Funko Pops have taken the collectables world by storm over the past decade, becoming one of the most popular and accessible line of collectables for fans of pop culture. With thousands of characters, variants, and exclusives available, it can feel overwhelming to dive into this exciting hobby for the first time, especially in 2025. Whether you’re starting a Funko Pop collection for fun, nostalgia, or investment purposes, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started.
1. Decide on Your Collecting Goals
Before you start buying Funko Pops, take a moment to determine your collecting goals. Are you collecting for fun, to complete a set, or as an investment?
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For Fun: Focus on characters, franchises, or designs that you love.
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Completionists: Some collectors aim to complete entire sets or themes, such as Marvel, Star Wars, or Disney. We recommend starting with a smaller collection first, as there can be hundreds and hundreds of variants. For example, start with completing a ‘Captain America’ set before tackling all of Marvel.
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Investors: If you’re collecting as an investment, research the rarity and value of Pops over time. Exclusives and limited editions tend to appreciate the most.
By setting clear goals, you’ll stay focused and avoid overspending on Pops that don’t fit your vision.
2. Familiarise Yourself with Funko Pop Categories
Funko Pops come in various categories and styles. Understanding these can help you navigate the vast selection available.
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Commons: Standard releases that are widely available.
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Exclusives: Pops tied to specific retailers, conventions, or events, often identified by exclusive stickers.
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Chase Variants: Rare variations of standard Pops, randomly inserted into shipments. These typically have an average rarity of 1 in 6.
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Vaulted Pops: Retired figures no longer in production, making them more valuable.
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Pop Rides & Pop Deluxe: Larger figures featuring characters with vehicles or detailed scenes.
3. Research Where to Buy Funko Pops
Knowing where to shop can make or break your collecting experience. Here are some of the best places to find Funko Pops:
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Local Stores:
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Visit local collectable shops, comic stores, or retailers like Ozzie Collectables in Australia.
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Build relationships with staff who can alert you to new stock or hold items for you.
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Online Collectable Stores:
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Trusted websites like Ozzie Collectables offer a wide selection, including exclusives and grails.
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Many stores provide pre-orders for upcoming releases, ensuring you don’t miss out.
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Major Retailers:
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Stores like Target, Walmart, and Amazon often stock common Pops and retailer exclusives.
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Secondary Markets:
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Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and specialised collector groups are great for finding rare or vaulted Pops.
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Always verify authenticity and compare prices before purchasing.
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Conventions and Events:
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Attend pop culture conventions like Supanova or Oz Comic-Con to snag event exclusives.
4. Learn to Spot Exclusives and Value
Some Funko Pops are more sought-after than others, and exclusivity plays a big role in determining value. Here’s what to look for:
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Stickers: Exclusive stickers indicate retailer-specific or event-exclusive Pops.
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Rarity: Limited-edition releases or chase variants are typically more valuable.
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Condition: Mint condition boxes significantly affect resale value.
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Popularity: Pops from trending franchises or beloved classics tend to hold their value.
Use websites like Pop Price Guide or the Funko App to check a Pop’s estimated value.
5. Start Small and Build Your Collection Over Time
When starting out, it’s tempting to buy every Pop you come across. Instead, start small and focus on quality over quantity. Here’s how:
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Begin with characters or themes you’re passionate about.
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Prioritise exclusives and chase variants if they’re within your budget.
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Keep an eye out for sales and bundle deals to save money.
6. Protect and Display Your Collection
Once you start building your collection, proper care and display are crucial to maintaining the value and aesthetics of your Pops.
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Protectors: Invest in Pop protectors to shield your figures from dust, sunlight, and accidental damage.
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Shelving: Use display shelves or cabinets to showcase your collection.
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Organisation: Arrange Pops by theme, franchise, or rarity for an impressive display.
7. Join the Collector Community
Funko Pop collecting is more than just a hobby; it’s a community. Joining fellow collectors can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights.
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Online Groups: Participate in Facebook groups, Reddit forums, or Discord servers dedicated to Funko collectors.
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Local Events: Attend trade nights or meetups hosted by local shops or community groups.
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Social Media: Follow Funko’s official accounts and hashtags to stay updated on new releases and trends.
Final Thoughts
Starting a Funko Pop collection is an exciting journey filled with nostalgia, discovery, and a touch of strategy. By setting clear goals, understanding the market, and connecting with fellow collectors, you can build a collection that reflects your unique tastes and passions. Remember to enjoy the process and treasure the stories behind each figure you add to your shelves.
Ready to start your collection? Explore Ozzie Collectables for an incredible range of Funko Pops, including exclusives, chases, and grails. Your ultimate Funko journey begins here!