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The 10 Best Funko Pop Figures to Collect in 2027

CollectiblesThe 10 Best Funko Pop Figures to Collect in 2027
📖 3,084 words🗓️ Published Aug 2, 2026
Direct Answer

The 10 best funko pop figures to collect are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Alex DeLarge SDCC Exclusive

The 10 Best Funko Pop Figures to Collect in 2027 — figure 1

This ranks first because it is the defining Funko grail, combining a documented $60,000 peak sale with a current estimated value of $25,000–$26,000. Its SDCC exclusivity and tiny production numbers tie it to Kubrick's cult film, giving it genuine pop-culture prestige. The standard and Chase variants add collecting depth, and it regularly trades, so price discovery is real. It is the standout trophy of the entire Funko collecting hobby.

This is for the high-end grail collector who wants a blue-chip vinyl asset with a real auction track record. It trades away affordability and carries a serious five-figure entry commitment. Compared to the Freddy Funko Metallic Ghost Rider below, Alex DeLarge offers a larger population and more frequent sales, making it more attainable despite its high price. Custom fakes and repaints exist, so authentication is essential.

2. Freddy Funko Metallic Ghost Rider

The 10 Best Funko Pop Figures to Collect in 2027 — figure 2

This ranks second because it is the most expensive Pop that regularly trades, with listings reaching $35,000 and only 12 pieces produced for the 2013 SDCC Fundays. Its tiny edition size places it at the absolute pinnacle of the coveted Freddy Funko mascot line. The combination of glow-in-the-dark and metallic finishes makes it the most prized variant among collectors. It is a near-impossible acquisition due to its 12-piece population.

This is for the Freddy Funko and glow-in-the-dark specialist who prioritizes extreme scarcity above all else. It trades away liquidity, as the 12-piece population means it almost never surfaces on the market. Compared to Alex DeLarge, this figure has a higher potential value but is far harder to source and verify. Glow figures are sensitive to light and box wear, so careful storage is critical to maintaining value.

3. Willy Wonka Golden Ticket 2-Pack

The 10 Best Funko Pop Figures to Collect in 2027 — figure 3

This ranks third because it is the rarest Funko release ever, with only 10 sets created for the 2016 SDCC Fundays event. Its estimated value of $71,000–$100,000 places it well above the rest of the market on pure scarcity. It is the single hardest Funko grail to acquire and one of the few that can approach six figures. The iconic Golden Ticket concept and packaging make it a legendary white whale.

This is for the ultra-rarity completist who seeks the ultimate trophy that almost never surfaces. It trades away practicality, as the 10-piece population means values are estimate-driven given how rarely it sells. Compared to the Freddy Funko Metallic Ghost Rider, this 2-pack has a higher ceiling but even lower liquidity. Its scarcity makes authentication nearly impossible to verify through comps, so provenance is paramount.

4. Boo Berry Glow SDCC

The 10 Best Funko Pop Figures to Collect in 2027 — figure 4

This ranks fourth because it is one of Funko's earliest and rarest grails, with just 24 copies released for the 2011 SDCC. A documented sale of $32,000 in October 2023 cements its place near the top of the market. As an early-era ad-icon Pop tied to the General Mills monster-cereal line, it carries both nostalgia and extreme scarcity. Its glow variant is prized by serious collectors for its distinctive display.

This is for the cereal-mascot and early-Pop collector who values nostalgia alongside rarity. It trades away modern franchise heat, relying instead on ad-icon nostalgia that appeals to a narrower buyer pool. Compared to the Willy Wonka 2-Pack, Boo Berry has a larger 24-piece population but still commands a high price. Glow vinyl is sensitive to display and box condition, so mint packaging is essential for value.

5. Count Chocula Freddy Funko Glow

The 10 Best Funko Pop Figures to Collect in 2027 — figure 5

This ranks fifth because it is a high-tier cereal-monster grail valued around $10,000, offering strong value below the absolute peak. Part of the prized Freddy Funko mascot series, it ties to the same General Mills nostalgia as Boo Berry. Limited SDCC production and glow styling keep it firmly in grail territory for collectors. It provides a more accessible entry into the monster-cereal and Freddy Funko lines.

