5 Collectibles to Watch in the Second Half of 2026
Could the next big investment be sitting in a trading-card pack, a LEGO box or an old Nintendo game?
Collectibles can be risky investments. Unlike stocks or savings accounts, they don't generate interest or dividends, and their value can rise or fall quickly. But scarcity, nostalgia, pop-culture popularity and major events can sometimes create big opportunities for collectors.
As we head into the second half of 2026, here are five types of collectibles worth keeping an eye on.
1. Pokémon 30th Anniversary Products
Pokémon is celebrating its 30th anniversary in a big way, and that could make its commemorative merchandise particularly interesting to collectors.
The Pokémon 30th Celebration Trading Card Game expansion arrives September 16, featuring a new Pikachu illustration from legendary Pokémon artist Ken Sugimori.
Anniversary products can have an advantage over individual cards because collectors may want to keep special-edition boxes and sets sealed as souvenirs.
There's already evidence that Pokémon anniversary merchandise can become significantly more valuable over time. The Pokémon 25th Anniversary Ultra-Premium Collection originally sold for $119.99 and has been selling for around $1,400 on the secondary market as of August 2026.
That doesn't mean the 30th-anniversary products will deliver the same returns. But limited-edition Pokémon merchandise could be worth watching, particularly if demand remains strong after the anniversary celebration.
2. Retired LEGO Sets
LEGO isn't just for kids anymore. Retired sets have become a serious collectible category, with certain sets selling for considerably more than their original retail prices.
The key is picking the right sets. Licensed themes, exclusive minifigures, popular franchises and elaborate collector-focused builds can all help create demand after a set leaves stores.
One example is the Harry Potter Gringotts Wizarding Bank Collectors' Edition. The set originally retailed for $429.99 before retiring in March. Sealed copies are now valued at around $790.
Of course, not every LEGO set becomes more valuable. But collectors looking for potential long-term appreciation may want to pay particular attention to sets that are being retired, especially those tied to major entertainment franchises.
3. Soccer Rookie Cards
The 2026 World Cup has put soccer—and soccer collectibles—under an even bigger global spotlight.
That could make rookie cards featuring young stars especially interesting to collectors. One player attracting plenty of attention is Lamine Yamal.
A PSA 10 2023 Donruss Optic Rated Rookie Lamine Yamal #177 reached a high trading price of $350 on August 1, shortly after his World Cup win. That's nearly $200 higher than its price before the tournament began.
But sports cards come with an obvious risk: performance matters.
A breakout season, major tournament victory or award can send a player's cards soaring, while injuries, poor performance or a loss of popularity can send prices in the opposite direction.
4. Limited Labubu and Pop Mart Figures
Labubu has gone from collectible toy to full-blown pop-culture phenomenon, making limited-edition Pop Mart figures another category worth watching.
For example, the Pop Mart Labubu Jazz Figure originally retailed for about $40 in April and has been selling for around $99 on the secondary market.
Labubu's growing presence in entertainment and other experiences could also help keep the character in the public eye. Pop Mart has been expanding the Labubu brand beyond collectibles, including plans for a film project.
As with any hot collectible, though, popularity can be unpredictable. Today's must-have figure could eventually become yesterday's fad. Limited production runs and unusual or highly sought-after designs may have the best chance of standing out.
5. Vintage Nintendo Games
If you've got old Nintendo games sitting in a closet or garage, it might be worth taking a closer look at them.
Sealed vintage video games can command serious prices, particularly when they involve iconic franchises and are in exceptional condition.
Earlier this year, a sealed copy of Super Mario Bros. sold at auction for an incredible $3 million, breaking the previous $2 million record established in a 2021 private sale.
Obviously, most vintage Nintendo games aren't going to come anywhere close to $3 million. But rare, sealed and well-preserved copies of popular titles can still attract collectors and potentially command substantial premiums.
So before throwing out those old Nintendo games, check the box—and check the condition.
Collectibles Aren't Guaranteed Investments
While these five categories could offer opportunities for collectors, there's no guarantee any particular item will increase in value.
Before spending money, consider marketplace and selling fees, authentication or grading costs, insurance and storage. Most importantly, don't invest money you may need in the short term.
The collectibles market can be unpredictable. Sometimes the best strategy is to buy something you genuinely enjoy owning—and consider any increase in value a bonus.
