Whether you’re a newcomer to the world of anime collectibles or a seasoned enthusiast with glass cabinets full of rare gems, one question keeps coming up: what are the most wanted manga figures? With thousands of releases every year, navigating this vibrant world can feel like standing at the edge of a dense and colourful forest, not knowing which path leads to true treasure. In this article, we explore the most coveted manga figurines those that fans dream about, resellers chase, and collectors invest in. From highly detailed statues to nostalgic limited editions, you’ll learn what makes a figure truly desirable and how to spot the next big thing. Ready to dive in?
What makes a manga figurine truly valuable?
The value of a manga figurine isn’t just about its price tag it’s about demand, rarity, craftsmanship, and emotional connection. Collectors often pursue pieces that are either limited in production, discontinued, or part of a premium line like Good Smile Company’s POP UP PARADE or Max Factory’s Figma series. These brands are known for their exceptional attention to detail and accurate representation of beloved anime characters. One of the key elements that boosts a figurine’s desirability is exclusivity. Figures released only at specific conventions or as part of pre-order-only campaigns often become holy grails among fans. For instance, certain scale figures from popular anime shows are released only once and never reproduced skyrocketing their value after the launch window closes.
Another factor is character popularity. Figures representing icons from hit series like Naruto, One Piece, Attack on Titan, or Demon Slayer tend to sell out quickly. Particularly, Tanjiro Kamado, Levi Ackerman, and Luffy are names that regularly appear in “most wanted” lists. It’s not just the character it’s the version. A casual Levi might be worth £70, but a limited edition Survey Corps version with a dynamic pose could go for £300+ on resale markets. If you’re just starting out, you might wonder how to choose between articulated figures, statues, or animated figurines. For beginners, the animated figurines available online offer a great middle ground between price and quality, often with bold colours and dynamic designs.
Lastly, materials matter. Resin statues are generally heavier, more fragile, and much more detailed ideal for display, not play. PVC figures, by contrast, are lighter and more affordable but can still carry astonishing sculpt detail when coming from trusted brands. The emotional attachment is where value becomes subjective. For some, a £20 figure of Sakura from Cardcaptor is priceless because it reminds them of childhood. For others, investing £400 in a limited edition Akira bike diorama is a statement piece for their collector’s room. In either case, value is both felt and measured.
Top 10 most wanted manga figurines right now
Curiosity about what everyone else is buying isn’t just nosiness it’s strategy. Knowing the most popular anime figures in the UK helps you anticipate price surges and resale value while also getting in early on the next big hype. Here’s a glimpse into the top 10 figurines currently trending among UK collectors and international fans alike:
- Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan) – Final Season Edition
- Tanjiro Kamado with Flame Base (Demon Slayer)
- Gojo Satoru in Hollow Purple Pose (Jujutsu Kaisen)
- Luffy Gear 5 (One Piece)
- Nezuko Kamado Demon Form (Limited Edition)
- Rem in Wedding Dress (Re:Zero)
- Sailor Moon Crystal Eternal Edition
- Ryuk and Light Duo Figure (Death Note)
- Itachi Uchiha Crow Scene Version (Naruto Shippuden)
- Asuka Langley (Neon Genesis Evangelion) Plug Suit Version
These pieces frequently sell out within days of release and appear immediately on reseller platforms at double the price. Whether it’s due to intricate detail, nostalgic attachment, or limited supply, these are figurines to watch and to grab while you can. The hype around limited edition anime figures to collect shows no sign of slowing down. Marketplaces and niche online shops like Anime Figures Shop are often the first to stock them, so keeping a regular eye out can save you from painful resale markups.
How to identify a fake from a real anime figure
Being duped by a counterfeit figure is the worst nightmare for any collector. It’s like biting into a beautiful cake only to realise it’s made of foam. With the popularity of anime growing rapidly, fake anime figurines have flooded the market, especially in online auctions or suspiciously cheap listings. Spotting a fake begins with the packaging. Authentic figures will always come in branded, well-designed boxes with serial codes, licensing info, and often a holographic sticker. Bootlegs typically have fuzzy printing, typos, or missing elements altogether. If you’re buying online and the seller won’t provide detailed images of the box red flag.
Buy rare manga figures online only from trusted retailers. Websites that offer transparency about stock origin, return policies, and official distributor logos are your safest bet. Another tell-tale sign is the paint job. Look closely at the face, eyes, and fine details like buttons or weapons. Genuine figures have crisp paintwork; bootlegs often feature smeared lines, uneven shading, and even mismatched parts. Sculpting differences can also reveal a fake poorly defined hair strands, awkward hand positions, or rigid poses are common. Finally, price is usually the biggest giveaway. If a figure that usually sells for £120 is listed at £25, you’re likely not holding a bargain you’re holding disappointment.
Where to find authentic manga figurines in the UK
Finding authentic manga figurines in the UK doesn’t have to be a hunt through dark corners of the internet. The key is knowing which retailers are reliable and which ones are just out for quick cash. The rise in demand has led to a boom in local hobby shops, online speciality retailers, and even mainstream outlets dabbling in anime merchandise. The best place to begin is with specialist retailers like Anime Figures Shop, which provide licensed goods with verified authenticity. Their selection often includes Japanese action figures from popular anime, hand-painted anime collectibles, and exclusive pre-orders for upcoming releases.
Convention events are another goldmine. London Comic Con, Hyper Japan, and regional anime expos often have vendor halls filled with reputable sellers. You not only get the benefit of seeing the figure up close, but you also connect with fellow collectors who can offer tips and trustworthy sources. UK-based shops are increasingly stepping up their game. Many now provide full transparency on product origins, offer pre-order windows for upcoming limited releases, and ship domestically to avoid customs fees. Look for shops with high Trustpilot reviews, detailed product descriptions, and secure payment options. It’s also worth subscribing to newsletters from reputable figurine distributors. These often include early access to sales, restock alerts, and updates on where to find exclusive manga statues.
The future of manga figurine collecting
The world of manga figure collecting is evolving at lightning speed. What was once a niche market has exploded into a billion-pound industry, and with it comes innovation, new manufacturing techniques, and creative releases that continue to dazzle collectors. The shift toward realistic anime figurines with UK delivery and eco-friendly materials is gaining momentum. Resin statues are being designed with recycled content; PVC is becoming more durable and detailed. Augmented reality features are even being tested to bring your static figure to life on screen.
With anime culture more mainstream than ever, new fans are joining the scene daily. This means figures that were once common are now in short supply. Being an early adopter of trending series like Chainsaw Man, Blue Lock, or Oshi no Ko can give you a head start in collecting future grails. Also, digital ownership is blending into the physical world. Some collectors now receive NFT certificates with their limited edition figures, blending blockchain with traditional collection methods. What remains unchanged is the passion. Whether you’re hunting for affordable anime figures for collectors or chasing that ultra rare Itachi variant, collecting remains a deeply personal journey each shelf telling a story, each figure a memory made solid.
Final thoughts
Manga figurines are far more than plastic on a shelf they’re vessels of emotion, art, and community. From rare releases to accessible entry points, each collector’s journey is shaped by the characters they love and the worlds they wish to preserve. If this deep dive has sparked your curiosity, or if you’re already deep in the game, we’d love to hear which figures you’re chasing right now. The hunt is half the fun, after all.