This is for the monster-cereal and Freddy collector who wants a genuine grail without the five-figure commitment of the top picks. It trades away the extreme scarcity of Boo Berry, with a larger population that keeps its value lower. Compared to Boo Berry, Count Chocula offers a more attainable price point but less upside potential. Glow figures demand careful storage to hold value, and authentication of the Freddy Funko line is critical.

6. Metallic Stan Lee Signed SDCC

The 10 Best Funko Pop Figures to Collect in 2027 — figure 6

This ranks sixth because a verified-signed Metallic Stan Lee Pop is valued around $6,100, with the autograph adding thousands over the unsigned figure. Stan Lee Pops have appreciated steadily since his passing in 2018, making this a blue-chip collectible. The metallic SDCC exclusive is the most coveted variant, and a credible signature adds personal comics history. It is a genuine asset for Marvel collectors with a broad buyer pool.

This is for the Marvel and autograph collector who values provenance and personal connection to comics history. It trades away the extreme scarcity of the top grails, relying instead on the signature premium and franchise heat. Compared to Count Chocula, this figure has a lower base value but benefits from the massive Marvel fan base. Forged signatures are common, so authentication with a credible COA is essential to protect value.

7. Holographic Darth Maul SDCC

This ranks seventh because it is the rarest Pop in the Star Wars line, originally released in 2012 at SDCC and valued around $6,660. Its translucent holographic finish and limited convention run make it the standout grail for Star Wars Funko collectors. The franchise's enormous and durable fan base sustains strong demand for this early exclusive. Its 2012 SDCC pedigree adds historical significance to the Star Wars line.

This is for the Star Wars Funko collector who wants the rarest figure in the franchise's line. It trades away the autograph premium of Stan Lee, relying instead on franchise heat and scarcity. Compared to Metallic Stan Lee, Darth Maul has a higher value but a narrower buyer pool focused on Star Wars. Translucent figures show flaws and wear easily, so mint condition is critical. Many Star Wars variants can confuse buyers, so careful identification is necessary.

8. SDCC Boba Fett Blue Variant

This ranks eighth because it is valued around $5,180, having sold for $6,000 a few years ago, making it a reliable Star Wars grail. As one of the earliest and rarest Star Wars Funko exclusives, it pairs the franchise's most popular bounty hunter with a hard-to-find convention release. Boba Fett's enduring popularity gives this Pop reliable demand. It sits as a natural companion grail to the Holographic Darth Maul for Star Wars collectors.

This is for the Boba Fett and Star Wars completist who wants a rare convention exclusive without the top-tier price. It trades away the holographic finish of Darth Maul, offering a more traditional figure with strong character appeal. Compared to Holographic Darth Maul, this variant has a lower value but benefits from Boba Fett's broader popularity. Value has eased from its earlier peak, so buyers should expect stable rather than explosive growth. Multiple Boba Fett variants require careful identification.

9. Headless Ned Stark SDCC

This ranks ninth because it is the signature Game of Thrones grail, released as a 2013 SDCC exclusive limited to 1,008 pieces. It trades between $2,000 and $3,500, making it an accessible grail price for serious collectors. The figure captures a defining Game of Thrones moment in a darkly comic design. Its modest edition size keeps it genuinely scarce within the franchise line.

This is for the Game of Thrones collector who wants an iconic moment from the series at an attainable price. It trades away the extreme scarcity of the top grails, with a larger 1,008-piece edition size capping upside. Compared to SDCC Boba Fett, this figure has a lower value but offers a unique and memorable design. GoT collector demand has softened since the show ended, so growth potential is limited. Strong franchise nostalgia sustains its current value.

10. Planet Arlia Vegeta Exclusive

This ranks tenth because it is the best value grail on this list, a 2014 NYCC and Toy Tokyo exclusive valued around $3,120. It gives collectors a real, sought-after rarity at a low-four-figure entry, making it the smartest way into the grail tier. Tied to Dragon Ball Z, one of anime's most popular franchises, it benefits from a massive and growing global fan base. Its limited production and in-demand status support its price.

This is for the value collector who wants a genuine grail without spending five figures. It trades away the prestige of the top picks, offering instead a more accessible entry into rare Funko collecting. Compared to Headless Ned Stark, this figure has a higher value and benefits from the stronger, growing anime-collector demand. Anime-Pop pricing can swing with franchise trends, so timing matters. Custom and bootleg versions exist, so verifying authenticity is essential.

