Two words: Reseller platforms.
Buying old LEGO® is really easy. Find high-quality old LEGO® is difficult. It is also important to discern that old LEGO®, doesn’t necessarily mean retired, investment-quality LEGO®, in the sense that collectors know. All old LEGO® is by nature, retired LEGO®. The two terms have slightly separate definitions with separate meanings.
- Retired LEGO® – LEGO®, usually kept NIB (new in box), and a term that is closely affiliated with LEGO® investing.
- Old LEGO® – any LEGO® from awhile back that is retired, second-hand, or gaining dust in the corner of your attic. This LEGO® is usually greater than 2 years old, at a minimum. It has usually seen some serious building-action.
I cannot say why, but old LEGO® has this (connotation) feeling of, “looking for LEGO® from a long time ago in any condition. I am just trying to have a fun, vintage building experience.“
So, Where Exactly Can You Buy Old LEGO®?
Hands down, my favorite platforms for old LEGO® are Amazon and eBay. I have had a ton of success buying and selling LEGO® (minifigures and sets) on these e-commerce websites. Both eBay and Amazon have a large customer service base that enhances both the buyer and seller’s protection on their respective interfaces. I prefer Amazon for higher-quality old LEGO®, but prefer eBay if I am looking for bundles of old LEGO® sold by the lot. Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong.
Amazon – This website is great for NIB (new in box) sets of old LEGO®.
eBay – Here, old LEGO® minifigures dominate LEGO® lots. Sometimes, you get rare finds in the mix.
What To Be Aware Of When Purchasing
Listen, old LEGO® is in fact, old. It will have scratches, cracks, and marks – especially, if it is secondhand. On eBay, if you buy LEGO® lots, expect to see some wear and tear on minifigures and receive a few brittle bricks. It is the common occurence of LEGO®. LEGO® is made from a highly durable plastic (ABS), but decades of play takes it toll on a toy. However, NIB LEGO® usually will remain in fantastic condition for decades. Always feel free to reach out to the seller to ask.
Is There A Market For Old LEGO® Sets?
100% yes. LEGO® has a higher appreciation rate than gold. There will always be a market for old LEGO®. It is a universal toy that spans interest and generations. Whether your bricks are old, broken, new, or used used, someone will want to buy it!
What Can You Do With Old LEGO®?
You can enjoy a vintage building session, or you can sell it on third-party platforms. If you are feeling especially in the giving-spirit, donate them to a local charity, or even pass them down to a neighbor or loved-one. LEGO® will always be LEGO®. The power of the colorful brick is timeless and immortal.
Should You Throw Away Old LEGO®?
From the bottom of my heart, I am begging you, please don’t do that! If you think it is taking up space, please package and box it up and hold on to it forever, resell it, or give it to someone else. Unless LEGO® is exposed to radioactive waste, LEGO® never belongs in the trash. It belongs in a vault with all your memories and valuables.
Break Out Your Box Of Old LEGO® Sets And Start Building
While LEGO® can become old, you can never become old at heart. Break out that old box of LEGO® in the basement or attic, and get building with a family member, friend, or neighbor. Remember to enjoy the build process and play well!
