Collectible Board Games

Collecting board games of TV, comic book or movie characters is growing in popularity. Although values are rising, the slow economy has slowed down collectors a bit.

The ones that collectors are still willing to pay a lot for are the early 1930-60s games.

A Buck Rogers 1934 game in mint condition is valued about $3,500, but you may not get that amount right now.

Right now, is the time to buy. Get these items low and in 10 years their value will skyrocket.

Keep your eyes open for Charlie Chan: Detective Mystery Game valued around $300; The Green Hornet Secret Switch game, 1966 worth about $700; Wllery Queen: Case of the Elusive Assassin valued about $300. Gunsmoke, 1958 is worth around $100/

The number one key is condition. Value decreases dramatically based on broken edges, taped edges or repainted boxes. Pen marks, missing pieces and faded boxes all decrease the value.

I would not spend more than $10 when purchasing a vintage board game unless it is mint and unopened. If pieces are missing, it's another drawback.

But don't be discouraged. There are a lot of games in excellent condition if you just keep looking.

Batman, Hogan Heroes and Captain America all from 1966 can sell up to $150. These were more common and are available at tag sales.

A 1967 Star trek game still goes for about $150 and a 1967 Wonder Woman is worth a bit more.

I recently found a 1940 The Shadow Board game at sale for $5. In mint condition it would have sold for about $700. This one was used, had ripped edges and one missing piece and brought about $40.

It still was a fun game to find and valuable to someone. Early monopoly games bring $50-$500 depending on condition. This is not a character board game, but still a very popular one.

Another non-character board game to purchase are old Ouija boards. I saw one from the 1800s go for over $600 at auction.

If you are just starting out, go to a book store and buy a value and guide book. Always be aware that book values are just that, book values. They are constantly changing and games are only worth what someone will pay for it.

But don't let values stop you from collecting. If you enjoy it and the item is reasonably priced, grab it now and worry about selling it later.