A toy collector and appraiser for decades, as well as Roadshow Manager for the Antique Toy Buying Show, Joel Magee offers advice for the novice toy collector.

1. Tips for Toy Collectors
By: Joel Magee

2. About Joel Magee
A toy collector and appraiser
for decades, as well as
Roadshow Manager for the
Antique Toy Buying Show,
Joel Magee offers advice for
the novice toy collector.
Photo: Emily M. Wells/STAFF
The Press-Enterprise

3. Getting Started
Toy collecting is an exciting hobby, but all too
often people jump into buying collectors' items
without a clear direction or plan. The most
successful toy collectors put forethought and
strategy into their purchases. Here are some
ideas to get you started:

4. 1. Select a specific toy line.
Pick a category such as model cars, dolls, or
action figures. A collection of just one type of
toy can still be limitless. Having a goal in
collecting allows you to learn more about your
particular niche and acquire items of greater
value and significance.

5. 2. Set aside storage space.
Don't allow your home to become overrun with
clutter. Set up storage for your collection,
whether it is a separate unit or a specific room
in your house. This keeps your collection
contained, protects and preserves your valuable
items, and allows you to keep track of what you
own and what you still want to add to your
collection.

6. 3. Limit yourself to a hobby budget.
By setting aside a “play fund,” you can allow
yourself to strategically purchase collectibles
without worrying about over-spending or
incurring overwhelming debt. A limited budget
can also keep your collection focused instead of
growing too fast and containing pieces from
many different lines.