Top 5 Signs an Action Figure Will Rise in Value

Thinking of buying that Godzilla or DBZ figure you’ve been eyeing? Whether you’re new to collecting or a seasoned flipper, spotting a future grail before it spikes in value can feel like a superpower. In this guide, we’ll break down the top five signs an action figure is likely to increase in value, and why savvy collectors are always watching for them.

1. Limited Production Runs and Convention Exclusives

One of the most reliable indicators of long-term value is scarcity. Figures released in limited quantities, especially at conventions like San Diego Comic-Con or Wonder Festival, often become holy grails once the supply dries up.

Insider Tip:

• Look for phrases like “1st Edition,” “Limited Run,” “Convention Exclusive,” or “Only X Made.”
• Example: The SH Figuarts Dragonball GT Super Android 17 had a $95 MSRP, but its low production volume and unique sculpt helped push resale prices on eBay to $130+ within months of release.
  

2. Strong Licensing & Fan Demand

Figures tied to popular IPs with multigenerational fanbases (like Dragon Ball Z, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Godzilla) tend to have strong staying power. New movies, series, or game releases can reignite demand for older figures.

Why it Matters:

• A licensed figure from Bandai, NECA, or McFarlane is more likely to hold value than bootleg or off-brand copies.
• Example: Godzilla Minus One sparked renewed interest in Showa-era and Heisei Godzilla figures, with some vintage NECA Godzilla models now selling for 4x their original price.
  

3. Mint Condition & Grade-Worthy Packaging

Just like sports cards or Pokémon, mint condition matters. Collectors pay a premium for figures that are:

• Still sealed (MISB: Mint in Sealed Box)
• Free from sun damage or yellowing
• In clean, undented, scratch-free packaging

Grading Matters:

• Services like CAS (Collector Archive Services) or AFA (Action Figure Authority) offer slabbed grading for action figures.
• A graded 9.5 TMNT Raphael from 1988 might fetch 5-10x more than an ungraded loose version.

4. Character Popularity and Variant Rarity

Main characters almost always outperform supporting cast in value, but unique variants and alt outfits (especially from pivotal story arcs) can become high-demand items.

Collector Tip:

• Watch for figures with:
  
  • Alternate colorways
  • Battle-damaged sculpts
  • Glow-in-the-dark or chase variants

Example: The Banpresto Clearise Gohan Beast from Dragon Ball Super originally retailed at $25, but its unique sculpt and anime relevance have helped it maintain strong aftermarket pricing.

5. Positive Sales Trends & Collector Hype

Monitor eBay “Sold” listings, Facebook collector groups, and price trackers. A figure with multiple sold listings over retail price is likely heating up.

Watch for:

• Steady resale increases over the past 3–6 months
• Mentions in collector YouTube channels or Beckett blogs
• Appearance in “Top 10 To Watch” investment guides

Data Snapshot: According to Beckett’s Dragon Ball Z Collector Guide, Dragon Ball Super figures saw a 38% uptick in average resale price after the 2022 movie release.

Bonus: FAQs for Aspiring Action Figure Investors

Q: Is it worth grading modern figures?
A: Only if they’re mint, sealed, and have investment potential—like convention exclusives or limited Bandai releases.

Q: How do I store figures to maintain value?
A: Keep them away from heat, humidity, and sunlight. Use UV-blocking cases and store upright to prevent warping.

Q: Should I open or keep them sealed?
A: If you’re collecting for investment, always keep sealed. Opened figures lose 50–80% of resale value.

Final Thoughts: Train Your Eye Like a Pro

Spotting a valuable collectible isn’t about guessing; it’s about knowing what to look for. Limited editions, strong licenses, pristine packaging, character popularity, and market signals all play a role in predicting which action figures will go from $20 to $200 and beyond.

Spot a future grail, browse our rarest finds before prices skyrocket!

Explore exclusive Godzilla action figures, Dragon Ball Z collectibles, and more at Dattoystore.