Post
by Jesse James » Mon Jan 07, 2008 9:29 pm
The XD Paras (US and German) were not really "rare" upon release by any means... Most Toys R Us stores had plenty to go around, and this was an easily found series of figures back at the time. The problem with them is, they're gone, and the hobby's grown...
They also were the first steps forward by 21st to improve articulation/overall quality. The sculpts, the paintjobs, and the articulation was outstanding at the time. And the little things like removable helmets really improved figure quality.
"Rare", is a very subjective term then... These, being figures not in production any longer, and coupled with an increased general demand in the XD line with popularity growth since these figures were out, are why they're garnering good prices on Ebay...
What I'd suggest is waiting it out, because ultimately 21st HAS the molds to these, and very well may reissue them. They also have the option of putting out more, better versions too... Case-in-point, the 82nd AB figure from the D-Day assortment this past year. I wouldn't doubt we'd see German Para's again at some point in the near future... Too popualr not to see them IMO. Whether they're reissues or not, who knows?
They're definitely worth having, so I think if you can score a set for $7 to $10 (though I wouldn't pay that personally) a piece, go for it... Otherwise, I say bide your time and see what comes down the pike for you.
First series Nam guys were garnering some decent $$$ recently, weren't they? See where those prices go though with new Nam guys coming out... And better ones at that. I bet some who shelled out booku bucks are wishing they had not done so.
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