housing my collection there once I have funding!” he shares. “I’ve already gotten participation from top collectors that will loan their machines to the showroom.” He and his partner currently teach sewing classes in DC community centers, and they plan to teach them at the showroom as well.
The Matchbox car is a classic toy that has been beloved by children for many years, and they even predate the popular Hot Wheels cars. First introduced in 1952, these small toy cars are fun to play with, and they come in a wide variety of designs, styles, and colors.
Today, some of the rarest Matchbox cars are now considered quite valuable. Vintage Matchbox cars can sell for quite a bit of money, making them a unique and lucrative collectible item. Join us as we explore the history of Matchbox, the most valuable Matchbox cars, and the wide variety of these cars that are available today!
Matchbox History: How It Got Started
Early Matchbox cars were developed by Leslie Smith and Rodney Smith, two English diecasters. They founded their company, Lesney Products, in 1947. Together with Jack Odell, they began designing small toys during wartime. In 1952, the Matchbox car was an idea that Odell had after discovering that his daughter’s school permitted students to bring toys that fit in a matchbox. Inspired by this, Odell produced small toy cars that could fit in a matchbox. This classic toy car has since been loved by generations of children.
Top 11 Matchbox Cars That Command a High Price Tag
So which Matchbox cars can you expect to fetch a pretty penny? Read on as we explore the top eleven most valuable Matchbox cars!
Mercedes Benz 230 SL
Produced in 1967, this car originally came in white and yellow. Apple green is the most valued color for this car. Last sold in 1999, it sold for about $6,765.
Chevy Monte Carlo
Produced in 1988, the Chevy Monte Carlo had multiple redesigns during its production.
Ferrari 308 Matchbox Car
Ferraris became popular with children when Tom Selleck’s character in Magnum, P.I. drove one in the 80s.
Toyota MR2 Matchbox Car
The Toyota MR2 is a sports car that ensures good fuel economy. The Matchbox version of this car has become quite valuable.
Aveling Barford Road Roller
This Matchbox car was first produced in 1953, and today a mint condition version sells for around $30.
BP Dodge Wrecker 1965 – Reverse Color
Factory errors can contribute to the value of a Matchbox car. In this case, the BP Dodge Wrecker was produced with the wrong colors. Trucks like these had a green bed and a yellow body, but Matchbox accidentally produced them with the reverse of that color scheme.
1968 Volkswagen Bug
These cute vehicles have a higher price because of their unique features. You can expect to pay around $68 for one, but an orange and copper version is worth around $1,500.
Major Scale Quarry Truck
Produced in 1958, these rare Matchbox cars sell for around $100. One version sold for a shocking $15,000.
Ford Fairlane Police Car
On average, a Ford Fairlane Police Car will sell for around $30, but the rare grey-wheeled version sold recently for around $1,200.
Opel Diplomat Sea Green Matchbox Car
This pretty vehicle was first produced in 1966 and comes in a lovely sea green color. The value sits around $9,000.
Magirus Deutz Crane Light Brown
The rarest versions of this car sell for a whopping $11,000.
What are the Most Collectible & Valuable Matchbox Cars That You Should Keep an Eye Out For?
Some Matchbox cars are more valuable than others! Matchbox collectors should keep an eye out for these factors that contribute to the value of Matchbox cars.
Factory Errors
Some of the most valuable cars are worth more because of some sort of factory mishap, such as inverted colors, limited runs of a specific color, or unique colors for the undercarriage.
Original Production Years
When a Matchbox car was produced in the first run of any specific model, it tends to be more valuable than those produced in subsequent years.
Condition
As with most collectibles, the better condition the car is in, the more valuable it will be.
Original Box Included
The pricing of a Matchbox car is seriously impacted by its packaging. Those in the original box are worth more than loose vehicles. Even wrecked packaging can contribute to the value of the vehicle.
Rare Matchbox Cars
If a car is extremely rare or hard to come by, it will hold more value than one that is common.
