1. Check the Seller's Feedback

Every eBay member has a feedback profile. When looking at an auction page, you'll notice a positive feedback percentage below the seller's screen name. It would be wise to buy from sellers with at least 98% positive feedback. Ideally, 99% or 100% positive feedback would be safer. Don't forget to read the feedback comments in the seller's profile. Reading comments from other buyers will give you a better idea of the seller's credibility.

2. Check the Seller's Location

Buying from sellers in your home country is not only cheaper, but safer as well. Shipping will be cheaper from a seller inside your home country, than from someone overseas. Possible customs fees would also be avoided. In addition, many counterfit Sideshow and Bowen products have originated from countries in Asia, such as China/Hong Kong.

3. Use Paypal

PayPal offers up to $2000 in buyer protection. Remember, you have 30 days from the end of the auction to file a claim with PayPal. Don't let a seller try to make excuses as to why a package hasn't been delivered, they may be trying to stall you past the 30 day claim period...It's also wise to use a credit card to fund your PayPal account, so that you have your credit card company to fall back on if PayPal doesn't come through. Most credit card companies are good about reversing fraudulent charges.

FANTASTIC 4 vs DR DOOM STATUE BOOKEND not SIDESHOW RARE    US $360.00

SIDESHOW DR DOOM MARVEL ARCHIVE SET SDCC 2006 EXCLUSIVE    US $145.00

Sideshow Collectibles Dr Doom Premium Format Exclusive    US $1,600.00

Sideshow Grey Hulk Exclusive 14 Scale SUPER LOW 9 179    US $2,999.99

Hulk vs Spider Man Sideshow Grey Green Set 40    US $5,999.99

Buying collectibles on the secondary market should be a fun experience. Don't let the hazards of eBay take away your fun, and your money. Good luck on your next purchase!

One thing to keep in mind is that most PF statues have a Sideshow Exclusive variation with a lower edition size that may include unique costume elements, or alternate heads and/or limbs. In most cases these exclusives will always be more valuable on the secondary market. If you are looking for a particular character's PF statue, but don't want to pay full market price, consider buying the standard edition.

7. Logan

Logan was one of the first Marvel Premium Format statues released by Sideshow Collectibles. This statue is the perfect demonstration of the mixed-media format. The statue has exquisite tailoring, including: blue jeans with belt, cotton undershirt, and a leather jacket. Each element is recreated near flawlessly. Small details are also included, such as Logan's dog tags. This statue pops up on eBay occasionally and usually sells for between $185-$250.

6. The Punisher

The Punisher PF was released in two different variations: standard, and the Sideshow Exclusive "Tim Bradstreet Edition". Each version has the same sculpt and tailoring, except that the skull logo on the Sideshow exclusive is the Tim Bradstreet version. The Punisher PF includes an array of weaponry such as an Uzi, Beretta handgun, and grenades. The costume is well reproduced with full tactical gear such as an assault vest, and kevlar shirt. The Punisher PF shows up on eBay frequently and sells for around $250.

5. Red Skull

The Red Skull Premium Format statue was just released about a week ago, and it is already getting rave reviews. The Red Skull sculpt is spot on, and the tailoring is some of the best to ever come out of Sideshow. Every aspect of Red Skull's Nazi uniform is faithfully reproduced, right down to the medals and Nazi armband. The Red Skull PF Exclusive has a smaller edition size and includes an alternate arm holding the cosmic cube. The Red Skull PF is showing up on eBay quite frequently as it's a new item. It usually sells for around $375-$450.

