What is an NFT?

NFT stands for Non-Fungible Token. It is a token that is created on the blockchain. It is most popular on the ETH (Ethereum) Blockchain, but there are other coins that are able to create NFTs. 

Think of an NFT as a collectible. If you had a rare Pokemon card or Baseball card, an NFT would be the proof of ownership. It is like a certificate of authenticity. 

An NFT is important because it creates a clear contract of ownership of any collectible or art piece. If the NFT is sold or transferred, it is clearly displayed on the blockchain.

The use cases for NFTs are just beginning. We are seeing it used in the art world and the music world. It is like being able to own a vinyl record. It is proof of ownership of something rare and valuable. 

The NFT world is currently experimenting on exactly how this will all work. It has been very effective at selling digital artwork. It also creates a strong marketplace to buy and sell these collectible art works.

Some of the most impressive examples of NFT tokens are CryptoKitties, CryptoPunks, and NBA Top Shot. All are based around collectible items. 

CryptoKitties NFT

CryptoKitties was one of the first use cases to create value around a collectible item. CryptoKitties is based around collecting digital cats. They are fun and quirky drawings where each kitten has their own unique features and characteristics. There is also a breeding component to the collectibles. Breeding certain CryptoKitties with other cats can create unique breeds, which can be very rare and valuable. Many kittens are being sold for thousands of dollars, and CryptoKitties will likely have long term value, as they are one of the first examples of an NFT going viral.

CryptoPunks NFT

CryptoPunks is another example of an NFT collectible that is exploding in demand and popularity. CryptoPunks are essentially pixelated avatars of different faces that might resemble a character from an 8-bit NES game. These CryptoPunks have a strong market, where CryptoPunk avatars are selling for 5 figures a piece. This is a great example of digital assets holding value and demand. 

NBA Top Shot NFT

The NBA is one of the first major brands to incorporate NFTs. Some of the creators of CryptoKitties teamed up with the NBA to create NBA Top Shot. If you haven’t heard of the buzz behind it, NBA Top Shot is creating the ownership of “NBA Moments” like a memorable Slam Dunk from Russell Westbrook against the Indiana Pacers, or a no look pass from Chris Paul while playing the Toronto Raptors. 

NBA Top Shot is red hot. They are having trouble keeping up with demand and have turned off all marketing for their product in order for the Beta mode to run more effectively. There are moments being sold for five and six figures on their marketplace

NBA Top Shot is dropping packs that you can open digitally like a basketball card pack you would buy from a store. It recreates the feel of opening a fresh pack and discovering which cards came with it. They are currently asking you to get in line when they drop. Your order in line is randomly generated, and you will be given your number in line. There have been over 100,000 people waiting in line for packs that cost anywhere from $9 to $99.

Are NFTs Just Hype?

We are seeing that people are understanding the value of digital assets. Just because something can’t be tangibly held in your hands, does not mean that it has no value. We have seen the value of digital assets in the video game world and RPGs, but we are increasingly seeing the value in digital collectibles, digital art, and music ownership.

Art is being sold for thousands on exchanges like Rarible and OpenSea. Digital art is also being curated on sites like Nifty Gateway, which has found a way to feature artists daily and list their art on their site.

One of the most impressive examples of the power of NFTs is musician 3LAU auctioning a digital experience for fans and NFT enthusiasts. 3LAU leveraged the NFT space as a way to create a groundbreaking collectible experience that fans can enjoy. 

There is also a lot of art being published (as minted NFT tokens) on sites like Rarible and OpenSea. Both have market places where users can buy, sell, and resell their artwork and collectibles.

NFTs are certainly creating a lot of hype, and it remains to be seen what it looks like a year from now, but it is gaining more traction every day, and people are stretching and reimagining new ways for the NFT space to grow.

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Top 10 Most Expensive Disney Parks Popcorn Buckets

Typically you don’t think of popcorn buckets are highly collectible and also valuable items. While there are certainly some collectible buckets which have been created over the years, Disney really tops them all with their details and limited editions buckets. They release these limited and detailed popcorn buckets of popular Disney characters, and people almost instantly jump at the chance to purchase. Since these popcorn buckets are park exclusives, they become even more desirable and even hard to get your hands on. Some of them can sell out rather quickly, while others can stick around in the parks for a bit. Most of the time the more popular ones sell out shockingly fast, and can be seen reselling for high prices. Some people are willing to pay for these adorable collectible items, especially some of the older and more limited ones which have remained high in value. Here are some of the most expensive and popular Disney Parks popcorn buckets.

R2-D2 Limited Popcorn Bucket

This bucket was originally released in Disney World in 2013 and continued to become more and more sought after. It can sell online for a couple hundred dollars now, with a current listing of close to $300. While it seems like a crazy high price to pay for a popcorn bucket, people are often willing to shell out the cash for their favorite characters. Most Star Wars collectors want to get their hands on their favorite merch and don’t really care if it costs them a pretty penny.

Tokyo Sea Voyage Popcorn Bucket

This suitcase bucket was limited edition and exclusive to Tokyo Disney, making it highly sought after for collectors. It can sell for around $150 online, and continued to be one which is hard to get your hands on. For those who enjoy collecting these buckets, this adorable little popcorn carrier is a must.

Tokyo Disney Duffy Sea Voyage Bucket

Another exclusive to Tokyo Disney, as well as being limited and hard to snag, this bucket can sell for around $150 or even more on occasion. While it is certainly an adorable bucket, it can be a bit costly as well.

Hong Kong Christmas Pluto Popcorn Bucket

This Christmas version of Pluto is one of the more valuable buckets on this list. It can sell for around $90-$140 depending on the sale and time. It is a popular and adorable bucket, but being that it is exclusive to Hong Kong Disney, definitely makes it harder to get your hands on.

