Downsizing? Determined to get rid of stuff you no longer need? Cleaning out a home or an estate? Stop! Know Before You Throw.
I don’t know about you, but the original Star Wars movie, from 1977, was one of my all-time favorites. I loved the iconic characters of Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader and, of course, Princess Leia Organa. As most of us know by now, we lost Princess Leia by way of actress Carrie Fisher’s recent and sudden passing.
Star Wars went on to become one of the most enduring film franchises of all time. And with that popularity came merchandising in the form of toys, games, models and action figures, just to name a few.
Some years ago, I was called in to help with the sale of a rather sizeable collection of pop-culture memorabilia, mostly from the 1960s and 1970s. There were old comic books, GI Joe dolls, and other popular culture items from that time. However, I’ll never forget opening the boxes containing the Star Wars stuff.
Inside were all of the first series action figurines manufactured by Kenner. They were in mint in-the-box (never opened or played with) condition. Even 20 years ago, when I sold those items, they each brought hundreds of dollars. Those same things only sold for a few dollars when they first showed up at the retail stores.
Scarcity and condition always dictate prices. Now, with Carrie Fisher gone, the Princess Leia figurines might see a spike in value. Perhaps now would be a good time to take a stroll down memory lane and rummage through your old boxes. Who knows, maybe the force will be with you.
Jon Englund has more than 25 years of experience in appraising and liquidating personal property, jewelry, art, collectibles, antiques, furniture, printed items and more. A Midwest transplant, Jon trained at New York University in appraisal studies.
For more information, call (480) 699-1567. You also can send an email to Jon@KnowBeforeYouThrow.INFO.