Where to Find Valuable & Rare Matchbox Cars
If you are looking to start collecting Matchbox cars, you may be wondering about the best places to find them. Matchbox cars are still available in many toy stores, but if you are on the lookout for rare and valuable Matchbox cars, you should consider scouring the internet for them. Matchbox cars can be purchased on auction sites, such as eBay.
FAQs
Are Matchbox and Hot Wheels owned by the same company?
Matchbox and Hot Wheels have long been competitors of each other, but today both companies are owned by toy giant Mattel.
How do I know if my Matchbox cars are valuable?
Do your research on your specific model of Matchbox car to determine how valuable it is. Check out auction sites, such as eBay, and see what your car is selling for. Be sure to consider other factors, such as condition and whether or not your car has the original packaging. Both of these factors can have a huge impact on value. If you have a car that has a factory error, such as reverse colors, that can also contribute to its value.
With most Matchbox cars, older vehicles tend to be more valuable than those produced in recent years. When a Matchbox car was produced in the first run of any specific model, it tends to be more valuable than those produced in subsequent years. So do your research on your particular model to see what value it holds!
How can I sell Matchbox cars?
You can opt to sell your Matchbox cars to a vintage toy store or pawn shop, but you’ll likely get the most money for your cars if you sell them on an auction site such as eBay. It might require a bit more effort, but in the end, that could pay off big time.
It was in 1975, when Paul Whitecotton was 15 years old, that his interest in vintage safety razors was sparked. His parents purchased an old farm, and the people who lived there had left a bunch of things behind. “I came across an old cigar box full of safety razors. I was fascinated with one in particular, a Segal which I had never seen before. When you twisted the Segal, the top came out. I still have that razor!”
Paul is interested in engineering and design, and he found the engineering of the old razors interesting. In 2003, his father passed away and Paul inherited his Gillette superspeed. “One day, about 4 or 5 years ago, I was shaving with it, and I wondered if they were on eBay. I found out they were worth about $35, so I decided to buy another one. That started my collection that I’ve got!”
Today, Paul owns over 500 unique safety razors, as well as some sharpening tools and vintage advertisements. His collection includes an 1880 Kampfe razor, which was patented in 1876 according to the handle of the razor. Many of his razors date back to the 1880s, when the Kampfe brothers were a popular manufacturer of razors. He also owns a Gillette Fatboy, of which there are just 36 in existence. He also has a razor from 1904, a Gillette Double Ring Razor. These were only produced for about a year before they switched to a Single Ring. His favorite piece is probably his 1958 Gillette Bottom Dial Razor.
Paul tries to keep the razors in their original boxes when he can, as this adds to their value. He’s purchased some razors for just $5, but others he has paid a much steeper price for. His 1958 Gillette Bottom Dial Razor is the most valuable one his owns, with its worth being a couple thousand dollars. He also has a 1960 Gillette Toggle razor worth around $750.
Paul’s collection is stored in his home in fourteen different display cases, which his wife, Lisa, refers to as a museum. Lisa’s rule is that he must display what he collects – he can’t put it in storage. The cases are organized by type as best they can be, with different types and brands of razors grouped together.
Collecting things of all kinds can be an exciting and invigorating pastime. People collect for a variety of reasons. Some enjoy the thrill of the hunt, and they will sort through thrift stores, antique stores, and eBay listings filled with enthusiasm for finding the perfect item to add to their collection. Others enjoy history, and love learning about the story behind the items they collect. Still others love the idea of preserving the past, and view their collection as a means of saving items that others might look past or toss away.
Collecting can be a very time-consuming and expensive hobby. If you are interested in collecting, it’s important to take some time for self-reflection. There are so many possibilities when it comes to collecting, and you’ll want to consider the best route for you to take. Read on to learn what factors you should consider, what the most popular things to collect are, plus find a list of some of the more unusual items that people collect.
Factors to Consider Before Starting Your Own Collection
If you are considering making collecting your hobby, there are some factors to consider. You’ll want to determine what you are interested in, how much money you have to invest into collecting, and how much storage space you have for the items you will collect. Read on to learn more about these important factors!
Your Interests
The first factor to consider when developing a collection is your interests. What catches your attention? What are you passionate about? You shouldn’t invest a lot of time and money into collecting something that you don’t care about very much.