Oogie Boogie Popcorn Bucket

There were two versions of this bucket recently released, one is in much lighter colors while the other and newer version is far brighter. These two have both become rather valuable, although it seems the original has definitely maintained a higher price. When these first released they were selling for hundreds of dollars, but have dropped a little bit in value. The original Oogie can still be seen online for around $100 though, which is rather pricey for a popcorn bucket.

Donald Duck Popcorn Bucket

This adorable Donald bucket can actually sell for around $100 and is definitely a popular collectible for any Donald fans out there. It has so much detail for just being a simple popcorn bucket, which is why people want this one for their collections. It is rarely seen for much lower than this online, which definitely makes it one of the priciest on the list.

Cinderella Carriage Popcorn Bucket

Nothing says fairytale like Cinderella and her magical carriage. This collectible bucket is both beautiful and definitely sought after. It can sell for around $60-$80 and is definitely one for collectors who love Cinderella and enjoy these adorable popcorn buckets.

Duffy Bear Popcorn Bucket

This adorable Duffy bear is actually a more rare popcorn bucket, making it a bit more valuable. It can range online from $60-$80 depending on the time and seller. While it isn’t the most expensive on this list, it is pretty pricey when you think about what the item is.

Mike and Sully Popcorn Buckets

These adorable Monster Inc. buckets can sell for around $80 as a set. While alone they aren’t the most expensive buckets, they still sell for well over their original market value. These adorable buckets are perfect for any Monsters Inc. lover. The colors and details really stand out and make for some excellent Disney photos.

Toy Story Alien Popcorn Bucket

While this might not be the absolute most expensive, it still holds a value of around $50. These became extremely popular when they first hit the parks, having fans of these little green men going crazy after them. They might have gone down a bit in price, mostly because the LE was not super low, but they are still highly popular and lovable buckets for collectors.

The Most Expensive Disney Fantasy Pins

While there are plenty of official Disney pins out there which are beautiful and valuable, fantasy or custom pins are also something which have become popular. These are fan made pins which are often designed by artists, and manufactured by creators who just want to make their ideas come to life. Some of these pins become truly pricey on the second market, since they are hard to get and very sought after by collectors. It is important to know that these are not official and are really just made by fans who want to turn their art into something beautiful. While they might not be as valuable as the highest official pins, some of them can go for a pretty penny for those who just want to get their hands on them.

These fantasy pins usually operate through pre-sales, where buyers purchase before they are actually in hand, in order to help fund production costs. This can be useful for collectors who don’t want to spend the high market prices, if they are lucky enough to snatch them ahead of time of course. Here is a list of some of the most expensive Disney fantasy pins, and where you can try and find them.

Designer Mermaids Fantasy Ariel Pin

Designer Mermaids are a line which sells privately to a specially made group of people, which is a big reason they have become so expensive and hard to snag. This means that people who want to collect can only get them from members of this group, creating a situation of supply and demand. These pins are various disney characters, but in a mermaid form, with some beautiful features like stained glass, glow in the dark and glitter. The prices often range based on the popularity of each character created, but they can be anywhere from $200-$400 on the resell market. Some of these pins are so desirable that people are willing to shell out a lot of cash just to get their hands on their grail.

Deviant Fantasy Ariel Masterpiece (MP)

Deviant Fantasy Pins are often valuable because they do sell in another private group on facebook. Most of the pins from this creator become instantly pricey, but they do have specific lines which are even more sought after on the resell market. They have a specific series which is called their Masterpiece series, and this has quickly become popular, with pricing increasing. Mostly the reason these pins have shot up in value is because of the incredible detail and the somewhat massive size of them (4-5 inches). These pins are based on beloved characters, with backgrounds filled with detail and vibrant colors. The Masterpiece designs sell once a week, and even with the lucky members of the group they sell out within seconds, another reason they become so valuable. These call sell for $200-$500 as well, depending on the popularity of the design and the characters involved in it.

Deviant Fantasy Jasmine Bride (Photo from Ebay)

Deviant Fantasy creator also has other series like their Bride’s which are various Disney females in wedding attire. These are sold in a separate group and can certainly be difficult for collectors to get their hands on. Selling for a couple hundred dollars depending on the popularity of the character.

Esmerelda Yensid Pin (Photo from Ebay)

Yensids are a series based on Harry Potter and Disney characters mashed together. Yensid is the Disney spelled backwards, and the line is meant to be based on characters in his school of magic. These crossover designs have been popular for a while, but the price definitely fluctuates. Some of these can be around $200, while it ranges all the way to $400 or even $500 depending on the pin and the desire of the buyer to purchase it. Often the fact that these pins are sold privately, does increase the hype and desire for them. When people cannot easily get their hands on something, it definitely makes them want it even more!

Elsa as Scarlet Witch AOM

AOMs are a line by @Pintitonmagic (intstagram) and is done as Disney characters crossed over with various Marvel characters. The title stands for Agents of Mouse, mixing together these two popular themes. These mashups are highly sought after and can sell out in minutes, even seconds. They are details designs of various Disney characters in the form of Marvel ones, for example Flynn Rider as Iron Man. They can sell for around $200-$400 as well, depending on the popularity of the character and the details in the design.

Sally Yoyo Pop art by Nippy Chan

The POP series by Yoyo the Pinstar, is one which ranges in price. While some of these are not the highest of market value, there are others which can certainly be expensive and nearly impossible to get your hands on. This often depends on the character as well, and with certain ones this price can range from $100-$400. Often it is the older designs which are highly valuable, but certainly some newer ones have become hard to get and desirable.

