Rare Finds on the Collector's Market: A Peek into the World of High-End Auctions and eBay Treasures

In the ever-evolving and passionate world of collectibles, the past week has seen a flurry of activity that has left collectors and enthusiasts alike buzzing with excitement. Amidst the quiet anticipation and fervent bidding wars, a particularly rare sighting on the open market has captured the attention of many: a DT Darth Vader, graded CAS85, which sold for a whopping USD $6,999 on eBay, we have however seen a U90 version sell for AUD$32,000 so that was actually a bargain. Such items, typically reserved for the hallowed halls of high-end auction houses, making a rare appearance on a platform as accessible as eBay, is a testament to the shifting dynamics of collectible trading.

This event coincides with the launch of the latest Hakes.com auction, a treasure trove for collectors, featuring items that span the breadth of rarity and nostalgia. Among the offerings, a unique trio of Jawa figures stands out, encompassing the American Kenner VCJ, Australian Toltoys VCJ, and Lili Ledy with a removable hood, all presented in a CAS75 graded display. These figures represent the pinnacle of Jawa collecting and underscore the diverse origins and histories of these iconic characters.

Adding to the allure of this auction is a limited-run ESB Special Action Display Stand, a rose-coloured gem of a piece, with very few counterparts ever discovered. This rarity is complemented by the inclusion of a Revenge of the Jedi cardback mock-up, as peculiar in appearance as it is scarce, alongside a Leia Boushh unreleased mockup, offering a glimpse into what might have been.

However, the round-up of rarities would not be complete without mentioning the AFA60Y Tri-Logo General Madine. Known among the collecting community for its scarcity, this tri-logo cardback variant is one of the rarest carded figure variations, seldom seen in public sales.

The market activity from March 2nd to 8th, 2024, showcases a bustling trade, with 911 items trading hands for a total of AUD 197,022.49. The days saw varying levels of activity, with a notable peak on Sunday, reflecting the continuous interest and investment in the world of collectibles.

Highlighting the top loose figures and Mint-On-Card (MOC) figures, the DT Saber Darth Vader and the Yellow Hair Luke Skywalker Farmboy (AFA85) led their respective categories, each fetching impressive prices and demonstrating the high stakes involved in collecting these prized pieces. Accessories and Power of the Force coins also saw significant trading, underscoring the wide-ranging appeal and depth of the collectibles market.

As we look forward to the closing of the current Hakes.com auction, the anticipation and excitement within the collecting community are palpable. The coming days promise to unveil the destinies of these rare and cherished items, as collectors around the globe vie for a chance to own a piece of history. Until next time, happy collecting!

A reminder to all enthusiasts: the world of collectibles is vast and full of wonders, and every auction brings new opportunities to discover and cherish. Good luck to all involved, and may your collections grow ever more fascinating.