Emma Frost Sideshow Premium Format Figure Marvel X Men    US $249.99

WOLVERINE PREMIUM FORMAT STATUE SIDESHOW X MEN MARVEL    US $299.99

Marvel Sideshow GREEN GOBLIN Premium Format SOLD OUT    US $899.00

The Thing PF Premium Format statue Sideshow Marvel MIB    US $299.00

Doctor Doom Premium Format Figure Sideshow Marvel    US $960.00

THOR PREMIUM FORMAT EXCLUSIVE STATUE Sideshow Marvel    US $381.00

Sideshow MARVEL THOR PREMIUM FORMAT STATUE    US $449.95

Sideshow Mystique Premium Format Figure Marvel X Men    US $234.99

EMMA FROST Premium Format Figure Sideshow X Men Marvel    US $275.50

Sideshow Mystique Marvel Premium Format Figure SEALED    US $380.00

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4. Spiderman

The Spiderman PF was initally released with little excitement by collectors. Spiderman was never a great canidate for mixed-media treatment, as his costume is only spandex. Regardless, the Spiderman PF is a great sculpt, and a good representation of the character. It's popularity has increased dramatically in the last few months, as has it's value. Numerous alternate editions have come out recently, such as the super limited edition "Negative Zone" Spiderman PF. This edition is limited to only 75 units, and can be found on eBay selling for outrageous prices around $1500. The regular and "classic" Sideshow exclusive Spiderman statues can be bought for between $300 and $900.

3. Captain America

The Captain America Premium Format statue was eagerly anticipated by collectors, and like most PFs, had sold out within minutes on Sideshow's website. Like Spiderman, Captain America has very little mixed media, the only fabric on the piece is his blue pants and undershirt. What was really unique about this statue was the bonus alternate options included with the Sideshow Exclusive version. The Captain America Ex could be changed from the contemporary Captain America with round shield, to the WWII era Captain America just by swapping alternate heads and arms. The Capitain America PF can be found on eBay for between $400-$650.

2. The Incredible Hulk

The Hulk Premium Format statue is a true masterpiece of sculpting. Hulk's unique musculature is amazingly reproduced by the talented Andy Bergholtz. The Hulk PF is not a great representation of mixed media, since the only tailored cloth on his body is his ripped jeans. Nevertheless, Hulk's sheer size and excellent sculpt has made him one of the most sought after Premium Format statues on the secondary market. You can usually find the Hulk PF (both Green and Grey) on eBay for between $500 and $1000.

1. Dr. Doom

The Dr. Doom Premium Format statue is considered by most collectors to be the "holy grail" of Marvel Premium Format statues. Dr. Doom's sculpt is extremely detailed, with his armor accurately reproduced. He wears a green fabric cloak, tunic, and hood, and is also wearing a leather belt and pistol holster. He sits upon his immaculate throne, which is adorned with some of the most detailed, unique sculpting work ever seen on a Sideshow Collectibles piece. The Sideshow Exclusive version also comes with a chalice that sits atop a pedestal. The Dr. Doom Premium Format Statue usually sells on eBay for between $900 and $1500.

Choose your environment wisely.

When deciding where to display your new collectibles, consider the effects your environment will have on their longevity. Keep your collectibles in a consistent, climate controlled room. Don't keep them near a heater or air conditioner as extreme tempature changes could potentially effect the strength of resin/polystone. Keep your collectibles away from windows: sunlight wrecks havok on your collectibles' paint jobs and/or fabrics.

Surround your collectibles.

If possible, keep your collectibles in an enclosure, such as a display case or cabinet. This will protect your statues and busts from collecting dust, which over time will build up and become more difficult to clean if they are not maintained regularly.

Many collectors use glass display cabinets to showcase their busts and statues. Ikea makes a wonderful glass display case called the "Detolf". It is available at most Ikea stores for about $60. If you decide to use a Detolf cabinet, be aware that the maximum suggested weight load is around 13 pounds. Some Marvel Premium Format statues weigh more than that, so be careful. If you don't live near an Ikea store, you might find a Detolf in your area via Craigslist.

Another big benefit of using display cabinets is the option of using spotlights to help show off your collection. Many cabinets (such as the Detolf) offer the option of led lighting.

Clean your collectibles weekly.

If you keep your collectibles in the open air, it would be wise to clean your collection at least once a week. We recommend using a camera lens brush, due to it's softness. Gently brush dust and other particles off your statues and busts, being mindful of finely detailed features such as sculpted arms, legs, and accessories. Compressed air also works well for cleaning collectibles.

If your collectible breaks...

If one of your busts or statues happens to break, it can usually be fixed as long as the break is not too severe. You can fix it yourself using clear super glue, and soft brushes and paint for touching up the appearance. You can also usually find someone on many collector's message boards who may do it for a fee.

If you follow the above suggestions, not only will your collection look great, it will be well protected for many years to come!