Anna GOT Design (Photo from Ebay)

GOT Crossover Series by Pinchantress, is another highly sought after and expensive series. These can also sell for $250-$400, depending on how desirable the design is. They sell in a private group which makes them hard for people to get their hands on, only becoming more vulnerable to the reseller market. These are certainly hard to acquire, but also very wanted for collectors who are fans of Game of Thrones and Disney, and enjoy seeing them mashed together for these crossover pins!

Dream Series Jasmine

Dream Series is another popular pin line, with these lovable Disney characters in a dreamy pose. They have their eyes closed, looking whimsical and just a bit sleepy. These designs are very delicate and pretty, but the price tends to range for them. Some sell for around $100 and can rage to around $250 depending on the design and how badly people want them.

@FantasyMenagerie (instagram) Ariel Profile

Fantasy Menagerie is a series of pins which are all profiles, with various details added around a border. These are another growing series, which are becoming desirable for those who collect them. They can sell for a couple hundred dollars, depending on the character and how badly people are after them.

@untamed_dreams_pins Sally

Untamed Dreams is a newer series but has continued to grow in popularity, mostly because of the detail in the designs. These pins are sold privately, but many collectors will shell out the cash so that they can get their hands on one of them. They feature Disney heroines in a unique and adorable drawing style. They can sell for around $80-$200 depending on the character of course, but they are certainly growing in popularity as time goes on.

While these are some of the more well-known designs, there are plenty of up and coming creators introducing themselves to the pin making scene. Only time will tell what the resale value will be on some of these pins, but even before they are in hand they are becoming highly sought after. The popularity of pins changes and their price can certainly fluctuate over time. There are many things which affect the market of pins, and sometimes it just depends on how much people are willing to spend or if they would rather wait it out for something new. There are ideas like crossovers which seem to be increasing in popularity, or other unique designs which are unlike the original Disney style. These unique approaches are certainly part of what is making these pins more and more wanted.

Vivacious Vixens Sally by @redsunflowerpins (instagram)
Dungeons and Dragons Briar Rose Crossover design entitled Critical Kingdoms by @Channizard

When collectors are excited about beautiful artwork, they will do just about anything to get their hands on them. Sometimes this means spending a pretty penny, while other times it means trading away some of their truly valuable pins. Trading can be a great way to snag some of these truly hard to get pins, and so collectors should not despair over the prices. If you see something you love, just continue to find good traders and meet the right person. This is part of what makes the community so amazing, and fun to be in. Being able to meet someone who wants to trade and who wants to help you achieve a grail, can really brighten your mood.

Often the best way to find these creators and other traders, are through instagram, also known as Pinstagram to those who collect.


Top 9 Most Expensive and Rarest Lion King Figures and Collectibles

Top 9 Most Expensive and Rarest Lion King Figures and Collectibles

Lion King is one of the most incredibly popular animated films in all of animation history. It continues to live up to its popularity and many collectors just go crazy for any merchandise they can get their hands on. Lion King figures can be surprisingly valuable depending on the rarity and the piece itself. With the live action remake coming out fairly soon, fans of even more hyped to relive the nostalgia of this incredible movie. While there are some very popular Lion King items, there are some truly rare pieces which are very valuable because of this. Disney certainly knows how to create things which are both exclusive and incredible valuable to those of us obsessed with their creations.

Here is our list of some of the rarest and most expensive Lion King figures and collectibles on the market. Some of these items are shockingly high prices, while others are actually within the realm of possibility for those of us not capable of handing over thousands of dollars for a collectible.

Swarovski the Lion King 6 Piece Set- $1,000

This set was released in 2010 along with a series of special lithographs to go along with it. Made with the beautiful Swarovski crystals, these 6 Lion King figures are absolutely breathtaking. It includes Mufasa, Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, The Lion King title plaque and a gorgeous sunset display. The display features a removable colored backdrop and really adds another element to this set. Since it is both rare and incredibly stunning, this piece can sell for over $1,000.

Lion King Sandicast Sculptures by Sandra Brue- $900

This gorgeous set of hand sculpted Lion King figures is truly a masterpiece. The entire set can go for a truly high price, especially if the condition is excellent. Much like any collectible items the more mint the condition, the higher you can sell it for. Finding this complete set still in the box can actually fetch around $900-$1,000 to the right buyer who just cannot wait to snag these incredible beauties for their collection.

Disney Totem Pole Big Fig Statue- $800

This limited edition figure was created for the 10th anniversary of the Lion King in 2004. It is around 2 feet tall and the size plays a big part in its value. Depending on having the original packaging and the condition of this piece, it can sell for $700-$900 to the right collector who cannot live without this incredible wooden style sculpture.

Simba Bronze 20 Year Service Statue on Wooden Base- $700

This was a gift for Disney employees who worked for the company for 20 years and was never available to the general public. Being that it was exclusively given to employees for their 20 years of service to the company, this beautiful bronze statue is both rare and highly valuable. It can sell anywhere from $700-$1,000 and is truly hard to find. It is around 8 inches tall and is truly stunning in its detail and the way it just shines. This piece is both rare and incredibly valuable, making it a very special Lion King item.

WDCC “Life’s Not Fair, Is It” Scar Collectible Figure- $690

This figures from the Classics Collection which started in 1992, is a rather limited run of a gorgeous iconic item. It is from the Walt Disney Collectors Society and is a members only figure. Some of these figures tend to rise more in value depending on just how desirable they have become and how significant the release is. This gorgeous Scar piece is definitely one that is a desirable and hard to come by item, often selling for just under $700.