Think about your favorite television shows, movies, games, and hobbies. Do you enjoy the thrill of the hunt when it comes thrift store shopping? You may want to collect antiques. Do you love watching Marvel movies? You may want to collect Marvel-themed collectibles, such as action figures or movie posters. Do you enjoy pop culture in general? Funko Pops come in a variety of different characters from every sport, tv show, and movie imaginable, and they might be the perfect collectible for your.
Your Budget
Collecting can easily become an expensive hobby, especially depending on the type of items you wish you collect. Keep this in mind when deciding what type of collection you’d like to have.
If you have a tight budget, consider more budget-friendly collectible items, such as postcards and stamps. You can also start small, by collecting just a few items and allow your collection to grow gradually with time.
Storage and Display Space
How you will store your collection is an important consideration. If you live in a small space, you may not have adequate storage space for a large collection. Some items such as baseball cards, can easily be stored in albums. Comic books typically are stored in comic book boxes to keep them safe from the sun. However, some items, such as fine china, art, Funko Pops, and statues, require lots of display space. Many collectors will display some of their collection and put some in storage. If you don’t have enough space in your home, you can purchase a storage unit for additional items. But if you want to display everything, you’ll need to keep in mind the space you have available.
Time Commitment
Starting and maintaining a collection can be incredibly time consuming! You may find yourself pouring through thrift shops and antique stores for the perfect item to add to your collection, or scouring eBay for comic books that will complete a series.
If you are collecting something that’s rare or hard to come by, you may find collecting to be even more time consuming. If you’re often busy with other commitments, consider collections that are easier to put together.
Investment
Many collectors actually consider themselves to be investors as well. This is because some collections get to be so expensive that their value could fund your retirement. If you are collecting pricier items, remember to consider their value as an investment. Keep your items in tip top shape and take measures to protect them, as you would with a monetary investment. Some collectors will even sell parts of their collection in order to raise money for bigger purchases.
What Do People Collect? The Most Common Collection Items:
Coins
Coins are among the most popular items to collect, and a collector of coins is often referred to as a “numismatist.” You can collect coins from a variety of countries and in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Coins have a lot of history behind them, so if you are interested in knowing the story behind the items you collect, this could be a great hobby for you!
Postage stamp with skier on album close-up
Stamps
Stamps are another classic collectible item. In fact, Collectibles Insurance Services was started by an avid stamp collector. Collecting stamps can be tricky, as it requires that you have a lot of knowledge of stamps and which ones are valuable. If you’re interested in taking on this hobby, be sure to check out our guide to investing in collectible stamps.
Baseball Cards and Sports Cards
Sports cards are a classic collectible item, and they are still popular to this day. While older and rare cards, such as Jackie Robinson rookie card, tend to be more valuable than newer cards, they are always fun to collect.
Valencia, Spain – May 10, 2019: Pokemon Trading Card Game, fondness for the collectibles of children of all ages, fans of the Pokemon RPGs.
Pokémon Cards
First introduced in 1996, Pokémon cards have steadily gained popularity as a collectible item. They even experienced another recent surge in popularity during the pandemic, when collectors had extra free time on their hands to sort through their existing collection and add to it.
Magic the Gathering is a popular tabletop collectible card game, and it was the first trading card game ever released. It can be played by two or more players, and the game has a fantasy element that makes it all the more exciting to play. If you enjoy gaming, Magic the Gathering could be a fun thing for your to collect.
Comic Books
Comics are a hot collectible item, and they also make a great investment! The most popular comic book publishers are Marvel and DC Comics, but there’s quite a wide variety of other publishers to choose from. Comics are adored for their bright colors, vivid artwork, and interesting storylines.
If you enjoy reading interesting stories or are captivated by comic art, then this could be a great option for you. If you’re interested in pursuing this fun hobby, be sure to check out our guide to buying comic books.
Kyiv, Ukraine – December 07, 2019: Funko POP! toys for sale in the store.
