Funko Pops – Collecting and Trading Cute Vinyl Figurines

Funko Pop! collectible vinyl figures have become one of the most recognizable and sought-after collectibles of the past few years. Though these simply designed pieces may look cute and harmless, the amount of love and devotion devoted to them is anything but! From massive collections of hundreds of figures to weekly trips to stores to hunt for the newest releases, Pop! collectors are quite dedicated to their hobby.

What Are Funko Pops?

Funko Pop! figures are 3.75 inch tall vinyl figures in a exaggerated bobble-head style. They were created and distributed by the Funko toy company in 2010. The series had a successful launch with only 14 characters, featuring popular characters from movies, TV shows, and video games. They frequently feature characters in their classic, iconic poses; for example, a stand-out Pop! of Harry Potter donning his classic wizard outfit and holding his wand.

Pop! figures are released in two different versions: common and more rare, collectible versions. Common characters are often found in stores, while more rare versions are often found online. Common characters have no decal or symbol to designate them differently from the standard edition. Collectible versions, however, have a black or red F in the bottom left of the figure and a colored sticker detailed with their rarity. This feature makes it easier for collecting purposes.

The Value of Collecting Funko Pops

Many different motives drive people to collect Funko Pops. Some wind up collecting large amounts because of the pleasure of seeing their favourite characters come to life. Others may chase the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of adding new Pop’s to their shelf. Many potential Pop! buyers are enthralled by the potential value of their collections.

As with any collectible, price is determined based on the amount of love shown by a fandom. For example, a rare figure of Tony Stark from Marvel’s Iron Man films could have a higher value than a standard figure. Collectors usually receive a return on their investment, as prices for rare figures can increase over time if demand remains or grows.

The Community of Pop Collectors

Pop! Collectors from all walks of life have a strong sense of camaraderie and kinship with fellow collectors. Trading Pops with others is a way to both connect with fellow enthusiast and also to obtain figurines outside of the traditional retail routes. Many collectors take part in online communities, such as Reddit’s Pop! Trading Subreddit. Trading within these groups can often result in interesting conversations, sharing of ideas, and even the making of permanent friendships.

Despite all of the different motives, everyone involved in the Pop! community is passionate about the same thing: their love of Pop! figures and the universe they come from. The collectibles are so much more than just a toy: they bring people together to discuss and share the characters they know and love.

Conclusion

The Funko Pop! series of collectible vinyl figures is an ever-expanding, creative empire of fandom and fandom-love. With the thrill of the hunt and a strong camaraderie to connect collectors from every corner of the globe, this series of figures is worth much more than the plastic and vinyl from which they are made.