WDCC “No One Saying See Here” Set- $400

This gorgeous WDCC set features young Simba and Nala along with Zazu. It comes from the iconic scene for “Just Can’t Wait to Be King” and is certainly well crafted piece. This is a numbered and limited edition item which sold just under 2,000 pieces in total. Anything with such a low number and such an exclusive release, is certain to rise in price for true collectors who cannot wait to get their hands on it. This gorgeous set can sell for around $500 or even higher sometimes depending on the collector.

WDCC Simba and Mufasa “Pals Forever”- $300

Another touching and iconic scene from the Lion King, this one features Mufasa and Sumba playing together. It can rise in value depending on condition of the figure and the box it comes in. Most collectors don’t want to pay top dollar for something that does not have all of the pieces in perfect condition, oddly enough this includes the packaging it comes in.

Disney Traditions Birthday Train Sumba by Jim Shore- $120

This absolutely stunning little Simba piece is by the very popular Jim Shore. Many of the Jim Shore collectibles are highly sought after for Disney fans, and so that makes some of his limited pieces truly valuable. After these figures have sold out they can certainly become difficult to come by without paying higher than original market value. This figure is an example of that and can sell for over $100 to the right collector.

Vintage Mattel The Lion King Deluxe Collectible Figure Gift Set- $100

This adorable gift set features 12 of the iconic characters from the Lion King, and is certainly one that many kids played with back when it was released. Now that this collectible set is coming on in age, most of them have been misplaced or are seriously showing how well they were loved. Because of this finding a set in the box which is complete and in great condition, can raise the price of these figures. The set together in good condition can sell for over $100, making it a nice piece for anyone who still has it intact.

 

While some of these are far rarer and more expensive than others, they are all truly beautiful pieces. For any Lion King fan these items are definitely ones to be in awe of. Anyone who is lucky enough to get their hands on these pieces for their collection is truly blessed. Even if you can’t seem to scrape up enough cash for some of these pricier items, it is still pretty exciting to see how special they are. So as Timon and Pumbaa would say, Hakuna Matata!

Top 10 Most Expensive and Rarest Marvel Spider-Man Action Figures and Collectibles

Top 10 Most Expensive and Rarest Spider-Man Figures and Collectibles

Let’s face it, most people are fans of Spider-Man, whether they grew up enjoying the comics, TV series or movies, there are few people who don’t enjoy Spider-Man and what he represents. Since our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is so deeply lovable, the collectibles and figures associated with him can be incredibly expensive. Some of the harder to come by figures can sell for some truly astronomical prices, which makes them even more desirable for some collectors.

For anyone who is a collector of things, it is well-known that something rarer is going to end up selling for a higher price. The lower the LE and the harder to acquire, the more people seem to truly want to get their hands on these items. Spider-Man is not short on truly wanted items, and certainly not short on expensive ones. For anyone who is intrigued by some of the higher ticket collectibles, this list is definitely one for you viewing pleasures. So here is our list of some of the most expensive and rarest Spider-Man figures on the market. The great thing is that this list includes a variation of different styled figures and collectibles. Making it much more eclectic to give you an idea of the options out there for collectors.

1. Spider-Man Vs Gray Hulk Diorama Sample- $9,000

To be completely fair, this item is somewhat cheating and so it makes the list but just for the sake of sharing with everyone. It isn’t quite a simple figure, since it is an entire diorama with a scene which is extremely detailed and large. Being that this item is a sample and extremely rare, it can sell for some shockingly high prices. Right now it is listed online for around $9,000 but of course that would be top dollar for this item. It is an incredibly detailed and awe-inspiring item, which also has light up elements within it.

2. San-Diego Comic Con Lego Spider-Man- $4,200

This little Lego figure from 2013 is actually quite a rare item which can sell for a pretty penny. It can sell for anywhere from $3,000-$4,000 depending on condition and if the figure is still in its original packaging. This was actually from a raffle at SDCC, which is what makes it even more rare and valuable for collectors. You wouldn’t necessarily imagine that a tiny little Lego could be so expensive, but this one most certainly is. That makes it one of the most valuable Spider-Man figures, in a rather tiny package.

3. Spider-Man Sideshow Exclusive Numbered Figure Bust- $3,300

This Spider-Man is numbered and limited of only 500 ever made, which is exactly why it is so rare and expensive. Whenever something is so limited it becomes even more desirable for collectors. Having something which is rare and hard to come by, is definitely enticing for true collectors. When you have a collection of special items you want the ones that not everyone can get their hands on. Because of its limited number and exclusivity, this Sideshow Collectibles figure can sell for thousands of dollars.

4. Spider-Man Legendary Scale Figure By Sideshow Collectibles- $2,000

This figure sells this much from Sideshow Collectibles now, which means after it sells out the value is likely to increase even more. Sideshow is known to have some of the priciest figures ever made, but this is because they are also the most beautiful and incredibly detailed figures. This 24 inch tall Spider-Man figure only has 275 ever made, making it highly limited edition. The eyes in this figure can also be swapped out for a different look, which makes it even more unique.

5. Neca Spider-Man Life Size Foam Figure- $1,200

Standing around 5’8” tall this figure is made of foam rubber and latex which is put together to make a truly realistic piece. While it certainly looks quite a bit like a replica of our favorite Spider-Man, it does not come cheap and is often sold out in most places. For any obsessive Spider-Man fans with a collectible room set up just for their favorite superhero, this is certainly an item they would want to display proudly.

6. Mego World’s Greatest Superhero Spider-Man Figure- $1,000

While out of the box this figure doesn’t offer quite the same value and rarity, it can be rather pricey in mint condition. Being that this figure is rather old it can be hard to find it in excellent condition, and so that is what makes it even more valuable if you can find a great box.