Funko Pops
Funko Pops are among the most popular things to collect. You may have seen Funko Pops for sale at your local toy or hobby shop. The figures themselves have big, cartoony heads paired with little bodies. They feature a wide variety of characters from pop culture, with everything from sports stars to television and movie characters. They are most valuable when kept in the original packaging, so most collectors display them in their boxes.
The great thing about Funko Pops is their variety. They cover so many pop culture icons and there’s something for everyone to enjoy, no matter what their interest. To learn more about this cool collectible, be sure to read our blog post about what makes Funko Pops so popular.
Action Figures
Action figures featuring characters from comics, movies, and television are a hot collectible item. These figures can feature anything from action heroes to sports stars, or even vintage figures such as the G.I. Joe. This is a good collectible for a variety of budgets, as figures can range from a few dollars to a few thousand dollars. Be sure to keep your figures in their original packaging, as this is how they hold their value.
Vintage Toys
Vintage toys are cool things to collect, and the draw here is truly the nostalgia. People who collect toys often go for items that they had during their childhood, or they seek to obtain items that they always wanted but never actually owned. Collecting vintage toys is a fun hobby and a great way to relive your younger years.
Dolls
Popular collectible dolls include Barbie, American Girl, Madam Alexander, and more! You can opt for fine china dolls or for something more durable, such as Barbie or American Girl. Prices vary, and you can find a doll that fits your budget. Another aspect of doll collecting is collecting doll clothing, which can allow you to change the look of your doll – you can even get creative and design their clothing yourself!
A fragment of a painting depicting a young girl. Blue-eyed girl with a pigtail. Oil painting on canvas.
Fine Art
Fine art is a popular collectible item, and there are a wide variety of genres to choose from. You can collect anything from modern art to traditional art to impressionism. There are also a wide variety of mediums to choose from, from status to paintings.
China & Glassware
China and glassware is a popular collectible item! You can collect everything from Fenton Art Glass to Blue Willow china, and much more. One consideration with this collection is display space. You’ll definitely need to have adequate room in your china cabinet(s) to showcase your collection – and you’ll want to care for the pieces properly to ensure that nothing breaks.
Antiques
Antiques are a popular collector’s item, and they span a lot of categories. You can collect antique furniture, glassware, toys, clothing, and more. They exciting thing about collecting antiques is the thrill of the hunt. It’s fun to scour antique stores, thrift stores, and eBay listings to find the perfect item to add to your own collection. This husband and wife duo love collecting antiques.
Model Cars
Model cars are a highly-sought after collectible item. Many model car collectors use the hobby as a less expensive outlet in place of their desire to collect cars, and they will add to their collection of modern and vintage cars based on their favorite full-sized vehicles that they would like to own. Model cars come in a variety of designs and in different scales. Check out this incredible model car collection for inspiration.
Image from Corina Robert’s Model Horse Collection
Model Horses
Model horses are a popular collectible item, and there’s a large community to go along with this hobby. A popular pastime is posing the model horses in miniature scenery and taking beautiful photos of them in that space. Breyer horses are the most well-known brand of mode horse. Check out this cool collection of model horses to get some ideas.
Wine & Spirits
Wine and whiskey lovers often start their own collection of their favorite bottles. This hobby can be a bit more expensive, and you may want to consider whether you can keep so many bottle of wine or spirts arounds without imbibing. Collecting wine and whiskey can be a great investment option, as the value tends to increase over the years.
Vinyl Records
Vinyl records are a popular collectible item for music lovers. You can buy vintage records, which are the most popular to collect, or you can opt for new releases of current music. Collectors of vinyl records tend to store and display the records in their home as they would be shown in an actual record store.
Petroliana
Petroliana refers to gas station collectibles, which includes everything from stunning vintage signage to old gas pumps. This collectible has a very unique vintage look, which is why it holds appeal for collectors.
Model Trains
Model Trains
Model trains are a classic collectible, and it can be fun to set up an entire miniature world. Model train collectors need a lot of space to set up their model trains, so be sure to keep that in mind if you’re interested in the hobby.
Video Games
Video games have become popular things to collect – and they can be very expensive to obtain. The most valuable are those that are still factory-sealed. This is a rare find because most people wouldn’t spend a lot of money on a video game just to leave it in the box. One collector put together an investment group in order to purchase some of the more expensive games he wanted to procure.
