A collection of articles for collectors of action figures, from caring for collectibles to where to get the best deals and much more.

A History of Action Figures. The term "action figure" was first used by Hasbro in 1964, to market their G.I. Joe figure to boys who wouldnt play with dolls. G.I. Joe was initially a military-themed 11.5-inch action figure proposed by marketing and toy idea-man Stan Weston.

Learn how action figures are created. Aluminum wire, modeling clay, and various sculpting tools are used to create the prototype.

There are two types of collectors: The ones who collect for a hobby: this type of collector loves his action figures, and collect only for fun and enjoyment. And the ones who collect for profit: this type buy toys and resell in the future. Collecting is a "business".

It all started in 1963 when Stan Weston, a toy creator and licensing agent, saw the success of the Barbie doll for girls. He came up with a concept that could be marketed to boys; a Barbie-like line with a military theme. Don Levine, creative director of Hasbro at that time, was pitched the idea and he approved it. Mr. Levine also came up with the name of the line, inspired by the 1945 movie "The Story of G.I. Joe".

At the beginning of your action figure collection if you are collecting just for fun it doesnt really matter where you buy. But as your collection increases you might start looking for rare and expensive toys. Follow these tips and you will not waste your money.