Star Wars Black Series - Do I Keep My Boxes & How Do I Store Them?

Summary

In this video, Justin from 'Out of the Basement' discusses the common debate among action figure collectors about whether to open or keep their figures in the box. He addresses the misconception that opening figures devalues them, emphasizing the collector-friendly and resealable packaging of the Black Series. Justin shares his personal practice of keeping and storing action figure boxes in large, durable plastic bins in his attic, and counters the idea that figures lose significant value once opened. He encourages viewers, especially new collectors, to join the conversation on collection practices.

Takeaways

• 🎥 The video discusses the common misconception that opening action figure boxes devalues the collectibles.
• 🗣️ Justin emphasizes the importance of explaining the concept of collector-friendly and resealable packaging to non-collectors.
• 📦 The video features the Black Series, which predominantly uses resealable and collector-friendly packaging.
• 🧩 Justin personally keeps all his resealable boxes from the Black Series, as he believes it's more complete with the figure and packaging.
• 💸 He mentions selling loose figures for more than their original value, debunking the idea that opened figures always lose value.
• 🏡 Justin stores his action figure boxes in large, sealable plastic bins from Walmart, kept in his attic to protect from rodents and water damage.
• 🚫 He advises against using cardboard boxes for storage due to the risk of rodent damage.
• 🔒 The video suggests using durable plastic bins with locking mechanisms for secure storage.
• 📈 Justin notes that the value of collectibles can be unpredictable, referencing the fluctuating values of pop vinyl and beanie babies.
• 🤔 The video concludes by encouraging viewers to share their own practices regarding the storage and display of their action figure collections.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is discussing the practice of opening action figure boxes, specifically within the context of the Black Series, and explaining the concept of collector-friendly and resealable packaging.

Why do some people believe that opening action figures devalues them?

Some people believe that opening action figures devalues them because they think the original packaging is an integral part of the collectible's value, especially for those who are not involved in the hobby and may have a stereotypical view of collecting.

What is meant by 'resealable and collector-friendly packaging'?

Resealable and collector-friendly packaging refers to packaging that allows collectors to open the box, examine or display the action figure, and then reseal it, preserving its condition and potentially its value.

Why does the speaker keep the resealable boxes from the Black Series?

The speaker keeps the resealable boxes because it feels more complete to have both the figure and the package, and it allows for the possibility of resealing and selling the item in the future if desired.

How does the speaker store his action figure boxes?

The speaker stores his action figure boxes in large, sealable plastic bins from Walmart, which he keeps in his attic.

What is the advantage of using plastic bins for storage according to the speaker?

Using plastic bins for storage is advantageous because they are durable, protect against potential rodent damage, and can be found with locking mechanisms to keep contents secure.

Why does the speaker choose to store his collection in the attic?

The speaker stores his collection in the attic to prevent potential water damage that could occur if stored in a basement or below ground level, and he believes the attic is less likely to be a habitat for rodents.

How does the speaker feel about the idea that opening action figures devalues them?

The speaker disagrees with the idea that opening action figures devalues them, citing personal experiences of selling loose figures for more than their original value and emphasizing the collector-friendly nature of resealable packaging.

What is the speaker's advice for new collectors of the Black Series?

The speaker advises new collectors to consider the benefits of keeping action figures in their resealable packaging, as it can maintain or even increase the value of the collectible over time.

What does the speaker suggest about the predictability of action figure value increases?

The speaker suggests that the value of action figures, such as those from the Black Series, is unpredictable and should not be relied upon as an investment for paying off significant expenses like student debt.

How does the speaker address the concern of family and friends who believe that opened action figures lose all value?

The speaker addresses this concern by sharing his experience and knowledge of the hobby, stating that many collectors do not mind if an action figure has been removed from its resealable package, and that the packaging itself can still hold value.