Sofia Martinez
Plastic model kits, which first hit the shelves in the 1930s, have become valuable collector's items. Sources suggest that the value of a kit depends on various factors, including the manufacturer, the condition of the box, and whether the kit is complete with all parts, decals, and instructions. The market for these kits is unpredictable, and the labor that goes into building them is often overvalued. Collectors are willing to pay high prices for kits from well-known manufacturers, and some sources recommend selling kits on eBay to get a feel for the market.
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What You'll Learn
Vintage plastic model kits can be sold on eBay
When selling vintage plastic model kits on eBay, it is important to consider the condition of the box, as this can impact the value. Kits that are sealed in their original packaging or have never been opened will often bring a higher price. Completeness is also important, with kits that include all parts, decals, and instructions in good condition tending to be more valuable.
It is worth noting that there are specialist buyers for plastic model kits, such as OldModelKits.com, which buys kits from any manufacturer and in any quantity. They accept kits that are made of plastic, vacuform, wood, or metal. The process typically involves sending photos or lists of the kits for sale, agreeing on a price, and then shipping the kits. Postal insurance is recommended to cover any potential issues during transit.
When creating a listing for vintage plastic model kits on eBay, it is important to include clear and detailed photos, a description of the kit's condition, and any relevant keywords that potential buyers may be searching for. It is also worth considering the different selling formats that eBay offers, such as auction-style listings or fixed-price listings, to determine the best approach for maximizing the sale value.
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The value of a kit depends on its condition
Some collectors will also be interested in the manufacturer and the rarity of the kit. Kits from well-known manufacturers such as Revell, Monogram, Aurora, Tamiya, and Hasegawa can be sought-after, especially if they are rare or vintage. Wooden kits from the 1930s, for example, are likely to be more valuable than plastic kits from the same era.
If you are selling a built model, rather than a kit, the value will also depend on the craftsmanship and attention to detail. However, keep in mind that most people who ask for high prices for their models are known for their print or video work, so it is their name that is being sold, rather than the model itself.
To get an idea of the market value of your kits, you can check online marketplaces such as eBay or specialist websites such as OldModelKits.com, which buy and sell plastic model kits. You can also refer to books such as "Collecting Vintage Plastic Model Airplane Kits" by Craig Kodera or "The Collectors Value Guide for Scale Model Plastic Kits" by John W. Burns. These resources can provide valuable information on the history and value of old plastic model kits.
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Kits should be 100% complete with all parts, decals and instructions
Old plastic model kits can be worth a lot of money, especially if they are rare and sought-after by fellow modellers. Most kits start at around $10 to $50, but some rarer models can be worth up to $1,000 or more. For example, the 1966 Aurora Monsters on Wheels series kit can be worth up to $1,000, while the 1970 Januar XK-E kit now has a book value of $1,100.
To get the best price for your kit, it should be 100% complete with all parts, decals, and instructions. It is also important that the kit is not used and is not significantly damaged. If the kit is in good condition and complete, it will bring top value. If the kit is high value, it is recommended to place any loose parts in a sealable bag to avoid loss during shipping. It is also a good idea to use a rubber band to keep loose parts from escaping and to pack the kit in a sturdy box with plenty of filling to avoid damage.
There are many places where you can sell your old plastic model kits, including online marketplaces such as eBay and Etsy, as well as specialist sites like Deans Hobby Stop and OldModelKits.com. OldModelKits.com will buy any quantity of plastic model kits, and they specify that kits should be complete with all parts, decals, and instructions to bring top value. They also provide tips on how to pack kits to minimize damage and parts loss during shipping.
It is also worth considering repairing and restoring old or yellowing decals, which can be off-putting to potential buyers. This can be done by scanning the decal sheet and using bitmap editing software to remove the discoloration, before reprinting the decal sheet. You can also apply a thin coat of Microscale Decal Film or Krylon Crystal Clear Acrylic to help maintain the colour and brilliance of the decals.
