Are Any Amiibos Worth Money? The Collector’s Guide
Yes, certain Amiibo figures are absolutely worth money, often far more than their original retail price. The value of an Amiibo is determined by a complex interplay of factors, including rarity, condition, demand, and production errors. While most Amiibos can be purchased for reasonable prices, some have become highly sought-after collector’s items.
Decoding Amiibo Value: A Deep Dive
The world of Amiibo collecting can seem daunting at first, but understanding the core principles that drive value will help you navigate the market effectively. Think of it like investing: knowledge is power, and understanding the market dynamics is key to spotting a good opportunity.
Rarity: The King of Value
Rarity is the most significant driver of Amiibo value. Certain Amiibos were produced in limited quantities, either due to being exclusive to specific retailers, tied to limited-edition games, or simply discontinued early in their production run. These figures are harder to find, creating higher demand and therefore, higher prices.
Examples of notoriously rare Amiibos include:
- The Villager (Animal Crossing): Especially the first print with a noticeable forehead issue.
- Little Mac (Punch-Out!!): Early production runs were limited.
- Gold Mario (Super Mario): Released as a Walmart exclusive, leading to shortages.
- Meta Knight (Kirby): Exclusively sold at Best Buy.
These figures regularly command prices significantly above their original MSRP.
Condition: Mint in Box (MIB) is Gold
Condition is paramount when assessing Amiibo value. A Mint In Box (MIB) Amiibo, meaning it’s still sealed in its original packaging and in pristine condition, will always fetch the highest price. Even a slight crease or tear in the packaging can significantly reduce the value.
Loose Amiibos (out-of-box) still hold value, especially if they are in excellent condition. However, they will typically sell for less than their MIB counterparts. Factors like paint quality, scratches, and general wear and tear all influence the price.
Demand: What People Want
Demand plays a critical role in Amiibo pricing. Even if an Amiibo is relatively rare, its value will be limited if few people are actively seeking to purchase it. Popular characters from beloved franchises tend to command higher prices.
For example, characters from the Legend of Zelda and Super Mario series often have a higher demand than less mainstream characters. This demand is often tied to the utility of the Amiibo in compatible games. Figures that unlock valuable in-game content tend to be more desirable.
Production Errors: The Quirks that Pay Off
Production errors can drastically increase the value of an Amiibo. These errors are often unique and make the figure one-of-a-kind, driving up their collectibility. Examples include:
- Misprinted packaging.
- Paint defects.
- Physical deformities.
These errors are often difficult to verify, so authenticity is crucial when considering purchasing an error Amiibo.
Where to Buy and Sell Amiibos: Navigating the Market
Several online marketplaces are popular for buying and selling Amiibos:
- eBay: The largest online auction site, offering a wide selection of Amiibos.
- Mercari: A popular app for buying and selling used goods, including Amiibos.
- Facebook Marketplace: A local option for finding deals and connecting with other collectors.
- Dedicated Amiibo forums and communities: Places where collectors share information and trade Amiibos.
When buying Amiibos online, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the seller, check their feedback, and carefully examine the product photos to ensure authenticity and condition.
Amiibo Investment: Is it a Good Idea?
While some Amiibos have proven to be valuable investments, it’s important to approach Amiibo collecting with caution. The market can be volatile, and prices can fluctuate based on trends and re-releases.
Consider these points before investing in Amiibos:
- Do your research: Understand the factors that influence Amiibo value.
- Focus on rare and desirable figures: Target Amiibos with a proven track record of appreciation.
- Prioritize condition: Only purchase Amiibos in excellent or mint condition.
- Be patient: It may take time for the value of your Amiibos to increase.
- Collect for enjoyment: Ultimately, collect Amiibos that you appreciate and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Amiibo Value
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a deeper understanding of Amiibo value:
1. What does “First Print” mean and why is it important?
First Print refers to the initial production run of an Amiibo. These figures are often more desirable due to their perceived rarity and collectibility. Sometimes, first print runs have slight variations or errors that make them even more valuable.
2. How can I tell if an Amiibo is a first print?
Identifying a first print can be tricky. Some collectors look for specific manufacturing details, such as packaging variations or slight differences in the figure’s appearance. Online resources and Amiibo communities can provide valuable information for identifying first prints.
3. Does opening an Amiibo decrease its value?
Yes, opening an Amiibo generally decreases its value, especially for highly sought-after figures. MIB (Mint In Box) Amiibos command the highest prices. However, a loose Amiibo in excellent condition can still hold significant value.
4. What are some common Amiibo production errors?
Common production errors include misprinted packaging, paint defects, and physical deformities. These errors can make an Amiibo more valuable to collectors.
5. How can I verify the authenticity of an Amiibo?
Verifying authenticity can be challenging. Look for official Nintendo branding on the packaging and figure. Compare the figure to photos of authentic Amiibos online. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
6. Are re-released Amiibos as valuable as the original?
Re-released Amiibos are generally less valuable than the original releases, as they are more readily available. However, re-releases can still be desirable to collectors who missed out on the original release.
7. What is the best way to store Amiibos to maintain their value?
Store Amiibos in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Protect them from dust and moisture. For MIB Amiibos, consider using protective cases to prevent damage to the packaging.
8. Do Amiibo cards have any value?
Yes, certain Amiibo cards can be valuable, particularly those from the Animal Crossing series. Rare or exclusive cards can command high prices among collectors.
9. How do I track the value of my Amiibo collection?
Several online resources, such as PriceCharting, allow you to track the value of your Amiibo collection. You can also monitor eBay and other online marketplaces to see what similar Amiibos are selling for.
10. What is the future of Amiibo collecting?
The future of Amiibo collecting is uncertain, as Nintendo’s support for the figures may fluctuate. However, the collectibility of rare and desirable Amiibos is likely to continue, driven by nostalgia and demand from collectors.
11. Are Japanese or European Amiibos more valuable than North American versions?
Generally, the value is determined more by rarity and demand than by the region of origin. However, certain regional exclusives may command higher prices due to their limited availability.
12. How does the utility of an Amiibo in games affect its value?
Amiibos that unlock valuable or exclusive in-game content tend to be more desirable and valuable. Their functionality adds another layer of appeal for gamers and collectors alike.
13. Is it ethical to buy Amiibos just to resell them for a profit?
The ethics of reselling Amiibos are debated. Some argue that it’s acceptable to profit from the demand, while others believe it contributes to artificial scarcity and price gouging. Ultimately, it’s a personal decision.
14. What is the role of online communities in Amiibo collecting?
Online communities play a vital role in Amiibo collecting. They provide platforms for sharing information, identifying rare figures, connecting with other collectors, and buying/selling Amiibos.
15. Where can I learn more about the intersection of games, learning, and society?
You can explore the fascinating world of how video games and learning intersect by visiting the Games Learning Society website at GamesLearningSociety.org. They offer valuable insights into the educational aspects of gaming.
Amiibo collecting can be a fun and rewarding hobby. Whether you’re looking to invest or simply collect your favorite characters, understanding the factors that influence Amiibo value will help you make informed decisions. Remember to do your research, prioritize condition, and collect for enjoyment.