My desk is covered in Lego sets, much to my parents’ dismay and my girlfriend’s annoyance. But these aren’t just toys – they’re investments.

Surprisingly, Lego can outperform stocks, bonds, and even art as an investment. Here’s why I’ve been collecting Lego for years, and how it might just be worth considering for your portfolio too.

Meta Description: Discover how Lego collectibles can be a lucrative alternative investment. Learn about valuable sets, market trends, and strategies for building your Lego portfolio.

Finding Valuable Lego Sets

The key to successful Lego investing lies in identifying sets with high potential for appreciation. Here’s a recent example from my own experience:

Case Study: Star Wars Set 75280 – 501st Legion Clone Troopers Battle Pack

• Initial Release Price: $19.99 CAD
• Re-release Price: $39.99 CAD
• Current Resale Value: $99.99 to $106.99 CAD (as of January 2022)

This set’s rapid appreciation can be attributed to several factors:

1. Limited edition figurines
2. Popularity of the Star Wars franchise
3. Scarcity due to limited production runs

Historical Performance of Star Wars Lego Sets

• Set 75089 (Geonosis Troopers Battle Pack):
  • Release Price (2015): $19.99 CAD
  • Current Resale Value: $404.98 CAD
  • Appreciation: Over 1900%
• Set 9525 (Pre Vizsla’s Mandalorian Fighter):
  • Release Price (2019): $149.99 CAD
  • Current Resale Value: $300.00 to $450.00 CAD
  • Appreciation: 100-200%

Factors Driving Lego Set Value

1. Limited Availability: Lego typically produces sets for a short period, creating scarcity.
2. Exclusive Themes: Sets tied to popular franchises like Star Wars often appreciate faster.
3. Unique Pieces: Sets containing rare or exclusive minifigures or pieces are highly sought after.
4. Nostalgia Factor: Classic sets can become more valuable over time as collectors seek childhood memories.

Lego as an Investment: By the Numbers

According to a study by HSE University Economists:

• Retired Lego sets can grow by 11% annually
• This outpaces traditional investments like gold, stocks, and bonds
• Of 2,322 Lego sets studied (1987-2015):
  • Price appreciation typically begins 2-3 years after retirementReturns range from -50% to +600% annuallySmall and very large sets tend to appreciate faster than medium-sized ones

Strategies for Lego Investing

1. Stay Informed: Keep up with Lego news and upcoming releases.
2. Focus on Popular Themes: Star Wars, Harry Potter, and other major franchises tend to perform well.
3. Buy Two, Keep One Sealed: Unopened sets generally command higher prices.
4. Look for Limited Editions: Event-exclusive or promotional sets can be highly valuable.
5. Consider Storage: Proper storage is crucial to maintain the set’s condition and value.

Risks and Considerations

While Lego investing can be profitable, it’s not without risks:

1. Market Volatility: Like any collectible market, prices can fluctuate.
2. Storage Costs: Keeping sets in mint condition requires space and proper storage.
3. Authenticity Concerns: The secondary market can have issues with counterfeit products.
4. Liquidity: Selling sets may take time, depending on market demand.

FAQs

1. Q: How do I start investing in Lego sets? A: Begin by researching popular themes and limited edition sets. Start small and diversify your collection.
2. Q: Where can I sell my Lego investments? A: Platforms like eBay, Bricklink, and specialized Lego marketplaces are popular options.
3. Q: How long should I hold onto a Lego set before selling? A: Generally, sets start appreciating 2-3 years after retirement, but some may take longer to reach peak value.
4. Q: Are all Lego sets good investments? A: No, focus on limited editions, popular themes, and sets with unique features for the best potential returns.
5. Q: How do I authenticate a Lego set on the secondary market? A: Look for original packaging, check piece counts, and familiarize yourself with Lego’s quality standards to spot fakes.

Conclusion

Investing in Lego collectibles offers a unique blend of nostalgia, fun, and potential financial gain. While it may not replace traditional investments in your portfolio, it can serve as an interesting and potentially lucrative alternative asset class.

As with any investment, due diligence, research, and a bit of patience are key to success. Whether you’re a long-time Lego enthusiast or a curious investor looking to diversify, the world of Lego investing offers exciting opportunities to build wealth, brick by brick.

Remember, while the potential returns can be attractive, the joy of collecting and the connection to beloved franchises and childhood memories are equally valuable aspects of this unique investment journey.

Call to Action: Ready to start your Lego investment journey? Begin by researching upcoming limited edition sets and popular themes. Consider joining online Lego investing communities to gain insights and stay updated on market trends. And don’t forget – sometimes the best investment is the one that brings you joy, so choose sets that resonate with your interests and passions.