What happens if you collect all 100 action figures?

What Happens If You Collect All 100 Action Figures?

Collecting action figures is a hobby that combines passion for a specific franchise or character with the thrill of completing a set. When you reach the milestone of collecting all 100 action figures in a series, the rewards can range from personal satisfaction to financial gains. Here's a look at what happens when you collect all 100 action figures:

1. Personal Satisfaction and Achievement

• Sense of Accomplishment: One of the most fulfilling aspects of collecting action figures is the sense of achievement that comes with completing a set. Whether it's a specific series from your favorite show, movie, or game, having all the figures in your collection allows you to feel like you've reached a goal.
• Pride in Your Collection: For collectors, action figures often represent a deep connection to the characters and stories they love. Completing the collection allows you to proudly display every figure, knowing you've acquired all of them over time.
• Storytelling: A full collection of action figures can also allow you to tell stories. For example, you might arrange them in epic battles, recreate movie scenes, or display them in a way that highlights their individual characteristics. A completed collection opens up endless possibilities for storytelling.

2. Increased Value (Potential Investment)

• Rarity and Value: In some cases, completing an action figure set can increase the overall value of the collection. Rare or limited-edition action figures, especially those from well-known franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, or Transformers, can become highly valuable over time. Some figures might even skyrocket in value once they are no longer in production or become harder to find.
• Financial Return: Some collectors treat their action figures as an investment. Once you have a complete set of rare or collectible figures, you may be able to sell them at a premium. For example, the Star Wars action figures from the 1970s and 1980s have been known to fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars per figure, especially in mint condition.
• Limited Edition Sets: Many action figures are released in limited numbers. Collecting all 100 figures of a limited edition set can be particularly valuable in the long run, especially if the figures were part of a special run or were only available for a short period.

3. Community Recognition

• Respect in the Collector’s Community: Collectors who manage to complete an entire set of action figures, especially from a popular franchise, often gain respect and recognition from other fans and collectors. It can lead to invites to conventions, participation in special groups, or even collaborations with other collectors.
• Trading Opportunities: Having a complete collection can open up opportunities for trading with other collectors who are seeking specific figures. Whether you trade figures to complete another set or exchange duplicates, your standing in the community can increase with a complete collection.

4. Display and Decoration

• Showcasing Your Collection: With 100 action figures, your collection becomes more than just an assortment of toys. It transforms into a display piece in your home or office. Depending on your space, you can dedicate entire shelves, display cabinets, or even a room to showcase your figures in organized or thematic ways.
• Custom Displays: For those who want to take it a step further, collecting all 100 action figures allows for custom displays or dioramas that replicate scenes from movies, TV shows, or comic books. Some collectors go all out, designing elaborate backgrounds and settings to showcase their figures in action.

5. Sense of Nostalgia

• Reliving Memories: Collecting action figures is often a way to relive memories of childhood or a specific time in life. Each figure in the collection might remind you of a particular episode, movie, or comic book arc. Reaching the 100 figure milestone can evoke nostalgia and a sense of joy tied to the characters and stories they represent.
• Passing on the Tradition: For collectors with children or younger family members, having a complete set of action figures can become a bonding experience. It can also serve as a way to introduce younger generations to the franchises and characters that shaped your own childhood.

6. Obsession or Overwhelm

• The Never-Ending Hunt: Collecting 100 action figures can sometimes feel like an obsession. Some collectors may find themselves constantly hunting for rare or missing figures, dedicating significant time and money to complete the collection. This pursuit can sometimes become overwhelming if the hunt turns into a never-ending quest for elusive pieces.
• Storage and Space Issues: As your collection grows, so does the need for more storage. A complete collection of 100 action figures can quickly take up a lot of space, which may require special shelving, display cabinets, or even a dedicated room for your collection. This can lead to storage challenges and the need for creative solutions to display your figures.

7. Increased Social Connections

• Fellowship with Fellow Collectors: Reaching the 100-figure milestone may lead you to connect with other collectors who share your passion. Whether it's through online forums, social media groups, or local conventions, you'll likely find yourself in the company of others who admire the same figures and can provide advice, tips, or just friendly conversation about the hobby.
• Collaborations and Events: As a serious collector, you might get invited to special events, product launches, or even join online and offline communities. For example, attending a Comic-Con or Toy Fair event, where collectors gather to discuss their collections and trade figures.

Conclusion

Completing the collection of 100 action figures is a significant achievement for collectors. The process can bring immense satisfaction, financial rewards, and a stronger sense of community. Whether you’re in it for the passion, investment potential, or nostalgia, collecting action figures provides an opportunity to own a piece of entertainment history and connect with others who share your interests. The thrill of the hunt never truly ends, and a completed collection is both a milestone and a stepping stone to even more incredible items.