7. Funko Pop Metallic Spider-Man SDCC Exclusive- $1,000

While Funko Pops are definitely popular figures, they can range from $10 and go up to thousands of dollars in value. Most of the more expensive and rare Funko collectibles are the ones which are released exclusively for comic conventions, with very limited edition sizes. This Metallic Spider-Man figure can sell for around $1,000 and only has 480 in existence. Released in 2011 it has continued to ride and value and will likely hold its price for a long time to come.

8. Spider-Man 2099 Sideshow Collectibles- $705

This gorgeous LE 1500 figure it actually available right now on the Sideshow website and is selling for $705. Being that the price is already rather high, this only proves how valuable this item will be once the LE runs out. Being that only 1500 people will be able to say they own this gorgeous figure, the price could certainly ride after it sells out.

9. Spider-Man Toy Biz Prototype Figure- $450

Prototypes are often valuable pieces, simply because they are so unique and limited. This 14 inch hand painted item is certainly one that true collectors would love to get their hands on. While it might not be the most expensive item on the list it is certainly a valuable piece and one that is very rare and hard to come by. The rarity makes it even more appealing and it can sell for over $400, sometimes even more.

10. 1977 Mego SPIDERMAN Action Figure Marvel Comics 12″ Vintage 1970’S w/SpiderWeb – $314

There are certainly even more valuable and incredibly rare Spider-Man figures out there, some of which are rather hard to get your hands on. These prices can seem rather exorbitant to most of us, but to a collectors it can be worth the price tag and effort it takes to obtain their most desired item. Collectors don’t often focus so much on the price, but rather the emotional and sentimental value which these collectibles can hold for them. Having the best collection is about more than being able to show it off to people, it is about feeling closer to this character, TV Show, Movie, Comic or Book which you are completely in love with. There is a nostalgia and a sentimentality which truly means a lot to collectors, and because of this the price seems a bit less painful for those who can afford some of these more expensive items.

The Most Important Things to Know About Disney Pin Trading

The Most Important Things to Know About Disney Pin Trading

Anyone who is a Disney park goer or just loves Disney in general, has probably heart about Disney trading pins. There are so many different things to know, since these pins start from cheaper pins, to extremely pricey and details creations. While there are the basics of pin trading and understanding how to go about trading in the parks, there are many other details which are important to know when you are diving a little deeper into the hobby. We have already discussed some of the more basic information for a beginner, but someone who is looking to really learn everything they can about this hobby, really needs to take a step further to lean more and understand what it is all about.

Where and When To Trade

It is important to know when and where to trade your Disney pins, since you have plenty of options but knowing where to start isn’t always easy. Pins can be traded in the parks with cast members, but you can also trade with other collectors within and outside of the parks. You can always trade online in various social media groups, but for some this can seem a bit riskier than they are comfortable with, and so trading within the parks is a more secure option. Trading online can be good for people who don’t live close to a park, you just have to be sure to check the persons activity in those social media accounts and do their best to be sure they are trustworthy.

While there aren’t official trading days, except for special events, Thursday and Sunday are commonly the popular days for fans trading in the parks.

Epcot houses a great pin trading spot called Pin Central, where you can find cast members and guests ready to trade with you. At Disney Springs you should definitely check out Disney’s Pin Traders. There are numerous other places to trade in the parks, but the important thing to remember is always be polite and follow proper trading etiquette. Not only will this gain happier responses and more helpful cast members, it is just the right thing to do.

Edition Sizes

Each pins will have a different amount made, some ranging from very low edition sizes to rather large amounts made. It is important to understand the difference, since this does often affect the value of each pin and how rare it actually is. While it isn’t the end all be all of Disney pins, you want to be sure you are getting something fair if you are trying to trade with other collectors.

Open Edition or OE pins are ones that don’t have a limited number made and basically were mass produced until they decided to stop selling them. This often makes the pins less valuable, although some older OE pins can be a bit rarer. These can still be really cool pins to collect, especially if you want some easy pins to trade with cast members, ones that aren’t quite as expensive or rare.

Limited Release pins are created with smaller numbers and are a bit rarer than most OE pins. While some of these are harder to obtain, they aren’t usually that difficult. They can still be great traders or just fun pins to collect and add to your board or lanyard. They can generally be limited release for certain holidays or events, but what you really wanted to look out for is the limited edition pins.

Limited Edition or LE pins are made with a specific number and that amount is not exceeded in the creation process. While there are LE pins with higher numbers made such as 6,000-8,000, there are a few out there which are rather limited and rare. The higher LE pins can still be somewhat valuable and hard to acquire, especially the older ones. There are other limited pins which are released with 250, 100 or even a few with just around 15 ever made. The really low ones are nearly impossible to find or track down, but ones like the 250 just tend to surface with a somewhat high price tag on them.

The Different Types of Pins

There are often different acronyms used in the pin world, which can confuse some newbies when approaching this hobby. It can seem a bit overwhelming at first, but just take your time learning and before you know it you will be a pro. Here are a few of the basic phrases that are helpful to know as a first time collector, especially since some of these can be rather rare.

HM (Hidden Mickeys)

These pins cannot be purchased, they can only be traded with cast members in order to obtain. While they aren’t especially rare, they are really just done to be a fun way to trade and hunt down these sets as they come out. They are called hidden Mickeys’ because they have a little silver mickey head hidden somewhere on the pin.

PTD

The PTD pins stand for Pin Traders Delight and they are sold at the Disney Soda Fountain Store in Hollywood (DSF). These pins are sold accompanying a delicious sundae treat, and the pins themselves actually have some sort of ice cream design with the character enjoying them. They are limited edition pins and are actually rather hard to get your hands on, some collectors only focus on filling up their PTD collection and nothing else.

