Will Your Labubu Lose Value? A Realistic Market Analysis

That's the critical question every collector and investor is asking. The direct answer is: Yes, many will, but not all. The market is sharply dividing into winners and losers. The value of a Labubu is not universal; it's entirely dependent on its rarity and desirability.

To put it simply, the market follows an iron-clad rule: value is inversely related to supply. Common, mass-produced versions are already seeing prices fall and will likely become less valuable over time. In contrast, the hidden chase pieces from a series or limited editions can generally hold their value well for 1-3 years. As for archived or permanently retired figures, their premiums can be astronomical, often 5 to 10 times the original price, which is quite common.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of which figures are at risk and how to assess your own collection.

How to Tell if YOUR Labubu Will Lose Value

The simplest method is to check the secondary market. Use platforms like eBay, Mercari, or dedicated collector groups to see the current selling price for your specific figure.

• If the price is stable but close to or lower thanwhat you paid: This is a clear sign that the figure is well-supplied and likely to depreciate. It's probably a common, high-production-run piece.

• If the price is slightly higherthan what you paid: Don't celebrate too soon. For common figures, this could be a temporary spike. The price may drop quickly in the coming months as new series are released and hype shifts. For non-limited editions, preserve value is difficult.

The most significant risk factor is over-supply. Always be aware that Pop Mart can adjust production, potentially re-releasing or restocking a figure, which would directly impact its market price.

Which Labubu Figures Are MOST Likely to Lose Value? (High Risk)

• Common, High-Production "Regular" Figures: These are the backbone of any series and are produced in the largest quantities. Their value is the most vulnerable to saturation and fading hype.

• Less Popular Collaborations or Designs: Not every release is a hit. Figures that didn't resonate with the audience will struggle to hold value.

• The "Mid-Tier" Figures: These are somewhat rare but not iconic. They lack the massive demand of a grail and are often the first to be sold off when a collector needs cash.

Which Labubu Figures Are LEAST Likely to Lose Value? (More Resilient)

If you want to participate in the "investment" side of this hobby, it's best to focus on pieces with inherent scarcity.

• The Iconic "Grails" (Hidden): Hidden chase figures from a series, such as Skull Plan or Yukis, are the cornerstone of a collection's value.

• Large-Scale Limited Editions: Figures like Big Labubu (the 38cm vinyl series) have low production numbers from the start.

• Artist-Specific Limited Runs: Pieces from lines like Mokoko or Zimomo often have high desirability and limited availability.

• Permanently Retired/Archived Figures: Once a figure is officially announced as archived, its supply is fixed, often leading to significant price appreciation.

The Most Likely Scenario: A Market Correction

The Labubu market isn't likely to crash entirely but is headed for a correction. Prices for common and mid-tier figures will stagnate or decline, while the high-end grail market may see volatility but will remain well above retail due to fundamental scarcity.

Final Verdict

The statement that "common Labubus are decreasing in value" is accurate. The market is maturing, and it's no longer a rising tide that lifts all boats.

• For the enjoyment-focused collector: Buy what you love. The pleasure of ownership is your primary return.

• For the value-focused participant: The game has changed. It's now about targeting true scarcity. Stick to the limited editions, chase pieces, and large-scale figures, always keep a close eye on secondary market prices, and understand that this remains a high-risk, speculative hobby.

Disclaimer: This is not financial advice. The collectibles market is volatile. Always do your own research and only spend what you can afford to lose.