What is the most expensive anime figure?

Anime figures are a beloved part of the anime fandom, and for many collectors, they’re more than just decorative pieces—they’re investments. With some figures reaching astronomical prices, you may wonder: what is the most expensive anime figure ever sold? In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most expensive and rare anime figures, and the factors that contribute to their hefty price tags.

The Most Expensive Anime Figure

As of recent years, one of the most expensive anime figures ever made is the "Saber - The Sword of Mars" figure, produced by the renowned figure maker Volks. This figure was sold at an astounding price of $2.3 million during an auction. It stands as a perfect example of a luxury figure, designed with incredible attention to detail and crafted from high-quality materials. The figure depicts Saber, a character from the Fate/Stay Night series, holding her iconic sword, and is known for its intricate design and use of premium materials like real gold, diamonds, and rare stones.

Why Are Anime Figures So Expensive?

Several factors contribute to the high price of certain anime figures, especially those that reach the multi-million-dollar range. Let’s break down some of these factors:

1. Limited Editions and Rarity:
   Limited edition figures often carry a much higher price tag due to their scarcity. When only a small number of figures are made, demand increases, and collectors are willing to pay a premium to own something unique. The Saber - The Sword of Mars figure, for example, was produced in a very limited run, which made it extremely rare and valuable.

2. Attention to Detail and Quality:
   High-end figures like the Saber figure are typically made by top-tier manufacturers such as Good Smile Company, Alter, and Kotobukiya, who are known for their exceptional craftsmanship. These figures feature meticulous details, including intricate paintwork, realistic sculpting, and sometimes even lighting effects. The finer the details, the more expensive the figure tends to be.

3. Materials Used:
   Expensive anime figures often incorporate premium materials such as resin, crystal, gold, platinum, and even diamonds in their design. Figures made with these luxurious materials can command astronomical prices, especially when combined with limited editions and renowned craftsmanship.

4. Artist Collaboration and Licensing:
   Some of the most expensive anime figures are created in collaboration with well-known artists or are part of special licensed releases. The Saber - The Sword of Mars figure, for instance, was created with the input of skilled artisans and is a licensed product tied to a popular anime series. The exclusive nature of such collaborations raises the value of the figure.

5. Size and Features:
   Larger figures often come with a higher price tag due to the increased cost of materials, complexity of design, and the time it takes to create them. Some of the most expensive figures feature dynamic poses, moving parts, LED lighting, or other interactive features, all of which increase production costs and, consequently, the selling price.

Other Notable Expensive Anime Figures

While the Saber - The Sword of Mars figure is a clear standout, there are other highly valuable figures that have caught the attention of collectors:

1. "The Pioneers" by ArtFX J (Price: Around $150,000)
   This stunning figure set features characters from JoJo's Bizarre Adventure and was produced by Kotobukiya. The figure set is a limited-edition release, and its high price reflects both its rarity and the exquisite craftsmanship involved in its production.

2. "Shiro" from No Game No Life by Chara-Annex (Price: Around $90,000)
   This figure, based on the character Shiro from the popular anime No Game No Life, is highly sought after due to its beautiful sculpting and high-quality production. With only a few available, its rarity has pushed the price up to significant levels.

3. "Alita: Battle Angel" Life-Size Figure (Price: $90,000+)
   Although not strictly from a traditional anime, the Alita: Battle Angel life-size figure is still considered a part of the anime and manga world. This hyper-realistic, life-sized figure based on the character from the manga Battle Angel Alita is valued at over $90,000. Its incredibly lifelike detail and size contribute to its hefty price tag.

4. "Mikasa Ackerman" by Prime 1 Studio (Price: $6,000 - $8,000)
   Attack on Titan fans will recognize this highly detailed and limited-edition statue of Mikasa Ackerman. The statue stands over 40 inches tall and features intricate details and dynamic effects, making it a collector’s dream for those who are willing to invest.

Are Expensive Anime Figures Worth It?

The answer depends on the perspective of the collector. If you're someone who values rarity, craftsmanship, and the joy of owning a unique piece of anime history, then investing in high-priced figures can be a rewarding experience. Some collectors even see these figures as an investment, hoping their value will increase over time due to scarcity and demand.

However, it’s important to note that not all anime figures will see a dramatic increase in value. As with any investment, there’s always an element of risk involved. Limited edition, high-quality figures from popular anime series generally have a better chance of appreciating in value, but many factors can affect their marketability.

Where to Find Expensive Anime Figures

If you're interested in adding a rare, high-quality figure to your collection, you can find various figures, including those from popular series like Naruto, One Piece, Dragon Ball Z, and more, at trusted stores such as Youwei Trade's Homemade Figures Collection. Whether you’re searching for limited-edition statues, rare collectibles, or highly detailed figures, Youwei Trade offers a range of options to suit every anime fan's taste.

Conclusion

While the Saber - The Sword of Mars figure holds the title of the most expensive anime figure, there are many other highly valued and rare pieces that are coveted by collectors worldwide. Factors such as rarity, craftsmanship, materials, and series popularity all play a role in determining the price of these anime figures. For those who are willing to invest in high-quality, limited-edition pieces, anime figures can be a valuable and rewarding investment—both financially and emotionally.

So, if you're looking to add a rare anime figure to your collection, remember to do your research and consider factors like rarity, condition, and demand. You never know, you might just have a piece that becomes a treasure in the future!