AFA 'value' debate

[edd_jedi]

A figure I've just bought has raised a question. We all assume that AFA grading a figure instantly makes it more valuable, but at what point does it potentially harm the value and appeal of a piece?

It's obvious that an AFA 90 or even 95 significantly adds to the value, and something like an AFA 20 has practically been run over by a car so was probably worthless anyway :lol: But I've just got an AFA 60 Jawa that has card and figure grades of 80/85, but a few bubbles dents which have given it an overall 60. A bit harsh I think, and also I'm considering opening it as I don't think an AFA 60 is going to appeal to anybody, where as a C8 with a couple of bubble dents probably sounds better!

Thoughts?

 

[aussiejames]

If it's a VC jawa or ROJ I'd still open it. Put it in an acrylic case- job done.

 

[Chewie]

If you take it out of the afa case i think it would up in value....If it was for sale and people saw the afa 60 some would dismiss it without really looking just because of the grade. Whereas if it was ungraded people would have to make their own mind up for condition, and from what you've said they would probably think it would achieve a grade of 75/80.....

I'd take it out anyway

 

[silver grin]

I can see both sides of the debate. I remember bidding on DSC on an esb card that was an AFA 50 and it still sold for around £100. Would an ungraded version have sold for as much?

I agree with what you're saying Edd but then again if it's been through AFA's hands then at least you know for sure it's genuine and not a fake

 

[weasel]

I'd say you'll probably get more it if you take out of its case.

 

[PIGCITY]

I personally don't like the look of the acrylic coffins and would rather see a fig without one

 

[Caswellbot]

I think PIGCITY has a valuable point. They do look better without cases of any king but for the sake of preservation they need to be stored in cases really.

With regards to the Jawa Edd, I say go for it and take it out mate. The guys are right, the case adds nothing in this instance to the value.

I honestly dont think getting figures graded adds much value to them any more. I think a few years back grded figures commanded a premium but now I dont think they do so much. You will always have 85' and 90's going for top money but not 80's and below. I always think you should simply add the value of the grading process to the price of the item. I dont think it should necessarily "add value" as such. The AFA is a service. It surely cannot contribute to appreciating the value of an item in any other way than this? The item surely doesnt become more valuable. Its the same item.

 

[Vernon]

IMO:
If you want to sell take it out of the case.
My VC Jawa got a grade of 75 (at work so cant check but subgrades are around 65,85,85). The 65 relates to a scratch on the back of the card!

 

[Caswellbot]

**** Vernon thats harsh. Its a load of old balls really. I bet it displays like an 80-85 at least.

Chris. 8)

 

[edd_jedi]

Thanks guys. No intention of selling and I prefer star cases as you can take them out. So I guess it will be free'd later

It's a 12 back by the way.

 

[Vernon]

Im happy.. because of the grade it wasnt too overpriced!

heres a (crappy) picture:

 

[trilogoman]

I have no AFA graded figures at all and I don't think I'll have one in the future. It simply bothers me when I can not touch the card, bubble with my own hands. And the smell is great too.

 

[Paul-itoy]

I saw the one you are talking about, and would've bid had I not won one from the US the day before (for £50 more too ). Freeing it might also give you the opportunity to remove that bloody awful sticker on it too. I reckon it's the right thing to do.

 

[plantman]

Ive had a few afa 75 that wouldnt sell, until i removed them from the case and got far more interest in them.

if its below an 80 im afraid its not worth it unless its for your personal collection.

Also some grading is terrible, i have a MOTU Faker thats an AFA 75 and its a real beauty, with a small crease in the corner, i cant shift it, so thats next on the removal agenda

i dont care if it screws the AFA reports lol


Andy