How we ranked these

We measured six weighted criteria: realized sale prices and market value (30%), production scarcity (25%), demand depth and franchise heat (15%), liquidity and resale ease (15%), condition/box sensitivity and authentication risk (10%), and signature/provenance premium (5%). Data came from hobbyDB/Pop Price Guide, documented eBay-sold comps, and convention-exclusive records, blended into a single ranking from the priciest grails to an attainable exclusive.

We deliberately ignored common shelf Pops, vaulted figures with large print runs, and hype-driven trends without verifiable sales. We also excluded unsigned variants where a signature was the main value driver, and we did not consider speculative future appreciation. The focus stayed on real, named exclusives with documented values and genuine scarcity, avoiding any figure whose price could not be backed by concrete auction or price-guide evidence.

What to look for

What actually matters is edition size, box condition, and authentication. A 10-piece or 24-piece run is a different asset than a 1,008-piece exclusive. A mint, crease-free box can double value versus a damaged one, and out-of-box figures sell for a fraction. Verify the SDCC sticker, check paint and seams against references, and demand a COA for signatures.

Liquidity also matters—figures like Alex DeLarge trade regularly, while ultra-rarities like the Golden Ticket 2-Pack rarely surface.

The mistake most buyers make is chasing vaulted commons or ignoring condition. Many collectors buy a wall of ordinary Pops that hold little value, or pay grail money for a custom repaint or a transplanted sticker. Another error is skipping authentication for signed pieces—forged Stan Lee signatures are common. Focus on one authenticated, mint-box grail with a verifiable edition size rather than volume, and always cross-check comps on hobbyDB before spending five figures.

Related questions

What is the most valuable Funko Pop ever made?

The Willy Wonka & Oompa Loompa Golden Ticket 2-Pack, with only 10 sets made for 2016 SDCC Fundays, is the rarest and most valuable, estimated at $71,000–$100,000. Among Pops that trade more regularly, Alex DeLarge from A Clockwork Orange leads at roughly $25,000–$26,000, with a documented $60,000 peak sale.

How does the Planet Arlia Vegeta compare to other Dragon Ball Z Pops?

Planet Arlia Vegeta is the rarest and most valuable Dragon Ball Z Pop, valued around $3,120. It was a 2014 NYCC/Toy Tokyo exclusive with limited production, and it benefits from the franchise's massive global fan base. Other DBZ Pops are far more common and worth significantly less, making Vegeta the line's true grail.

What makes the Freddy Funko Metallic Ghost Rider so expensive?

Only 12 pieces were produced for the 2013 SDCC Fundays, making it one of the rarest Funko releases ever. Its glow-in-the-dark metallic finish and the cult status of the Freddy Funko mascot line drive listings up to $35,000. The tiny population and high demand from Freddy specialists keep it at the top of the market.

Why is the Holographic Darth Maul the rarest Star Wars Pop?

Released as a 2012 SDCC exclusive, it has a distinctive translucent holographic finish and a very limited convention run. Valued around $6,660, it is the rarest Star Wars Pop, and the franchise's enormous fan base sustains strong demand. Its early pedigree and unique look make it the standout grail for Star Wars collectors.

How does the Headless Ned Stark Pop hold its value?

With only 1,008 pieces from the 2013 SDCC, it trades between $2,000 and $3,500. It captures a defining Game of Thrones moment, and its modest edition size keeps it genuinely scarce. While GoT demand has softened since the show ended, it remains the most iconic and collectible Pop in the line at an accessible grail price.

What is the best Funko Pop for a Marvel collector?

A signed Metallic Stan Lee SDCC Pop is a top choice, valued around $6,100 with authentication. The metallic variant is the most coveted, and Stan Lee Pops have appreciated since his passing. For a lower price, consider other early Marvel exclusives, but the signed metallic Stan Lee offers both personal history and blue-chip collectible status.

How do I verify the authenticity of a rare Funko Pop?

Check the convention sticker design, placement, and year against verified examples on hobbyDB. Inspect paint application, vinyl seams, and stamp details for inconsistencies. For signed Pops, demand a certificate of authenticity from a reputable source. Be wary of customs and repaints, which are common for high-value figures like Alex DeLarge and Planet Arlia Vegeta.

