Investing in Funko Pops: A Data-Driven Analysis

The short answer: some can, most won't. Like any collectible, only a fraction of Funko Pops appreciate significantly in value. However, with data-driven decisions, you can tilt the odds in your favor.

The Funko Pop market has grown consistently since 2011, with total secondary market value in the billions. But individual Pop appreciation is not guaranteed — many remain at or below retail price years after release.

Based on historical price data, these categories tend to appreciate:

1. Vaulted Pops from popular franchises — Once retired, supply is fixed. Popular characters from Dragon Ball Z, Marvel, and Star Wars consistently rise 2. Convention Exclusives — Limited production runs create scarcity. Early SDCC exclusives have appreciated 10-100x 3. Chase Variants — Built-in scarcity (1:6) plus collector demand. Chase variants of popular characters rarely lose value 4. First Appearances — The first Pop of a popular character often becomes the most valuable version 5. Franchise Catalysts — Pops tied to upcoming movies, shows, or games often spike before and during release windows

Avoid these for investment purposes:

- Overproduced commons — If it's sitting on shelves for months, it won't be rare - Fad franchises — If the franchise has no lasting fanbase, values drop after initial hype - Damaged boxes — Condition is everything. Even small damage significantly impacts value - Non-character Pops — Generic items without strong character attachment rarely appreciate

Buy at Retail, Hold Long-Term — The simplest strategy. Buy Pops at retail ($10-15) and hold. If vaulted, they have nowhere to go but up. If not, you've lost little.

The Deals Strategy — Use our Deals page to find Pops that have dropped from their highs. If the franchise is still active, these dips often recover.

Pre-Order New Releases — Get in at the lowest price. Set aside Convention exclusives and Chase variants.

Portfolio Approach — Diversify across franchises. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Track your collection value using our tracker.

Use Our Tools — The Price Movers page shows what's trending. The Watchlist alerts you when items hit your target price. Data beats gut feeling.