What is the rarest Dragon Ball Z figure?

Dragon Ball Z has long been a favorite among collectors, with its vast array of characters, iconic transformations, and intense battles. For fans and collectors of Dragon Ball Z memorabilia, figures are among the most coveted items. While many figures are released regularly, there are some that stand out as exceptionally rare and valuable. These figures are often produced in limited runs, feature special designs, or commemorate significant moments in the series. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the rarest Dragon Ball Z figures, including why they are so valuable and what makes them special.

1. The Original 1989 Goku Figure (Bandai)

Released in 1989 by Bandai, the Original Goku Action Figure was one of the first official Dragon Ball Z figures. Given its age and the fact that it was part of the early merchandise releases, it’s a highly sought-after piece for collectors. These figures often come in their original packaging, making them even rarer and more valuable.

• Why It’s Rare: Being one of the first Dragon Ball Z figures ever made, it has become a vintage item. Over time, many have been lost or damaged, so finding one in good condition, especially with its packaging intact, is a rare occurrence.
• Value: These figures can fetch hundreds of dollars on the secondary market, especially if they are in near-mint condition.

2. SH Figuarts Super Saiyan 3 Goku (Tamashii Nations)

The SH Figuarts Super Saiyan 3 Goku figure is one of the most coveted among collectors. Released by Tamashii Nations, this figure is renowned for its incredible level of detail, articulation, and accurate depiction of Goku’s Super Saiyan 3 transformation. Its lifelike face sculpt and premium accessories set it apart from other figures.

• Why It’s Rare: While Tamashii Nations frequently releases high-quality figures, the Super Saiyan 3 Goku is often considered one of their rarest and most in-demand. This figure was released in a limited batch, making it harder to find as time goes on.
• Value: On the collector's market, this figure can command a high price, often surpassing $200-$300, depending on condition and packaging.

3. Dragon Ball Z Cell Final Form (Tamashii Nations) - Metallic Version

One of the most unique Dragon Ball Z figures ever made is the Metallic Final Form Cell by Tamashii Nations. This figure, which features Cell in his perfect form, is made with a metallic paint finish that makes it stand out among other Dragon Ball Z figures. The detailed sculpt and finishing make it a true collector's item.

• Why It’s Rare: This specific version of Cell was released as part of a special limited edition. With its shiny metallic finish and perfect articulation, it’s considered one of the most well-made Dragon Ball Z figures ever produced. The limited production run and unique appearance make it one of the hardest-to-find figures on the market.
• Value: The metallic version of Cell often sells for upwards of $300-$400 due to its rarity and detailed design.

4. Dragon Ball Z Vegeta - Vegeta’s Scouter Edition (1989)

One of the earliest Dragon Ball Z figures, the Vegeta Scouter Edition, was released in 1989 as part of the original action figure line by Bandai. Featuring Vegeta with his iconic scouter, this figure is rare both because of its age and because of the limited number that were produced. Many of these figures were played with and have long since been lost or damaged.

• Why It’s Rare: This figure was released during the early days of Dragon Ball Z’s international popularity, making it highly collectible. Finding one in good condition with its original accessories, including the scouter, is rare.
• Value: This vintage figure can sell for $200-$500 or more, depending on the condition and whether the original packaging is intact.

5. Dragon Ball Z Great Ape Vegeta (World Collectible Figure)

The Great Ape Vegeta figure is one of the rarest and most unique items in the Dragon Ball Z collectible scene. Produced by Banpresto as part of their World Collectible Figure series, this figure showcases Vegeta’s Great Ape transformation in a detailed and stylized format. As one of the only figures depicting Vegeta in this form, it’s highly sought after by collectors.

• Why It’s Rare: The figure was produced in very limited quantities, and it’s part of a collectible series that features a lot of rare figures. Given that the Great Ape forms of characters are not commonly featured in action figure form, this makes it especially rare.
• Value: Due to its rarity and unique nature, this figure can often be found selling for over $500, especially if it’s in mint condition.

6. Dragon Ball Z Broly (First Movie Version) - Limited Edition

The First Movie Broly figure, released in connection with the movie Dragon Ball Z: Broly - The Legendary Super Saiyan, is a rare and highly valuable figure. Broly quickly became one of the most beloved and powerful characters in the Dragon Ball franchise, making any figure related to him highly collectible.

• Why It’s Rare: This particular figure was released in a limited edition and is based on Broly’s first movie appearance. Figures from early Dragon Ball Z movies, especially those of fan-favorite characters like Broly, are hard to come by.
• Value: Depending on the condition and the rarity of the release (for example, special packaging or limited color variants), this figure can fetch anywhere from $300 to $600 on the market.

Conclusion: The Rarest Dragon Ball Z Figures

The rarest Dragon Ball Z figures are often the vintage ones from the 1980s and 1990s, especially those released in limited quantities or in special editions. However, more recent figures like those from the SH Figuarts line and Tamashii Nations also command high prices due to their attention to detail and limited production runs. If you're a collector, securing these rare Dragon Ball Z figures requires persistence, but the payoff is huge for those who manage to add these treasures to their collections.

Ultimately, the rarest Dragon Ball Z figure is subjective and depends on the specific collector’s focus—whether you’re after vintage figures, limited edition releases, or the most highly-detailed modern action figures. But one thing’s for sure: these figures are a valuable piece of Dragon Ball history, and their worth continues to rise as time goes on.