Most Unusual Things People Collect
People collect some strange and unusual things! Here are just a few of the unique collectible items that we help insure.
Vintage Sewing Machines
Vintage sewing machines are a popular collectible item – and they have a surprisingly large community behind them. If you enjoy sewing, this could be a great hobby for you. Many collectors of sewing machines enjoy the quality that comes with purchasing older machines. If they are well cared for, some of them can remain in working order for many years.
Stadium Seats
Seats from baseball stadiums are a great collectible item. They come in a variety of unique designs, and they can look incredible when displayed side by side. Collecting stadium seats is a great way to preserve history, but it’s also on the pricier side. They also take up a lot of space. Get inspired by checking out this unique collection of stadium seats.
Turkey Calls
A turkey call is a device that makes a turkey sound. It is used when hunting turkeys because they are attracted to the sound. This may sound like an unusual item to collect, but there are actually quite a few people that collect turkey calls. Check out this collector’s unique assortment of turkey calls.
Elvis Collectibles
Elvis Presley may be one of the most popular singers of all time, and collectibles related to him can be in high demand. This collector has assembled a museum of Elvis collectibles that he intends to use to fund his retirement.
Jukeboxes & Arcade Games
Jukeboxes and arcade games are popular things to collect, but they can be quite expensive and take up a lot of space in one’s home, making them ideal for people who have a lot of extra space. This collector loves to display jukeboxes throughout his home.
Cool Things to Collect that will be Worth Money in the Future
Comic Books
Comic books are popular things to collect and invest in. Some books – especially those from the 1970s and earlier – are worth money and can fetch a high price tag on the secondary market. The value of comic books also tends to go up with a movie is released about the character featured in the book. Check out our blog post for more tips for investing in comic books.
Baseball Cards
Baseball cards are an item that can carry a lot of value. Rare and vintage baseball cards tend to hold the most value. You’ll also want to keep your cards in good condition, which means placing them in baseball card holders and keep them away from direct sunlight. Check out our tips for the best baseball cards to buy in 2023 to get your collection started.
Funko Pops
Funko Pops are another collectible that tends to go up in value, or at least holds its value. Some pops are worth much more than others, with rare or in-demand pops fetching the highest price. Be sure to keep your pops in their original packaging, and keep that packaging in excellent condition. There are even hard cases you can use to store the pop boxes.
Fine Art
Another high-value collectible is fine art, which tends to go up in value over the years. Be sure that you are storing your art properly and taking good care of it to ensure it retains its value for the future. Check out our guide to artwork protection for more tips.
FAQs
How to start collecting as a hobby?
To start collecting as a hobby, you’ll want to first consider what your interests are, how much space you have in your home for storage and display, and what your budget is for collecting. Considering these factors can help you select a collectible item that is most suited to you.
What are the most unique things to collect?
Some unique yet popular collectible items include sewing machines, jukeboxes, stadium seats, turkey calls, and even Elvis collectibles.
What are the hottest collectibles right now?
Some of the most popular collectible items are tabletop gaming cards, such as Magic the Gathering and Pokémon; baseball cards and sports cards, comics, and Funko Pops.
Gold jewelry is a popular collectible item – and it’s also a popular investment option. Did you know that your beautiful gold baubles can actually be a great way to hedge against inflation? They are also a great way to diversify your investment portfolio, as the value of gold tends to hold steady in the face of poor stock market performance and economic uncertainty.
Wondering whether or not you should add gold jewelry to your investment portfolio? Read on to learn the advantages (and disadvantages) of investing in gold, tips for determining the value of gold jewelry, and other gold options that you could potentially invest in.
Gold Rings
What are the advantages of investing in gold?
Owning physical gold is a great investment option for many reasons. Read on to learn just a few of the many reasons why you should buy gold as part of your investment portfolio.
Holds its value: Historically, physical gold has held its value. This quality makes it a great way to hedge against inflation. As a matter of fact, we tend to see rising gold prices whenever the cost of living increases. When the US dollar isn’t performing well, or even during times of economic or political uncertainty, gold tends to increase in value. Gold also tends to do well when the stock market isn’t performing. People are encouraged to purchase gold as protection whenever their local currency is shrinking in value.
