Top Places to Source Disney Collectibles
Ever since Mickey Mouse made his first on-screen appearance in 1928, Disney became one of the most recognizable brands in the world. As a result, collecting Disney memorabilia, which is also known as Disneyana, has become a popular past-time among Disney geeks from all over the world. There are a few things to consider once you decide that you want to start your own Disney collection. The most important consideration is undoubtedly sourcing your collectibles Although you may come across a selection of nice finds on the official Disney websites, you can also source everything from Micky Mouse mugs to autographed posters at all of the Disney Parks, at online auctions, and by signing up for a subscription box service. Here are a few basic guidelines on where to find great additions to your growing Disney memorabilia collection.
Buy limited editions memorabilia at official Disney locations
Every Disney Park around the globe boasts a unique range of memorabilia that is specific to that particular location. A vast number of these items also qualify as a limited edition which means that may, in time, become rare collectibles with a high value. There are currently twelve Disney Parks in the world. These are located across the six Disney resorts which can be found in Florida, California, Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Although you will be able to pick up t-shirts, autograph books, pins, ears, pressed pennies, and Christmas ornaments at all of the parks, the style selection may differ significantly from park to park. If you are fortunate enough to travel the world, you can end up acquiring a very nifty memorabilia collection from the various Disney locations.
Sign up for a subscription box service
Subscription box services have become so popular in recent years that the e-commerce subscription service industry is now worth an excess of $10 billion, according to McKinsey. While subscription boxes are well-loved by connoisseurs of everything from wine and craft beer to coffee and chocolate, they also provide Disney enthusiasts with a great way to get their hands on new memorabilia. The service you sign up for will ultimately determine what types of memorabilia you receive. Popular items include t-shirts, pins, stickers, figurines, and stationery, with certain high-end boxes offering subscribers the opportunity to have limited-edition collectibles delivered to your doorstep. You may even come across a subscription service that will allow you to personalize the contents of your boxes as well as pick the frequency of deliveries.
Online auctions and garage sales are your friends
One of the best places to search for Disney collectibles is online auctions, especially if you are looking for specific items that are no longer being produced. There are a host of reputable online auction sites including Inside the Magic, Pristine Auction, and Live Auctioneers all boast an impressive selection of mementos that will be a welcome addition to any Disney collection. Garage sales and flea markets are also known to often harbor hidden gems. You might even be able to pick up a handful of rare collectibles at a fraction of their true value. Community groups on social media as well as the classifieds section of the local newspaper are good places to get the inside scoop on any sales and markets that might be happening in your area.
The world is filled with countless Disney collectibles just waiting to be discovered. If you are lucky, you may even come across a few gems that will be considered extremely valuable collector’s items one day.