How to Collect Transformers Action Figures

With the runaway success of the movie, the Transformers are more popular than ever. If you're feeling a touch of nostalgia, you can celebrate your childhood than by collecting the original action figures.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Gobots are to Transformers what Beta was to VHS. Make sure what you buy is a Transformer, not a Gobot, a competing toy that featured a similar "robots transforming into cars" theme. Transformers were usually bigger and sturdier. The Transformers figures also feature the Autobot or Decepticon symbols.

2. As a rule of thumb, the more parts of a toy you have to move, the more likely those parts are to fall off. Whenever buying a classic toy that is not in its original package, inspect its moveable parts and make sure the joints are sturdy and the pieces are original.

3. The popularity of the character sometimes increases the value of the toy. While you might be able to buy two Bumblees in their original packages for the price of what you could pay for one Optimus Prime, it doesn't mean it's the better investment.

4. EBay is always a good place to find collectibles, but don't give up on the old-fashion methods. Transformers are popular on the toy-show circuit, especially since the movie came out. Also, you'd be surprised what you can find at garage sales and flea markets.

Tips & Warnings

• Always inspect toys. Look for repairs, like parts glued back on or bad paint repairs. Both of those affect the value.
• The number of toys produced will affect the value. Look for words like "limited edition."

Resources

• Transformers action figure Website