Finding a Focus for Your Collection

As collectors, we are constantly struggling with the blanace between what we simply enjoy as a fan versus what we can afford or should collect.

It’s overwhelming at first - so many possibilities and subjects are possible. It’s one of the things we all love about Star Wars - we have a literal universe of options. But with that comes a need to constantly evaluate - do I really need this autograph? Of course we don’t really need any, but you get my point - does it fit your focus? Are you really THAT interested in the subject matter?

Time and time again we see comments in the group like “Lorne Peterson has a singing coming up - what should I get him on?” Will you really miss out if you don’t participate? I think a lot of this is due to the thrill of participating, seeing what our friends get signed, getting a package in the mail, etc. By nature we don’t like feeling “left out.” But with that comes some difficult decisions - remember in the end, it’s just ink. Too many times I’ve seen people who are just starting out feel the need to participate in every signing without any consideration of why they are doing it.

As a collector, I’ve refocused my collection several times. Just like a lot of things in life our interests ebbs and flows - new movies or content comes out that might blow you away, and it’s nice to have the flexibility to change course if you want. Even better if you can do so without taking a financial beating. This is why choosing items that have broader appeal, and no personalizations is always a wise decision. This gives you the flexibility to get max dollar at the time you choose to ‘trade in’ or ‘upgrade’ your collection too. Collect what you want, but be smart; you never know what the future could bring or if your tastes might change one day.

In summary, consider the following variables:

• What do you like most - statues, photos, posters, action figures, trading cards?

• Is the item conducive to holding an autograph, think about the surface type or material, size, etc.

• Do you like particular movies, scenes, or characters more that others?

• Do you have a greater appreciation for the on-screen talent, or those who contributed behind the scenes?

• Could the item you’re thinking about getting signed be considered a fad or have very limited appeal?

• Do you have the means to properly store or display said items?