WDI

This stands for Walt Disney Imagineering, and this is where some of the absolute rarest and most desirable pins are sold. Most of the pins here can only be purchased by cast members, and this is a major reason why they are so rare. They come in low LE sizes and can often be resold for some truly high values. One of the more popular series are the Disney profiles which are cast member exclusives and are sold as WDI pins. These pins are not only rare, they are also truly beautiful and usually some of the more details creations (usually).

DSF

DSF stands for Disney Soda Fountain Store, which is in Hollywood and sells some of the more limited and hard to come by pins. While PTDs are sold here, there are many other amazing limited edition pins which are also exclusive to the DSF. These are often some of the more desirable pins, and are certainly ones you want to get your hands on if you have a chance. They make for excellent traders if they aren’t something you personally collect.

Cast Member Exclusive

This just means a pin that is exclusively sold to Disney cast members as a special perk for their hard work. It can often be a tough job for cast members and so as a nice little benefit they get to purchase some of the most sought after and limited pins that Disney sells.

Scrappers

These aren’t anything good and are often the exact thing you should avoid as a collector. Scrappers are fake pins made cheaply so that people can sell them, oftentimes on eBay. The unfortunate things about these pins is that cast members are not allowed to trade for them, but they don’t always recognize the harder to notice details that set them apart. Some cast members might not notice the fakes, and so they do often end up circulating in the parks.

Fantasy Pins

These are not scrappers, and are often designed by people who want to create pins which do not exist. The people who design and create these fantasy pins often make it very clear that their pins are not made by Disney and cannot be traded with cast members in the parks. They are fan made pins, mostly done as a way to create something inspired by Disney and have a little fun doing it. Much like other types of official Disney pins, these fantasy pins can have truly popular followings and some fans who only collect them.

While understanding these details is important, there is a great big magical world of Disney pin trading out there to uncover. Learning these pieces of information and important steps will help you get one step closer to being a pin trading expert. The most important thing to remember is to have fun with the process, and don’t get too hung up on the pins you miss out on.

The 7 Most Valuable and Sought After PC Games

The 7 Most Valuable and Sought After PC Games

While the video game market has many expensive and rare games in existence, PC games are not often thought of in this way. Most PC games are readily available on the market, but they are also rather easy for most people to obtain illegally. With the way computer games can be so easily downloaded online, it really removes that potential for becoming a rare or even valuable game. Making these games so easy to come by, makes it so that they don’t increase in value or become anything that rare for collectors. It seems most computer games are simply meant to be played and enjoyed, and really don’t have much of a collector value.

While this is true of most of these games, there are still a few which can be rather valuable and hard to come by. These are often specific editions which makes them a little more intriguing for collectors and major fans of the game or franchise. While most of these games aren’t as crazy valuable as some more rare consoles like Nintendo or older PlayStation games, they still have a certain collector desirability which makes them good to get your hands on. There are a few of these collectors sets which are actually crazy valuable for the right collector, and can go for some of the highest prices for games ever.

World of Warcraft Collector’s Edition

Released in 20014, this is most certainly one of the most insanely valuable PC game collector’s editions ever made. Of course anyone who pays even the slightest attention to the gaming world has heard about WOW and the many, many fans attached to the game. It is one of the most popular PC games to exist in a very long time, which is why it is no surprise that it holds on of the most valuable games editions. This collector’s edition includes quite a pack of items, and was released with a very limited number which obviously sold out rather quickly. It includes CD and DVD-ROM of the game, and online CD-Key, a DVD with behind the scenes extras, a hardcover The Art of World of Warcraft book, game world map, soundtrack, and exclusive digital in-game pet, a game manual and lastly a special CD-Key for a friend to try the game for 10 days. Obviously just like any collector’s item, the value of this depends entirely on how intact it actually is. With everything unopened and the keys still valid, this can fetch around $4,000 on the secondary market, while with used items it can still get around $1,000 depending on condition of the items. This is by far the most valuable PC game edition, while the prices might seem a bit high it is still fetching these values online.

 

Zak McKraken and the Alien Mindbenders (1988)

Obviously a major reason for this value is the fact that it is such an old game with quite the nostalgic feel for some people. It was rereleased recently on digital copy for rather cheap, so fans can still play it but that doesn’t negate the value of the game in its original glory. The story follow Zak McKraken while he teams up with pals to try to fight against an alien invasion, where aliens use a Mind Bending Machine to make everyone, well…stupid (wait is this game real life? Just Kidding!). This was thought to be a truly an amazing game, one of the best adventure games to be created, and that is why it is so valuable now for collectors. It can sell for a couple thousand dollars depending on condition and if it is unopened. But for anyone just wanting to enjoy the game it was released on digital and won’t cost you much at all.

 

Ultima

While this series can be easy to get your hands on, the boxed versions are actually rather valuable and limited. This series was massively popular, and while the first few games didn’t hold the test of time, the later editions to the series are still very playable. It entirely depends on the boxed set and the condition but certain ones can go for around $1,200.

 

Commander Keen: Aliens Ate My Babysitter! (1991)

This game was released in a series and was the final edition in the Commander Keen series. It was released in 1991 as a side scrolling platform game, where the player controls an 8 year old boy who takes on the identity of Commander Keen while travelling through space and encountering adventures. It was released in a boxed set and in good condition can sell for around $1,000. For a PC game this is certainly a valuable one, especially when you find the right collector who wants to get their hands on it.

 

Mortal Kombat I and II

Mortal Kombat is definitely a highly desirable and beloved series, and so collectors often go crazy for just about any version they can get their hand on. While they might already own other copies on different platforms, fans just want to boast owning as much as they can about a series they truly love. It certainly fetches a nostalgic feeling for most fans, and so the bundled Mortal Kombat I and II can fetch around $500 in good condition.

