How Do You Start Collecting Diecast Toys?

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Written By Sam Jackson
I'm Sam Jackson, a dedicated toy collector whose passion covers everything from classic vintage action figures to the latest high-tech toys.I share my journey and insights through Grandcollector.com.

If you’re new to diecast collecting, you may wonder how you start collecting diecast toys.

In this article, we’ll cover everything, from how I got started with my Diecast collection to what models I should look for and the best places to buy them.

How Do You Start Collecting Diecast Toys?

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There are no hard and fast rules to follow. However, knowing what kinds of vehicles you want to collect can help you find diecast models that fit together well for a larger collection, whether you’re into cars and trucks, trains and trams, buses and coaches, military machines, or the classic Dinky Toys.

You can collect they toys according to:

  • Scale – Popular scales for diecast models include 1:12, 1:36, and 1:43 (Dinky Toys).
  • Brand – Which brand of toys do you want to become an expert in, Dinky, Matchbox, or Mattel? Deeper still, are you specifically interested in Lamborghinis or supercars in general?
  • Period – Do you prefer cars from the 1960s, 1970s, or other eras? Modeling history can be captured very effectively by focusing on specific periods.

Storage and Displaying Your Diecast Collection

It’s important to think about where and how to store your diecast models, no matter how many you have. So here are some things to think about before showing off your prototype:

  • Display Case Type – Do you plan on purchasing a ready-made display case or working with a carpenter to create something special?
    • The first choice may be the best if you aren’t handy and want to get things done quickly. On the other hand, if you make a custom case for yourself, you can use the available space however you like.
  • Surrounding – Specifically, where will you keep your exhibit? Your diecast collection can be the focal point of any room with a properly arranged and illuminated display that considers the room’s existing design elements.
  • In or Out of Box – There are advantages to both, so it all comes down to personal preference. Do you wish to display the superiority of your models?
    • When you take your diecast models out of their packaging, you can arrange them however you like. Keeping them in boxes reduces your flexibility in arranging them but allows you to stack them, giving you more visual real estate.

Maintaining Your Diecast Models

Diecast models, like any other type of hobby or collection, require special care to ensure they retain their pristine condition long after purchase.

Diecast models require special storage conditions, including being kept dry and at room temperature. Additionally, regular dusting can help protect your diecast models from wear and corrosion.

Where to Buy Diecast Toys?

1. Amazon

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Amazon is the go-to for everything you want to buy anything. You can buy almost everything at Amazon. With free shipping on almost every item and a Prime Day sale. You can’t go wrong with Amazon.

I will always check on Amazon before other sites when buying diecast toys.

2. eBay

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www.ebay.com

The online auction site eBay is a great place to look for used diecast model cars. You can find super cheap cars for as little as €1.00, though they are likely the most damaged and may not even come in their original packaging.

If your kid loves playing with cars and would like a toy garage full of them, you may come across sales of multiple cars or other diecast vehicles in a single package. Serious collectors can type in the model they need and have a good chance of finding it in the listings, even if they have a higher price range.

Using the ‘Advanced Search’ function, you can locate stores near you that sell models you’re interested in buying so you can try them before making a final decision.

In addition, always check the seller’s feedback percentage; a low one may indicate that the seller is not to be trusted. Finally, always use PayPal to pay for your Diecastdiecast model car purchases on eBay, which will give you the most protection in a dispute.

3. Online Resellers

Why not buy from a reseller if you plan to resell diecast model cars for a profit? You can select your preferred scale, and traditional and electrostatic paint options will be available for the new models.

As a result, you can easily find what you’re looking for, be it a sports car, classic motor, service vehicle, or construction line, and often at very reasonable prices.

4. Jumble Sales, Charity Shops, Car Boot Sales

You might get lucky at garage sales, jumble sales, or thrift stores if you know your way around vintage model cars. Old Corgis are sometimes donated without their value being known, though this is less common now that people can easily find this information on Google.

Before you go…

I hope this article has given you some ideas on how to get started collecting diecast toys. As with any hobby, there are many options and different ways to do it. The most important thing is that you have fun!

Check out my next article: “Top 10: Best Diecast Cars to Collect! (1:18 Scale Edition)

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