Whether you’re a longtime devotee of the galaxy far, far away or a newcomer drawn in by recent series like The Mandalorian and Andor, building the perfect Star Wars collection can feel as daunting as navigating an asteroid field. From iconic lightsabers to collectible figures, the sheer volume of available merchandise spans decades of creativity and innovation.
The key to building a stellar Star Wars collection lies in understanding what truly captures the essence of this beloved universe while providing lasting value and enjoyment. Here’s your essential guide to the must-have items that every Star Wars fan should consider adding to their collection.
Lightsabers
You can always go to Disney Parks and get yourself a lightsaber from Savi’s Workshop. However, we like Master Replicas and Force FX lightsabers because they offer museum-quality construction with metal hilts, realistic weathering, and advanced sound boards. If you’re on a budget we also recommend Hasbro’s Black Series lightsabers, which provide excellent value with solid construction, good sound effects, and authentic detailing at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives.
Action Figures
For classic collectors you can’t go wrong with Vintage Kenner Figures (1977-1985) from the first trilogy. These are a little pricey though, with rarer figures like Boba Fett fetching up to thousands of dollars. If you can get your hands on them, even the loose figures that are out of their original packaging are definitely worth buying.
If you are looking for something a little more budget friendly, we recommend Hasbro’s Black Series 6-inch line. With improved articulation, photo-real face printing technology, and careful attention to costume details, these figures rival much more expensive alternatives.
Helmets and Wearables
For a screen accurate premium option, we recommend Anovos and EFX Helmets which provide screen-accurate replicas of iconic headgear from Stormtroopers to Mandalorians. These pieces offer incredible detail and authenticity, making them perfect for display or cosplay use.
For a more budget friendly option we choose Black Series Electronic Helmets from Hasbro. The Darth Vader, Stormtrooper, and Boba Fett helmets feature voice changers, authentic sound effects, and surprising attention to detail. This is a great item for kids or for that huge Star Wars fan in your life.
Another option to consider is Etsy. There are many artisan makers out there who make high quality armor and costumes. Whether you’re looking for something from a more obscure side of the galaxy far far away or you’re looking for something highly customizable to your standards, Etsy is bound to have the creator for you.
Books and Media
Books are a great way to delve deeper into the Star Wars Universe. Whether you’re interested in broadening your knowledge of Star Wars lore, or you are interested in a particular topic within the franchise universe, books are a great way to dive in.
To start off you can’t go wrong with the First Edition Novels from the expanded universe era, particularly Timothy Zahn’s Thrawn Trilogy. These books helped keep the franchise alive during the years between film releases and introduced characters who later appear in Star Wars properties you see today.
For a more artistic band check out Art Books and Behind-the-Scenes Materials. These books provide fascinating insights into the creative process behind films and shows. Books like “The Art of Star Wars” series and “Industrial Light & Magic: Into the Digital Realm” offer gorgeous visuals and insider knowledge that enhance appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.
Start Collecting!
Whether you’re drawn to the elegant craftsmanship of a premium lightsaber, the nostalgic charm of vintage Kenner figures, or the immersive storytelling found in expanded universe novels, remember that every great collection starts with a single piece that speaks to you. If you are having a hard time deciding where to begin, start by getting a subscription box or just starting with the piece that brings you the most nostalgia. Either way, happy collecting!