 

Maniac Mansion

This point and click adventure game follows a teenager who seeks to rescue his girlfriend by going into a mad scientists mansion to find her. This game can go for $200 on PC, while the Commodore 64 version can go for around $600.

 

Fallout 3: Survival Edition

While this entire series has become extremely popular, that is a major reason while some of the collector’s editions can fetch a nice chunk of money. Fans want to get their hands on any of these versions they can, and enjoy having the cool factor of owning these collector’s editions with maps and various trinkets and info inside of them. Depending on the condition they can sell for $200-$500 online, making it pretty dang valuable for a PC game.

 

Fortnite Funko Pops Are a Thing, And You Probably Need Them Now!

Fortnite Funko Pops Are a Thing, And You Probably Need Them Now!

If you haven’t heard about the very popular Epic game called Fortnite, than you are probably living under a rock. And that rock is in a cave, out in the middle of nowhere, where you have zero contact with anything or anyone. Whether you love it or hate it, you at least know a little bit about this obsession which has taken over the gaming community in a lot of ways.

Fortnite is not just an online multiplayer game, it also has a story mode which it seems most people don’t care much to experience. The upside is that the online version is a free download which draws in a lot of players. Don’t worry though, the game creators get your money by coming out with new skins and emotes which require you to have something called V-Bucks, and to really have enough you definitely need to pay for them. For some it is necessary to buy a few skins, for others it seems a bit like a waste of money when it doesn’t improve your gameplay whatsoever. Either way there are some pretty cool looking and even cute looking skins available for players of all types. A nice addition to this game is that it seems to market to just about everyone, and doesn’t seem made for just one type of person.

Just a quick run through of the gameplay for anyone who actually does live under a rock and is now crawling out of their dank hole (no not the cool type of dank, I mean the damp kind). Your objective is to kill your enemies and to stay within the eye of the storm, since being on the outside of the storm will ultimately kill you. This game is not just about finding good loot and taking out your enemies, it is also majorly about your building skills. It requires that players collect building supplies and use their building abilities to create ramps and fortresses in order to protect you from your enemies. While there is a lot more to it than this, you pretty much get the gist.

The point of this article isn’t to talk about the game itself, since most of us are aware of its existence and extreme hype. We are here to show you the recent Funko Pop releases based on familiar skins in the Fortnite world. This is certainly something to create game with collectors who also find themselves obsessed with the game, which is probably why Funko sought to make a deal with Fortnite for these figures. Well they have arrived and are actually pretty awesome looking, with 14 different skins and variants included in the lineup. Thankfully most of them are easy to grab commons, with just a small amount of exclusives.

Crackshot

This one actually is an exclusive, so it might be a bit harder to come by. Crackshot is basically a terrifying nutcracker skin, perfect for any creepy Christmas time look. It is exclusive to Walmart with the sticker and everything, so it might not be the easier to acquire since Walmart is not known for stocking their shelves very well before workers can snag them.

Red Nose Raider

This chick is all adorned in her Christmas sweater and Reindeer antlers, along with a Christmas bow pickaxe. This Funko Pop is in fact an exclusive to Gamestop, so it might be a little bit more challenging to get your hands on.

Codename E.L.F.

This somewhat dorky looking Elf skin is an exclusive to Target, so it might be a bit more challenging to obtain. Usually these types of exclusives can be somewhat difficult to get your hands on, since collectors and flippers will rush to their local stores before they even open. Hopefully they stock enough so that they don’t become hard to come by for fans who just want to collect the entire set.

Omega

The Omega skin is obviously an iconic skin and a major player in the game itself, so Funko had to turn this guy into a Pop figure.

Bright Bomber

While she might be a more iconic and recognizable Fortnite skin, this one absolutely drives me insane to look at.

Tower Recon Specialist

One of the more basic skins in Fortnite, but still it makes sense to be a classic one for Funko to create. This one is rather easy to snag and isn’t an exclusive, so for collectors wanting the entire set it should go for the typical $10 range in stores or even from resellers.

Highrise Assault Trooper

Black Knight

Raptor

Moonwalker

A little cooler than the typical skins, this chick is a big of a spacey one. With her space suit adorned with a nice pair of sunglasses, she looks ready for absolutely nothing…or I guess she looks pretty cool.

Skull Trooper

This is a relatively popular skin which wasn’t released that long ago. For anyone looking for a spookier style, this one is absolutely perfect for Halloween. It isn’t an exclusive so thankfully for collectors it shouldn’t be too hard to snag yourself. It seems to be selling for a little higher than market value after its release, but just waiting around should get you a restock.

Love Ranger

To be honest this skin has always creeped me out and reminds me of the Weeping Angels from Doctor Who. I suppose this one is supposed to be more like a cupid or some sort of lovey skin, but in all honesty it just freaks me out. It seems to be increasing a little bit since its release but it should be restocked and easy to acquire since it is not an exclusive.

Merry Marauder

Another adorable seasonal skin, this looks like a very angry gingerbread man. The Merry Marauder should be another easy to come by Pop, since it is not exclusive to anywhere and is just a common which should see many restocks.

Cuddle Team Leader

A somewhat more well-known or popular skin is the Cuddle Team Leader, which is basically just a giant pink teddy bear. Whether you love or hate this skin it is definitely one that Funko had to make into a Pop for this Fortnite collection.

 

The Biggest Dos and Don’ts For Planning Your Disney Vacation

The Biggest Dos and Don’ts For Planning Your Disney Vacation

While it is important to enjoy the moment when you are at Disney, it is also truly important to consider all of your options and do a little research. In order to really have the best vacation possible, it is great to learn a few tips of things you should and shouldn’t do when planning your vacation. Here are some of the biggest dos and don’ts for planning your Disney vacation.

