The Top 9 Most Valuable DC Universe Action Figures for Serious Collectors

Collecting DC Universe action figures can be a fun and rewarding hobby. For serious collectors looking to invest in the most valuable and rare pieces, there are certain figures that stand out above the rest. This article will explore the top 9 most valuable DC Universe action figures that serious collectors pursue.

1. 1970s Mego Corp Batman Figures

The Mego Corporation released the first widely available line of DC superhero action figures in the 1970s, starting with Batman. The early Mego Batman figures are extremely rare and valuable to collectors.

Key issues to look for are the 1970’s Batman figure with a vinyl cowl, the 1977 Batman figure with a cloth costume, and the 1974 Batman figure with a cloth cape.

2. 1940s Superman Tin Toys

Vintage Superman tin toys from the 1940s Golden Age are some of the most prized DC collectibles. Manufacturers like Marx and Wyandotte released lithographed tin wind-up toys of Superman, typically priced at under $1 when new.

Today, these toys in mint shape can sell for up to $20k. The holy grails are the 1940s Superman tin toys by Toytone and Yonezawa. These command upwards of $100k in superb condition.

3. 1960s Bend N Flex Batman Figures

Alongside Mego, Ideal Toys held the DC action figure license in the 1960s. Their first release was the large, hollow plastic Batman figure with a vinyl cowl in 1966. Other valuable Ideal Batman figures include the 1966 Batmobile with Batman and Robin figures, and the 1968 Bend n Flex Batman.

4. 1970s DC Super Friends Figures

When Mego lost the DC license in 1973, competitor Kenner secured it and released the popular Super Friends line. Key issues in this series include the 1973 Superman, Wonder Woman, and Aquaman figures, which had limited distribution.

Unpunched card versions of these can reach into 5 figures. The complete set of original Super Friends figures, especially on cards, is also highly covetable.

5. 1990s Kenner Super Powers DC Figures

By the late 1980s and early 90s, interest in DC action figures was waning. But then Kenner launched the game-changing Super Powers line, showcasing DC's heroes and villains with never-before-seen scale and detail.

The most valuable figures from this series are the mail-away exclusives like Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne. Sealed examples sell for up to $500. A rare Cyborg standalone figure can fetch up to $5k.

6. 1990s Total Justice Figures

Kenner's Total Justice line featured intricate sculpts and extensive character selection. Key issues in card form can sell for up to $500 in mint and sealed condition.

7. 2000s DC Direct Figures

DC Direct took over the reins after Kenner and produced highly-detailed, adult collectible figures into the 2000s. Most valuable are convention exclusives and gift sets. Pricing varies widely, but rare figures like Red Arrow, Superwoman, and Batman of Zur-En-Arrh can sell for $300 to $1k mint-in-box. Even loose completions hit $100+.

8. 1960s Gilbert Batman Memorabilia

Gilbert was another major DC license holder alongside Ideal and Marx in the 1960s. Their rare Batman related releases included a Batman action watch that is highly sought after by proud DC collectors

9. 1990s Toy Biz DC Superheroes Figures

Toy Biz gained the DC action figure rights in the 1990s and made extensive use of unique sculpts with innovative features. Hardest to find are the earliest releases from 1993-94, like the cloth outfit Batman, Superboy, and Steel figures. These sell for $200 to $1k for high grade examples. Full sets, especially carded, are also sought after.

Conclusion

For serious collectors looking to invest in DC Universe action figures, focusing on the most valuable and rare vintage pieces is key. The figures detailed in this article consistently fetch top dollar in the secondary market.

Early releases, popular characters, exclusives, prototypes, and sealed examples in pristine shape offer the highest values. As time passes, the demand for these important pieces of DC history will likely only increase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a DC action figure valuable?

Rarity, age, condition, production variants, exclusivity, completeness, accessories, and popular characters determine value. Figures that are scarce, old, mint, unique, mail-away exclusives, 100% complete, have all accessories, and feature A-list characters are most valuable.

Where can I find the rarest DC action figures?

Estate auctions, specialized comic collectible dealers & shows, and niche collector marketplaces online offer opportunities to find rare, high-value figures. Networking with other serious collectors is also important.

Are modern DC action figures from the 2000s worth collecting?

Generally not yet, as modern figures were mass-produced. But select convention exclusives and gift sets with low production runs may gain value. Focus on pre-2000s figures for most consistent value growth.

Should I keep DC figures sealed or open them?

Deciding whether you should keep them sealed or not is a controversial issue. Sealed examples typically sell for significantly more than loose figures to serious collectors. But opening can reveal completeness issues. Evaluate each figure individually based on rarity and demand.

How should I care for my collection of vintage DC figures?

Store figures in a cool, dry, smoke-free environment out of direct light. Avoid touching or handling them unnecessarily. Do not try to "clean" or restore pieces, as this damages value for collectors. Handle carefully during any transport.

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