Vintage Star Wars Action Figures: Where to Find Them

I am always trying to discover new places to purchase vintage Star Wars action figures at the cheapest possible prices. Without giving away too many of my secrets, here are some suggestions.

1. eBay. Before eBay and the other online auction sites existed, purchasing vintage Star Wars action figures was a much more difficult process. Although there don't seem to be as many outright bargains as they used to be, the sheer number of vintage Star Wars figures for sale makes eBay a very good resource for the collector. A few tips: Don't bid early (as this tends to drive the price up). Ask questions of the seller before you bid. Check that all accessories are included with the Star Wars figure - don't just rely on the pictures, ask the right questions. If you are the winning bidder, make sure that the seller is sending the figure in a way that is acceptable to you. (Pay extra if necessary to ensure that the vintage Star Wars figure reaches you in good condition). Watch out for reproduction weapons! The best advice for eBay (an other auction sites) is this: If the deal looks to good to be true, it probably is.
2. Online stores and shops. These can be a good source of vintage Star Wars action figures. As you would in a bricks-and-mortar store, ask questions of the vendor. These sites are often run by toy enthusiasts (and they're often linked to a bricks-and-mortar store). If you purchase often from one seller, it is possible to build up a good relationship and this can help you to get in quickly when a particularly sought after vinatge Star Wars action figure is in stock.
3. Thrift Stores, Collectables Stores and Antique Stores. I look for vintage Star Wars action figures everywhere. It's surprising where they turn up. Drop in to every one of these stores that you come across. You might find absolutely nothing in thirty visits, and then hit the jackpot the next time you step in. Make friends with the staff and leave your telephone number. My local stores phone me when they've got a new supply of action figures in.
4. Garage Sales. These can be a great source of vintage Star Wars figures. Work out a route for your local area and try to hit as many sales as you can in one day. A good tip is to look out for other collectable toys at the same time as looking for Star Wars figures. These can be sold on eBay or traded with your local collectable toy store, and the profits can be used to buy vintage Star Wars figures. Make sure you rummage in the boxes under the tables, as these are often overlooked by the casual shopper.
5. Toy Fairs and Specialist Star Wars Sales. These are worth checking out if you've got a specific figure you want to purchase. Expect to pay high prices, because the sellers will know exactly what they've got and what it's worth. These are good places for learning about the hobby and building up some contacts within the vintage Star Wars action figure world.
6. Local auctions. I've managed to buy massive quantities of vintage Star Wars figures from local auction houses. Often I've had to buy other items as well in the same lot, but this is not a great problem. Again, bid late to prevent driving up the price.
7. School sales. Another good place to find Star Wars action figures. They are worth checking out if you get a chance.
8. Classified Ads. I've had limited success at responding to advertisements placed by sellers - usually the condition of the action figures is very poor and the price is too high. I've had more joy when posting a 'Star Wars Figures Wanted' advert.
9. Friends and Family (and their Friends and Family). Let your social network know about your hobby. It's surprising how many people have vintage Star Wars figures stashed in their cellars, or attics or sheds that they are willing to part with for a bit of cash.
10. Estate sales. Another good source of Star Wars figures.

Star Wars Vintage action figures can be found almost anywhere. The more you look, the more you will find. And the more creative you can be in the places in which you look, the better your chnaces that another collector hasn't got there first. There are a lot of great vintage Star Wars figures still out there; it's just a matter of tracking them down.