Limited supply: The fact that gold is in limited supply has a huge impact on its value. Since 2000, the production of new gold from mines has been declining, and it can take a gold mining company between 5-10 years to bring a new mine into production. This leads to scarcity, which makes gold all the more valuable.
Increasing demand: The recent increase in wealth of emerging market economies has greatly increased the demand for gold. In the country of China, gold bars are a traditional form of saving, so gold is always in demand.
In the country of India, the second largest consumer of gold in the world, gold is in demand for making jewelry, as well as for other purposes. The wedding season in India takes place in October, and is a time of year when the demand for gold increases. Gold is also a popular choice among investors, as more people are looking to invest in commodities such as gold.
Diversification of your portfolio: Diversifying your investment portfolio means investing in different options that are not correlated to each other. Gold typically has had a negative correlation to the stock market, as well as to other financial assets.
Tangible asset:Unlike many traditional investments, physical gold is a tangible asset that can be held in your hand and kept in your possession. Physical gold is considered a more stable investment than gold stocks. Gold stocks function similar to the stock market. Also known as paper gold, gold stocks are when you invest in a company that has connections to gold, such as a gold mining company. They tend to be safer than the traditional stock market, but again, they are not considered as stable as physical gold.
Gold Earrings
Are there Risks in Gold as Investment?
As with any investment, gold has its risks. Read on to learn some of the potential pitfalls of investing in gold.
Lack of long-term appreciation
Although gold may sometimes outperform other assets, the value may not appreciate as much in the long term. Putting too much money into this asset could prevent long-term gains, especially if you are trying to save up money for retirement. The S&P 500 index has climbed much higher than gold over a five-year period.
Counterfeiting
If you are looking to buy physical gold, there is always the possibility of counterfeiting. You’ll want to make sure that you are purchasing gold from a reputable seller. When in doubt, have an expert examine the gold you plan to purchase to ensure that it is the real deal.
Storage & Insurance Costs
With physical gold, there are some additional costs that you may incur. First, you’ll need somewhere to store the gold. Gold takes up space! Depending on how much you have, you may be able to store it in a safe in your home, or in a separate secure storage facility.
Another cost you will incur is insuring your physical gold. There is always the possibility of a break-in resulting in the theft of your gold. You can protect yourself from this risk by purchasing insurance coverage.
Gold Jewelry
How to Evaluate Gold Jewelry?
When purchasing gold jewelry for investment purposes, it’s important to be able to evaluate the quality of the jewelry to determine the value. Here are some factors to consider:
Purity
Look for stamps on your jewelry that indicate your gold’s purity by the karats. 24 karat gold is considered pure gold. 18 karat gold contains 75% gold and 14 karat gold contains 58.3% gold.
Weight
Once you determine the purity of your gold jewelry, you can weigh your gold jewelry on a scale and calculate its value based on weight.
Workmanship
The quality of the workmanship by the marker of your gold jewelry will impact the value of the piece. Unique or intricate jewelry designs can help raise the value of the piece. Be sure to invest in pieces by makers known for their quality work!
Brand Reputation
If the gold jewelry comes from a well-known brand, it may be worth a bit more than from a lesser-known brand.
Gold Ring
Storing and protecting your gold jewelry
When investing in a physical asset such as gold jewelry, it’s important to take the proper precautions to protect it. Here are some tips for protecting your precious investment:
Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity: Jewelry should be stored at room temperature and kept out of direct sunlight. It’s also important that the jewelry is stored in low humidity – this will prevent tarnishing and discoloration.
Choose a safe location: You’ll want to store your gold jewelry in a secure location that will reduce the risk of theft. A safe deposit box or home safe will provide an extra layer of protection.
Get insurance: Finally, it’s important to make sure that your fine gold jewelry is properly insured, which will protect you in the event of loss or damage.
Alternatives to Gold Jewelry Investing
There are other types of gold you can invest in besides jewelry. These include gold coins, gold bars, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mining stocks, and gold futures. Read on to learn more about these alternative forms of investing in gold.
