There's no blanket statement because it all depends on what you think it's worth. I think most CARS collectors agree they collect the diecast because of the quality of the sculpts – that you're not just collecting it because "they have to," or just for the sake of completing a set. I think 99% of CARs collector collect because they want to … and there are many strategies for collecting – it all depends on you. They are valid if that's the way you want to go. The nice thing is that this is definitely not a fad line like Beanie Babies where you can't give it away – if you look through ebay or amazon, you'll notice there are few CARs that sell below retail even for the most common CARS.

keeping it in package retains its highest value – whether it's $5 or $50 … as the next buyer wants to decide to open it or not … as for packaging, there are virtually no minty mint cards since they've always had rounded corners but the general rule of thumb might be the two-feet rule. If you can't see any obvious damage holding it in your hand, it's pretty much ok. Most cards will have some soft-ish corners but as long as it's not creased – minimal shelf -packing rub on the plastic is acceptable as long as it's not too obvious. Since most cars can be purchased without price stickers, any downgrades it slightly. Price sticker on the plastic bubble is no biggie as goo-gone makes it gone. And of course – any obvious marks or missing front artwork … most cards also have firm "dent" marks as mattel's plant presses the production date on the card after everything is packed and sealed so most have some press dents.

You may or may not want to read this … as it might scare you off. Good luck!

http://www.takefiveaday.com/20…..s-diecast/