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OCT
2006

G.I. Joe 3 and 3/4 inch Collector's Buying Guide

Buying Guide
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I thought it would be best to construct this GI Joe Buying Guide as a list of some important facts and tips to consider while purchasing GI Joes for a collection. Most of this guide will pertain specifically to Ebay, but can be used wherever Joes are sold. So here we go...

Visit this page for a list of terms commonly used by sellers and collectors when describing GI Joe items and their conditions.

OCT
2006

GI Joe Buying Tips (Page 1)

1. When checking Ebay feedback, don't assume that a seller is trustworthy and professional just because there is a high percentage of positives. Read some of the actual feedback comments left. You may find that shipping is very slow or that items purchased are not as described.

2. For reasons that I do not fully understand, it is sometimes possible to purchase a Mint on Card figure where there is minor damage to the card, for only slightly more than the same figure as a Mint Loose Complete. This usually applies to later figures from 88 to 94 and beyond. For example, I've seen several slightly damaged MOC Night Vipers sell for around $24, while MLC Night Vipers commonly sell for around $16. In my mind, that is not much more to pay, even if you plan on opening the bubble. You'll have a Viper that is mint, as in "never before touched", as well as a full filecard back.

3. Don't ignore "Buy it Now" items while searching Ebay. Some great deals can be found by perusing listings that can be purchased immediately. Grab the best bargains before they're gone by finding the GI Joe 3 and 3/4 inch sub-category, clicking on "Buy it Now" items, and then sorting the listings so that the the "newly listed" items are first.

4. People do not like to bid on auctions or buy items where money orders are the only payment option. Add at least 50 cents to a dollar for money order fees at Wal-Mart or the US Post Office; add the time and hassle of traveling to either location; and then tack on the money for a stamp. If that doesn't scare you away from buying, you may be able to get a much lower overall price. Already headed to Wal-Mart or the Post Office? Then bid or buy!

5. Some later carded figures from the early 90's are still available for purchase at reasonable prices. Not only will you find them on Ebay, there are several GI Joe retailers online that sell these MOC Joes at fair prices.

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