Gold coins: Gold coins are considered a low-risk investment option, and they are relatively easy to buy. You can purchase historical coins, collectible coins, rare coins, or gold coins that are legal tender and issued by the government.
Gold bars: If you choose to invest in gold bars, it’s important to buy bars that have the name of the manufacturer, the weight, and the purity stamped on them. Royal Canadian Mint, Perth Mint, and Valcambi are popular mints that create gold bars.
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs): Rather than purchasing physical gold, you can choose to invest in an ETF. A gold ETF allows investors to expose their portfolio to gold without having to purchase, store, or resell it. Some ETFs will track the price of gold directly, but others invest in a gold mining company.
Gold futures: According to Schwab.com, “gold futures are standardized, exchange-traded contracts in which the contract buyer agrees to take delivery, from the seller, a specific quantity of gold at a predetermined price on a future delivery date.” Gold futures allow companies the opportunity to hedge their gold price risk on the expected future purchase or sale of gold. They are often bought as an anti-inflation hedge.
FAQs
What factors affect the price of gold jewelry?
The value of gold jewelry is first determined by its purity and weight. 24K gold is considered pure gold, while other karat options only contain a percentage of gold. Once you know the purity level, you can weigh gold to help determine its value. When it comes to jewelry, the workmanship and brand can also have an impact on value.
Is investing in gold a good idea right now?
Investing in gold is a great way to diversify your portfolio and add some stability and protection against inflation. It’s important that you invest in other options besides gold, as gold doesn’t gain as much value over the long haul as other investment options.
Tim Boyd first started building model cars in the early 1960s, and he quickly began to compete in contests at the national level. In his college years, he began to realize that he could find and collect older model car kits that were no longer available brand new for a very reasonable price. It was then that he became an avid kit collector.
In addition to collecting, Tim wrote articles about model cars for magazines such as Street Rodder and Scale Auto Magazine. Some of these articles included kit histories, wherein he would take a genre such as muscle cars, hot rods, or pickup trucks and put together a photographic and informational summary of all the older, no longer available kits. He also has written several books about model car collecting.
His experience writing about model car kits has allowed him to become more knowledgeable and active in the hobby itself. It has also provided a great backdrop for his successful career in the automotive industry, where he worked at a senior level in both marketing and design for many years. “A lot of people in the auto industry have built and/or collected model cars,” he explains. “The model car world is a subset of the overall automotive world. A lot of people who have a favorite full-size car have a kit that replicates that car.”
The first kit that Tim ever bought was a Revel replica of a 1962 Dodge Lancer GT Hardtop. “I glued it together and it looked horrible, but as a seven-year-old, I was happy with it.” The first kit that he purchased as a serious collector was in 1974, when he purchased the first production issue of the AMT Trophy Series George Barris Ala Kart Double Kit, which was introduced in 1962.
The modern era model car kit hobby got started in 1958 with AMT’s “3 in 1” customizing kits, and it picked up steam in the early 1960s. At that time, many young boys were building model cars. The majority of kits in Tim’s collection are from the 1960s and onward. “Today, model car collecting is an adult hobby, and a lot of people collect kits,” he shares. “It’s something people enjoy doing as it reminds them of a younger part of their life. You can participate in the automotive hobby without paying for the maintenance, insurance, and storage of a real classic car.”
There are several thousand kits in Tim’s collection. As far as his collection goes, Tim considers it to be nothing special in comparison to other collectors, as there are people with much larger collections than what he has. Everything he has is kept in a storage facility and is organized by type, such as semi-trucks, trailers, muscle cars, hot rods, racing kits, and European exotics.
Keeping his collection organized has been helpful for Tim as he continues to write articles and books about collecting for magazines such as Fine Scale Modeler and Model Cars Magazine. His two recently published books are a great resource for those interested in collecting, and they provide a lot of background, including the history of kit makers and why certain kits are more valuable than others. Collecting Muscle Car Model Kits was published in 2018 and Collecting Drag Racing Model Kits was published in 2020, both by CarTech Publications.
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.”
