From Common to Chase: The Value of Funko Pop Rarities

September 4, 2024

Funko Pops have grown from niche collectibles to a global phenomenon. Whether you're a passionate collector or a casual fan, the world of Funko Pop offers a treasure trove of characters across countless franchises. From common figures that are easily accessible to rare chase variants that collectors hunt for, Funko Pops can vary significantly in value. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of Funko Pop rarities, what makes them valuable, and how to build a collection that balances both common and rare finds.

1. The Basics: What Are Funko Pops?

Before diving into rarities, it’s important to understand the basics. Funko Pops are vinyl figurines with distinct oversized heads and stylized designs, often depicting beloved characters from movies, TV shows, video games, and more. Funko has produced tens of thousands of figures, and they’re widely available in stores and online.

Funko Pops are typically classified into different categories based on availability:

Common Figures: Regularly produced and widely available at most retailers.
Exclusive Figures: Available only at specific retailers or events, often in limited numbers.
Chase Variants: Special, rarer versions of existing Pops, often featuring unique designs, colors, or features.
Limited Editions: Figures produced in very limited quantities, often tied to specific events like San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC).

2. Common Funko Pops: The Foundation of Any Collection

Most collectors begin their journey with common Funko Pops. These are the bread and butter of the Funko Pop universe and are usually priced between $10 and $15. Common Pops are mass-produced and widely available in stores like Walmart, Target, and GameStop, as well as online marketplaces.

Why Collect Common Funko Pops?

Affordability: Common Pops are easy to find and generally inexpensive. They allow new collectors to get a feel for the hobby without breaking the bank.
Availability: Common Pops cover a broad range of characters and franchises, making it easy to start a collection based on your favorite movies, shows, or games.
Building a Base Collection: While common Pops aren’t typically considered rare or highly valuable, they form the foundation of a solid collection and are often the gateway to more serious collecting.

3. Chase Funko Pops: A Collector’s Holy Grail

While common Pops are easy to find, chase variants are the real prize for serious collectors. A chase Funko Pop is a rarer version of an existing figure, featuring subtle or significant differences in design. These differences could include a glow-in-the-dark feature, a metallic finish, a different pose, or even alternate costumes.

How Do Chase Funko Pops Work?

Chase Ratio: Chase variants are randomly inserted into shipments of regular Pops, with a chase ratio that typically ranges from 1:6 or higher. This means that for every six standard Pops of a particular figure, only one chase variant is produced. Some chase variants have even lower ratios, making them exceedingly rare.
Unique Designs: Chase figures are identical in box design to their common counterparts but have special features that make them stand out. For example, a chase version of a character might be holding a different accessory, have a glow-in-the-dark finish, or sport a different outfit.
Increased Value: Because chase figures are much rarer than their common versions, they command higher prices on the secondary market. The value of a chase Pop can easily surpass $50 to $100, depending on demand and rarity.

Why Collect Chase Funko Pops?

Exclusivity: Chase variants are harder to find, making them highly desirable for collectors seeking rare figures to enhance their collections.
Increased Value: Chase Pops often appreciate in value, making them a smart investment for those who are both collectors and resellers.
Excitement of the Hunt: Tracking down a chase Funko Pop can be thrilling. Whether you're shopping in stores or online, the possibility of finding a chase variant adds an element of surprise and excitement.

4. Funko Pop Exclusives: Rare and Coveted

Another level of rarity in the Funko Pop universe is exclusivity. Exclusive Funko Pops are tied to specific retailers, conventions, or events, and can’t be found everywhere. Some popular retailers with exclusive Pops include Hot Topic, Target, Walmart, and GameStop. Additionally, conventions like San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) or New York Comic-Con (NYCC) often feature exclusive Funko Pops that are produced in very limited quantities.

What Makes Exclusive Funko Pops Valuable?

Retailer Exclusives: Retailer-specific exclusives are often produced in smaller quantities than common Pops, making them harder to find. Collectors often seek these exclusives to complete their collections, and they can quickly sell out, leading to higher aftermarket prices.
Convention Exclusives: Convention-exclusive Pops are often the rarest and most sought-after by collectors. SDCC and NYCC exclusives are sometimes limited to only a few thousand pieces, and once they’re gone, they’re gone for good. These figures often feature unique designs or special packaging that sets them apart from regular releases.
Event Exclusives: Special events, such as Funko’s own virtual conventions or anniversaries, also feature exclusive Pops that are released in limited numbers, driving up their value.

