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A Guide To Diecast Cars: Determining Value and Tips

Introduction to Diecast Cars

Diecast cars are the epitome of nostalgia. Many adults can look back at their childhood fondly and remember their budding collection of diecast cars. For some people, diecast cars are a hobby that stays in childhood. Still, for car enthusiasts and collectors alike, it’s a heartwarming pastime full of options and an exciting look at automotive history. 

Diecast cars surged in popularity at the turn of the 20th century. Toy manufacturers started by producing miniature models of the Model T and MG sports cars. As technological advances expanded the imagination’s limits in the 1930s, diecast cars evolved into highly realistic, miniature versions of the life-sized vehicle. 

While diecast cars were most popular during the 1960s, the hobby is still alive and well today. Auction houses, like ours, conduct diecast model car appraisals regularly. At Bodnar’s Auction, we are happy to bridge the gap between experienced and knowledgeable collectors with interested hobbyists looking to build a new collection and proud to offer one of the largest toy auctions in New Jersey!

How Is the Value of Diecast Model Cars Determined? 

Determining the value of diecast cars is based on several factors. Often people come into our showroom or enter our virtual auction setting and their first question is: What is the value of my diecast cars? 

Some diecast car models are worth far more than others. Rarity and condition play a role in determining the valuation of your diecast car. Still, there are also various other factors that can determine the fair market value of your model cars in today’s auction setting.

Five main factors help appraisers determine the estimated auction value of your diecast car. They are:

  • Size: Larger model cars tend to have a higher value than smaller diecast cars, but they can be more challenging to sell due to their space requirements. 
  • Manufacturer: In general, diecast cars manufactured in the early 1900s are the most sought after. More recent manufacturers have come under fire for creating low-quality replicas. 
  • Availability/rarity: Limited edition diecast cars and other rare models will also have a higher valuation than easier to find models. 
  • Trends: Sometimes, a specific trend increases the value of a particular diecast car model. Certain model cars can increase in value after a celebrity driver has retired or won a championship.
  • Condition: One of the most important factors to determining the value of a diecast car is its condition. Diecast cars can be rated Mint condition, which means there are no signs of wear or damaged pieces. Mint in Box (MIB) and Mint on Mint Card (MOMC) means the car is still in its original box and also has no signs of wear, damage, or missing pieces. If a diecast car is in “Other” condition, it likely has some form of damage such as chipped paint, damaged components, or missing pieces. 

Tips for Maintaining the Value of Your Diecast Car Collection

Because the condition has such a strong bearing on the potential value of diecast cars, it’s always recommended that collectors take excellent care of their collectibles. You can take care of your diecast car collection with the following tips:

  • Direct sunlight will cause fading and damage to your car’s finish, so it’s essential to store them in a location where the UV light is limited. Basements, closets, and attics are good places to store your items. 
  • Like direct sunlight, temperature fluctuations and humidity can age your diecast cars and even warp the model vehicle’s body. 
  • Whenever applicable, it’s a good idea to utilize glass and plastic display cases. 
  • Purchase an insurance plan and consult a specialist insurance broker for your high-value collectibles. 

For more information about diecast cars and our collections coming up for auction, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team today! 

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I’m happy with everything Joe and Janet did, you were both informative and were very helpful with the questions I had being that I was never in that position before. Janet’s response time was also positive for me. It was interesting to watch the auction live. I thought you did an amazing job and had a nice banter back and forth. You seem to be a good team! Thank you for all your hard work and making this difficult time of letting  my deceased father’s collectibles go an easy experience.

Kim F.

I would like to thank you for including me in your online sale.
Everything from none contact drop off, to none contact pick up, was handled with the outmost professionalism.
I appreciated your clear communication after the sale with a printout and an explanation of when I’ll receive my check.
Overall I was very please with the prices my jewelry achieved, some lot  went for less then I expected, others went for more, it’s all in the average.

Thank you very much

Michal F.

I come to your auctions often. You and your staff are great. Your change to an online auction on 4/9 is just another testament to your fine character and being thoughtful of others. The items are great no doubt, but a big reason I keep coming back is due to the culture you have created. Thank you. Art

Art F.

Thank You Joe! We Had a Very Good Experience With Your Team! 8/15/19

Carry G.

Sold in July 18, 2019 sale and Overall Pleased!

Frank D.

I received the proceeds from the Auction and wanted to again thank you and your team.  Everything went so smoothly and you all did such a great job from start to finish.This was an overwhelming experience for me and you made everything so easy.  I have been recommending you to everyone!

Thank you again for helping me; your kindness was very much appreciated.

Debbie B

Five Stars!

Samuel P.

Great deals and great company

Armand P.

Love this service! Great deals if you know what to look for!

Anthony D.

As I said once before, Wonderful People Work here. Thanks too all for your constant help. One Huge Look Auction!

Michael L.

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