Do Make Dining Reservations Ahead of Time

Many people think you can simply show up at Disney and walk into most of the restaurants. While this is the case for some, it isn’t accurate for the more desirable reservations. If you know of certain dining experiences you don’t want to miss out on, you should start making them 180 days out. This might sound drastic, but when it comes to Disney you need to plan ahead in order to get the most rewarding experience. Many of the reservations fill up rather quickly, and so picking them up as quickly as you can simply saves you that extra effort later on.

Tip: While it is important to try and snag these reservations ahead of time, you might find yourself learning about certain restaurants when it is a bit too late. You can use your My Disney Experience app to check on any potential reservations that might be available. A great way to keep an eye out for any cancellations that might occur without constantly flipping through your MDE app, is by using MouseDining.com. This website allows you to input the date and time you want for each restaurant, and you will receive a text or email when one pops up. It is important to jump on this quickly because other people will be waiting for certain reservations as well.

Don’t Forget to Budget

Oftentimes people forget to budget and really stay on this budget, and that can be a major mistakes at Disney. While you want to be able to purchase the souvenirs and enjoy the treats, you also need to be sure you aren’t going over your budget. Disney can be extremely expensive, and so it is important to keep track of your spending. It can be rather easily to go over your budget much quicker than you would expect. If you don’t have some sort of budget in place you can end up blowing it before you are even halfway through your trip.

While Disney is an expensive place, it is still rather wonderful and should be enjoyed without stressing about money. If you make sure to plan your budget and stick to it, you will get much more out of their experience. It is important to make sure you don’t miss out on certain things because you have made the mistake of going without a budget to fit your needs.

Do Make Your FastPass+ Selections

While many people don’t take advantage of FastPasses because they don’t know about them, others just don’t realize how much they can improve your trip. Some people believe that FastPasses are simply for people who purchase them by spending extra money, but this is completely untrue! Your FastPass+ selections are included with your park admissions, or your resort reservation. With your ticket you can plan FastPasses 30 days ahead of time, but with your resort reservation you can make these plans 60 days ahead.

It is vital to plan out which rides you want passes for, and have everything prepared before your 60 or 30 days mark. There are many people getting up first thing in the morning so that they can grab the absolute best passes for the hard to get rides. If you are up early enough you should be able to get everything you want, and this can make a huge difference for your trip experience. Some of these rides can have wait times of a couple hours, and of course this can put a real damper on your trip. If you don’t take advantage of your FastPass+ selection then you are really missing out on something important for the best Disney vacation.

You can schedule all of this with your My Disney Experience app, and everything will be linked together. Once your ticket and room reservation are linked, it makes it so you will be allowed access to FastPasses ahead of time and can get right to planning on the day you are ready, either 60 or 30 days out.

Don’t Overbook Your Trip

It is important not to overbook or overlap any of the important parts of your schedule. While you should plan your dining reservations and FastPasses, you should also consider parade times and firework schedules. You want to be able to include plenty of things, but if you aren’t careful you can overbook and feel a bit strapped for time. You want to have space to relax and enjoy your trip without feeling like you have to rush to make all of your reservations.

Do Purchase Magic Bands

It is helpful to purchase Magic Bands, even if you aren’t staying at one of the more official Disney resorts. If you are at a Disney resort it is a must have purchase, but it often comes included with your package. When you receive these Magic Bands they really are a great way to improve your Disney experience. You can use these for FastPass+ reservations, dining reservations, photo pass, as a room key and even to make charges to your credit card which is attached to your room.

This can be beneficial for people who aren’t staying at a Disney resort, since it can make your FastPass+ usage a real breeze. Having to take out your tickets and swipe them each time you go through a line, is exhausting after a while and can make you nervous that you might lose track of it. Having your Magic Band wrapped around your wrist makes it simple and fast to just swipe and continue through the line with ease. This is something that is great for anyone going to Disney and planning ahead, so this should be considered as a purchase you make even if you aren’t at a Disney resort which includes them with the package.

Don’t Forget About Disney Springs

Many people enjoy the parks and the resorts, but miss out on the Disney Springs experience. There is so much more to see at Disney Springs that everyone should take advantage of. There is plenty of amazing shopping, special dining experiences, and really active nightlife. There is a lot going on and many different events which are held at Disney Springs, and so this is something that should not be missed. It is a really wonderful experience with a really active environment, and plenty of shopping you won’t get to experience at the parks (even though there is a lot of shopping in the parks).

Do Check Out The Other Resorts

Most people don’t realize that you can check out all of the other resorts on Disney property, and you absolutely should! These places have some delicious dining options, gift shops and all around different atmospheres. It can be wonderful just to check out these other resorts and soak up their surroundings. You can hope around and see the different beautiful resorts and use this as a more relaxed day during your tripe. It can be nice just to take a day for this, since if you are planning a longer trip the parks can definitely be tiring and a good rest is needed.

Don’t Forget Your Confirmation Numbers

While it isn’t often an issue, it is still helpful to write down all of your confirmation numbers and information in a small notebook. If you have these numbers recorded and often printed out from your emails, it can really be a great backup for if things go wrong. While Disney is great at accommodating when things go wrong, it best to be prepared since this will make your trip much more relaxing. Having all of your confirmations printed out and with you during your trip, will ensure that if something goes wrong you have this information backed up. The app can be a bit wonky at times, and so having this information is definitely something that is highly recommended.

Do Enjoy Yourself!

In the end the most important thing is to take advantage of your opportunities and just make the most of your vacation. Disney is a magical place where you can enjoy being with loved ones and just soak up the feeling of being in another world. Enjoy yourself and take in your surroundings without allowing yourself to become too caught up in making things perfect.