NASCAR Diecast Collectibles

For NASCAR diecast collectors, the little replicas of their favorite cars aren't toys but serious collector's items. NASCAR diecast cars come in two scale sizes, 1:24 and 1:64.

The 1:24 scale diecast cars are bigger and, naturally, more expensive than the smaller cars. Drivers also have a bearing on the price of a car. A Richard Petty Diecast Victory Lap Platinum Plated 1:24 retails at $200.00. Autographs drive up the price as well. An autographed Martin Truex Jr. NASCAR 2005 ColorChrome Busch Champ car retails at $175.00. And an autographed Dale Earnhardt, Jr. 2008 National Guard Diecast has a retail price tag of $250.00.

Use extra caution when buying autographed merchandise, though. A concerned collector had this to say in an eBay Guide: "For what it is worth, I have been collecting quality rare Dale Earnhardt Sr. authentically signed diecast for over 15 years and value these very rare collectables. It is very difficult to find an authentically signed Dale Earnhardt Sr. diecast. I have noticed the past few years that many eBay sellers have been selling a number of advertised Dale Earnhardt Sr. signed diecast with a certificate of authenticity (worthless document unless it came directly from DEI)." The collector went on to say that many of these autographs were fraudulent and advises buyers to "do your homework" and notes that reputable sellers offer a money-back guarantee.

The 1:64 scale diecast cars are far more affordable than their 1:24 counterparts. The 1:64 scale diecast models are sometimes sold in sets, such as the Hendrick Motorsports Daytona 500 Winners set which features Jeff Gordon's Number 24 car, Jimmie Johnson's Number 48 car, Dale Earnhardt, Jr.'s Number 88 car and a commemorative '08 car in honor of the fiftieth running of the Daytona 500.

The 1:64 scale diecast models also include the popular collectible haulers. The haulers are larger and cost a bit more than the cars, but collectors believe they are well worth the price. The haulers have realistic styling, rearview mirrors, chrome-colored accents, working wheels and trailers with rear-opening doors.

There are 1:8 scale diecast NASCAR replicas, but collectors must consider the models large size and where he/she might display the cars before opting to buy. The 1:8 scale cars are rare and extremely hard to find. Be warned, if or when you do find one, you can count on a hefty price tag. I was unable to find a NASCAR replica, but an Indy car replica of a 1991 McLaren Honda MP4-6, Japanese GP, Title Win, Senna was priced at $5,500.