What is the difference between a Chase and a regular Funko Pop?

A Chase is a limited variant with different paint, glow, or metallic finish, typically found in one out of every six boxes. Chases are rarer and often worth more, like the Alex DeLarge Chase at $26,060 versus the standard at $25,470. However, not all Chases are valuable—only those from popular lines with low production runs command premiums.

FAQ

What is the most valuable Funko Pop in 2027?

On pure scarcity, the Willy Wonka & Oompa Loompa Golden Ticket 2-Pack tops out at $71,000–$100,000 with only 10 sets made. Among Pops that trade more regularly, Alex DeLarge leads at roughly $25,000–$26,000, with a documented $60,000 peak sale.

Are Funko Pops a good investment?

Only the genuine grails—early SDCC exclusives, tiny Freddy Funko runs, and signed pieces—hold real value, and even those are volatile and trend-driven. The vast majority of Pops are common and worth little. Treat the grails as condition-sensitive collectibles, not guaranteed appreciation.

What is the best value collectible Funko Pop?

Planet Arlia Vegeta (Dragon Ball Z), a 2014 NYCC/Toy Tokyo exclusive valued around $3,120, is the best value. It offers a genuinely scarce, in-demand grail at a low-four-figure entry, unlike five-figure Pops. Its growing anime-collector demand supports the price, making it a smart entry into the grail tier.

How do I tell if a rare Funko Pop is real?

Verify the convention sticker, check edition size, inspect paint and vinyl seams against genuine references on hobbyDB, and demand a COA for any signature. Customs, repaints, and transplanted stickers are the most common fakes. Match sticker design, placement, and year against verified examples before paying grail money.

Does the box condition really matter?

Enormously. A mint, crease-free box can double the value versus a damaged one, and out-of-box figures sell for a fraction of mint-in-box examples. Box protectors are standard practice for serious collectors. A creased box or out-of-box figure can cut value by half or more, so condition is everything.

Where do collectors buy and sell rare Funko Pops?

Values are tracked on hobbyDB/Pop Price Guide, and grails trade on eBay, dedicated Funko marketplaces, and at convention exclusives. Always cross-check comps before buying at grail prices. For signed pieces, buy from reputable sources with authentication. Avoid private sales without verifiable provenance.

What is the rarest Funko Pop ever released?

The Willy Wonka & Oompa Loompa Golden Ticket 2-Pack, with only 10 sets made for the 2016 SDCC Fundays, is the rarest. Its estimated value of $71,000–$100,000 places it above all others on pure scarcity. It is the single hardest Funko grail to acquire, approaching six figures.

How does the SDCC Boba Fett Blue variant compare to other Star Wars Pops?

Valued around $5,180, it is one of the earliest and rarest Star Wars Funko exclusives. It pairs the franchise's most popular bounty hunter with a hard-to-find convention release, giving it reliable demand. It sits as a natural companion grail to the Holographic Darth Maul, though its value has eased from a $6,000 peak.

What should I look for when buying a signed Funko Pop?

Demand a certificate of authenticity from a reputable source, and verify the signature against known examples. Forged signatures are common, especially for Stan Lee. The signature adds thousands only if credible, so buy from established dealers or auction houses. Also check the figure's condition and box, as those affect value independently.

Why is the Count Chocula Freddy Funko valued at $10,000?

It is a glow-in-the-dark Freddy Funko exclusive from SDCC, part of the prized mascot line. Tied to General Mills cereal nostalgia, it appeals to both Freddy specialists and monster-cereal collectors. Limited production and glow styling keep it in grail territory, though it sits below the very top Pops like the Golden Ticket 2-Pack.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best funko pop figures to collect"] S --> R0["1. Alex DeLarge SDCC Exclusive"] S --> R1["2. Freddy Funko Metallic Ghost Rider"] S --> R2["3. Willy Wonka Golden Ticket 2-Pack"] S --> R3["4. Boo Berry Glow SDCC"] S --> R4["5. Count Chocula Freddy Funko Glow"]
flowchart LR A["Choosing funko pop figures to collect"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["Alex DeLarge SDCC Exclusive"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["Boo Berry Glow SDCC"] D -->|"No"| F["Planet Arlia Vegeta Exclusive"]

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