Starting A Transformer Toy Collection

First off you need to know the differences between the generations. Generation 1 transformers were the originals. Their life span was from 1984-1990. To the true transformer fan, these toys are the only ones that count. All of the generations pale in comparison.

Now collecting G1 (generation 1) transformers is just not as easy as it once was in the 1980s. If you could somehow build a time machine and stroll into a "toys r us" store in 1987, you'd be a very rich man. It's basically the same concept with baseball cards from the 50s and 60s . The people that lived during those times didn't know the gold that was staring right in their face.

Since a time machine is not an option, here are some tips for starting your transformer toys collection:

1) Really enjoy what you're doing. If you're just going into this to make millions of dollars, you're doing it for the wrong reason. Try to fully understand that these toys are kind of like a time capsule from the 80s. They represent pop culture as well as the simplicity of the time. Back then, this is what kept kids entertained, not the internet.

2) If you are going to be a serious collector, then look at the AFA Graded Transformer Toys. These are transformers that are in their original sealed box. They have never been taken out of their box and they have been professionally graded. A grading of 80 or higher is what you're looking for. The highly graded transformers are worth thousands of dollars, depending on which transformer.

3) If the Graded Transformer toys are a little out of your ballpark then focus on the sealed transformer toys. Its the next best thing to graded transformers. You can buy them at significant discount and then have them graded. Hopefully the box and toy are in good condition which will lead to a high grade, which then leads to big sales and profits.

4) If you are just interested in collecting the toys themselves and not really interested in making a business out of it, then just stick to the buying used transformer toys. They are by far cheaper and more common then the sealed or graded transformer toys. And, while they not bring in the big dough as long as you take care of them, their value does nothing but go up. Your Transformer