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The cost of the kit and aftermarket costs should be factored into the price
When it comes to determining the value of old plastic model kits, one crucial factor to consider is the cost of the kit itself and any aftermarket additions. This is especially important if you're aiming to turn a profit on your creation.
Firstly, consider the cost of the kit as a baseline. If you're selling a built model, it's unlikely you'll want to sell it for less than the cost of the kit itself. This is a good starting point for pricing your model.
Secondly, take into account any aftermarket additions you've made to the kit. These could include resin, photoetch, decals, or any other enhancements. Be mindful that investing too heavily in aftermarket parts can become a pitfall if the total cost of these additions exceeds the value of the kit. It's a fine line to tread, as these additions can also increase the appeal and value of your model.
Calculating the average cost of supplies per model is another useful strategy. Keep track of your annual spending on paint, glue, brushes, washes, shipping materials, and other essentials, and divide that by the number of models you build in a year. This will give you an average cost that you can factor into the price of each model. For example, if you spend $400 on supplies in a year and build 50 models, your average cost per model is $8.
Lastly, don't forget to consider the fees associated with the platforms or services you use to sell your models. These fees can eat into your profits, so it's essential to factor them into your pricing to ensure you're not losing money.
While the market for selling built models can be unpredictable, considering these factors will help you set more informed and competitive prices for your old plastic model kits.
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The name attached to the model can increase its value
The name attached to a model kit can increase its value in several ways. Firstly, a well-known brand or manufacturer name can indicate higher quality and craftsmanship, making the kit more desirable to collectors. For example, certain manufacturers have a reputation for producing highly detailed and accurate kits, which can increase their value over time.
Secondly, the subject matter that the model kit depicts can also influence its value. Kits that feature popular or iconic vehicles, characters, or machinery from well-known franchises or brands tend to be more valuable. For instance, model kits of classic automobiles, such as the 1910 Maxwell, which was released by Revell and featured a miniature Jack Benny, can become valued collectibles over time. Similarly, kits featuring characters from pop fiction, especially Eastern pop culture, can be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Additionally, the name attached to a model kit can increase its value through licensing and intellectual property. For example, some model kits may feature official licenses from automotive, aerospace, or defence industries, allowing them to use specific logos, insignias, or trademarks. These licensed kits can be more valuable due to their authenticity and the fact that they are often produced in limited quantities.
The rarity and exclusivity of a model kit can also be influenced by the name attached to it. Limited edition kits or those produced by smaller manufacturers in small batches can become highly valuable over time, especially if they feature a notable name or brand. Furthermore, the name of a renowned artist or designer associated with the model kit can also increase its value, similar to how signatures enhance the value of artwork.
Lastly, the name attached to a model kit can indicate its historical significance, which can greatly increase its value. For example, model kits released during specific historical periods, such as World War II, or those that depict vehicles or machinery from a certain era, may become collectibles due to their connection to a bygone era.
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Frequently asked questions
Old plastic model kits can be worth a lot to collectors, especially if they are rare or vintage. The value of a model kit can vary depending on factors such as its age, condition, and completeness.
The value of old plastic model kits can be influenced by a variety of factors. The box condition is critical, especially for older kits. The kit must also be complete, with all parts, decals, and instructions in good condition and not used or significantly damaged. Additionally, the rarity and age of the kit can impact its value, with older and rarer kits tending to be more valuable.
There are several options for selling old plastic model kits. Online platforms such as eBay are a popular choice, as they allow you to reach a wide range of potential buyers. There are also specialised websites such as OldModelKits.com that buy and sell plastic model kits. You can also consider selling directly to collectors or at hobby shops.
Determining the price for your old plastic model kits can be tricky. You can start by considering the factors that affect the value, as mentioned above. You can also refer to price guides such as "The Collectors Value Guide for Scale Model Plastic Kits" by John W. Burns to get an idea of the market value for similar kits. Additionally, you can take into account the cost of the kit, aftermarket expenses, and any fees associated with the selling platform you choose.
