How To Start A Toy Collection
There are many different types of hobbies to help you pass the day. One of the most popular hobbies around is becoming a collector. You can collect anything but one of the most rewarding and fun items to collect are toys. Just because you have a bunch of used toys lying around doesn’t make you a toy collector. There are a set of standards and rules and tips for helping you get the most out of your toy collection.
Before starting your collection think about what in particular you want to start collecting. There are so many toys and options available but what are you interested in? Your collection should be something that you take pride in. If you like cars then start a toy car collection, better yet a vintage toy car collection. If you’re interested in tractors you can start a toy tractor collection, or maybe you like Barbie dolls that is another option.
If you are starting from scratch then you will need to decide on what your budget is to get your collection started. Don’t start off purchasing the most expensive piece that you find because then your collection will consist of just that one item. Try to pick up a few reasonably priced items. It’s ok to start your collection with only a few pieces and then you can accumulate more down the road.
Yard sales, garage sales and estate sales will be your best friend. Start combing through all the sales in your area. Another person’s garbage could ultimately be your best find. If you have collector stores in your area stop by and see what they have to offer. Let them know that you are a collector so that they will think of you when new finds come available. This is a way to make new associates in the collector world.
Don’t forget to use your online resources as well. There are plenty of online auction sites that have all kinds of items available on a daily basis. Be sure to check back randomly to see if any items have popped up that would make a great asset to your collection.
Be sure and do your research on each and every piece that you add to your collection. There are a lot of “fakes” out there so to ensure that you are getting the most for your buck be sure to do some thorough investigating before purchasing any items.
There are few acronyms that you will need to know and understand in the toy collection world. Memorize these phrases because they will be your best friend. MIB stands for mint in box, this means that the packaging has been opened but the item and everything included is still in mint condition. MISB means that the item has NOT been opened; the packaging is still in tact therefore the item is in mint condition. HTF stands for hard to find, so if you ever come across an item in an auction or store that has HTF by it that is an item that you don’t want to pass up.
Once you have the different items for your collection you will want to keep them in a safe place. Don’t just pack them away in a box, then what’s the use of becoming a collector? Be proud of your collection and hard work, a display case is the best way to store a collection. The display case will keep your collectibles safe from harm but also out for your friends and family to see. Display cases can cost a pretty penny but if you research online you could find one at a decent price.
Marley Martinerin is a regular contributor to a number of sites and writes articles about such topics as Transformer toys, and Bumblebee.
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