Why Collect Exclusive Funko Pops?

Rarity: Exclusive Funko Pops are often produced in smaller quantities, making them valuable additions to any collection.
High Resale Value: Convention and event exclusives, in particular, can command high prices on the secondary market, especially if they’re limited to a small number of pieces.
Unique Designs: Many exclusive Pops feature alternate designs or special finishes, such as metallic or flocked variants, making them visually distinct from their common counterparts.

5. Limited Edition Funko Pops: The Pinnacle of Rarity

At the very top of the Funko Pop rarity scale are limited edition figures. These are Pops that are produced in extremely small quantities, often with specific numbers printed on the box (e.g., "Limited to 500 pieces"). Limited edition Funko Pops are usually tied to special events or collaborations, making them the rarest and most valuable figures in the Funko universe.

Types of Limited Edition Funko Pops:

Convention Exclusives: Many limited-edition figures are released at conventions like SDCC or NYCC. These figures are often produced in quantities of 1,000 pieces or less, making them highly coveted by collectors.
Collaborations: Some limited-edition Pops are the result of collaborations between Funko and other brands or artists. These figures often feature unique designs that set them apart from standard releases.
Numbered Editions: Limited edition figures often come with a specific production number printed on the box, such as "Limited to 500 pieces." This numbering adds to their exclusivity and value.

Why Collect Limited Edition Funko Pops?

Extreme Rarity: Limited edition Funko Pops are the rarest figures available, making them a true prize for collectors.
High Investment Potential: Limited edition figures often appreciate in value significantly over time, making them an excellent investment for collectors who are looking to resell in the future.
Unique Designs and Packaging: These figures often feature special designs, packaging, or finishes that make them stand out from regular releases.

6. How to Track Funko Pop Values

The value of Funko Pops can fluctuate based on demand, rarity, and condition. Here are some tools and tips for tracking the value of your collection:

Funko App: The official Funko App is a great tool for tracking the value of your collection. It provides real-time price estimates based on recent sales data from secondary markets like eBay.
Pop Price Guide (PPG): Pop Price Guide is another popular resource for Funko collectors. It offers a detailed breakdown of Funko Pop prices, including historical data, chase variants, and exclusive releases.
eBay: If you’re looking to sell or buy Funko Pops, eBay is one of the largest platforms for tracking current market prices. You can check completed listings to see how much specific Pops have recently sold for.

7. Building a Funko Pop Collection That Balances Common and Rare Pops

While chase and limited edition Pops are exciting to collect, common figures also play an important role in building a well-rounded Funko Pop collection. Here’s how to balance both:

Start with Commons: If you’re new to collecting, start by purchasing common Pops of characters you love. This will help you build a base collection and get a feel for the Funko Pop market.
Hunt for Rarities: Once you’ve established your collection, begin hunting for chase variants and exclusive Pops. Use tools like the Funko App and Pop Price Guide to track down rarer figures.
Set a Budget: Collecting Funko Pops can get expensive, especially when chasing after rare figures. Set a monthly or yearly budget to keep your spending in check while still growing your collection.
Focus on What You Love: While some collectors focus purely on rarity and value, the best collections are those built around your personal passions. Collect the figures that make you happy, whether they’re common or rare.

Conclusion

From common Pops to rare chase variants and limited editions, the world of Funko Pop collecting offers something for everyone. While rare figures can be highly valuable, common Pops are just as important for building a well-rounded collection. By focusing on both common and rare figures, and using tools to track their value, you can build a collection that’s not only fun but also a potential investment.

At Uncle Zac’s Toy Store, we offer a wide range of Funko Pops, from commons to autographed chase variants, all shipped with premium protection to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. Whether you’re just starting your collection or hunting for rare finds, Uncle Zac’s has you covered!

Want to start your collection? Check out the selection we have here at https://unclezacs.com/collections/all

Back to blog