The Ultimate Guide to Funko Pop Stickers:

One of the most common types of Funko Pop stickers is the retailer exclusive. These stickers indicate that the figure was only available at a specific store, such as Hot Topic, Walmart, or Target. Retailer exclusives often feature unique designs or tie-ins with popular franchises, making them highly sought after by collectors. The exclusivity of these figures can drive up their value, especially if they were released in limited quantities.

Convention exclusives are a cornerstone of the Funko Pop world. These Funko Pop stickers indicate that the figure was released at a major event, such as San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) or New York Comic Con (NYCC). Convention exclusives are typically produced in limited quantities and are highly coveted by collectors. The genuine Funko Pop sticker usually features the event’s logo, adding an extra layer of prestige to the figure. I like to grab ‘con sticker’ Funko Pops when I attend conventions as a souvenir of the event, but don’t chase buying them second hand after the event and am happy to grab the Shared Exclusive sticker variant instead.

The Chase sticker is one of the most exciting Funko Pop stickers for collectors to come across. Chase variants are rarer versions of standard figures, often featuring unique paint jobs, accessories, or designs. These variants are typically produced in a 1:6 ratio, meaning that for every six figures, only one will be a Chase. The rarity and unique design of Chase figures make them highly desirable, and they often fetch higher prices on the secondary market.

Special Edition Funko Pop stickers are commonly found on Funko Pops that are sold internationally or outside their original retailer market. These figures are often identical to retailer exclusives but are distributed in different regions under the Special Edition label. While these stickers are still valuable, they are generally considered less desirable than the original retailer exclusive stickers. That said, oftentimes I’ve found that the Special Edition stickered Funko Pops carry a higher value on value checking sites and apps and on the secondary market in the USA, where the retailer exclusives are more readily available than the internationally sold variants.

Specialty Series stickers are reserved for figures that are available only at smaller, independent retailers, such as local comic shops or specialty stores. These figures are typically harder to find than those sold at major chains, adding to their appeal among collectors and these genuine Funko Pop stickers pique interest when seen on in-box Funko Pop displays. I’ve come across several of these along my Funko Pop collecting journey, particularly when hunting rarer Funko Pops and I especially enjoy my Speciality Series Superman (80 Years) #251 and Poison Ivy (Batman & Robin) #343!

Shared exclusive stickers are used for figures that were available both at a convention and through specific retailers. While the figure is the same as the convention exclusive, the shared sticker often indicates that it was purchased outside the event, usually at a lower price point. These Funko Pop stickers are important for collectors who want the figure but missed out on the convention release.

Regional exclusives are Funko Pops that are available only in certain geographic locations. For example, a figure might be exclusive to a specific country, city, or even a particular store within a region. These Funko Pop stickers add a layer of challenge for collectors, especially those outside the region where the figure was released.

Mystery Box exclusive stickers are a fun twist on the traditional Funko Pop. These figures are included in mystery boxes, where the contents are unknown until opened. The sticker indicates that the figure was part of a mystery box, adding an element of surprise to the collecting experience. These exclusives often come with additional surprises, such as accessories or bonus items, making them a hit with collectors.

As Funko embraces the digital age, NFT Release or Pop Digital stickers have become a new category. These Funko Pop stickers indicate that the figure is part of a limited digital collectible series. This blending of physical and digital collectibles is a growing trend, and these stickers are becoming increasingly popular among tech-savvy collectors.

Exhibition exclusives are tied to specific events, such as Star Wars Celebration or Jurassic World exhibitions. These stickers often feature the event’s logo and are available only during the event. The limited availability and tie-in with popular franchises make these figures highly desirable.

Fan Vote Winner stickers are a testament to the power of the Funko community. These stickers are placed on figures that were chosen by fans through voting, highlighting the community’s involvement in the selection process. The popularity of these figures often reflects the collective tastes of the Funko fanbase, making them a unique addition to any collection.

In the world of collectibles, authenticity is everything. With the increasing value of certain Funko Pops, counterfeit figures and stickers have become a problem that collectors need to be aware of. But how can you tell if your Funko Pop sticker is genuine? Here are some key tips to help you spot a real sticker from a fake one.

The first step in determining whether your Funko Pop sticker is real is to compare it with images of official releases. Look for clear and crisp printing, consistent font styles, and accurate logo placement. Official stickers are usually printed with high quality, so any noticeable differences might indicate a counterfeit.

The quality of the packaging can also be a giveaway. Counterfeit stickers are often accompanied by poor-quality boxes, with misaligned graphics or uneven edges. Authentic Funko Pop boxes are sturdy and well-printed, so if something looks off, it could be a sign of a fake.

To avoid counterfeit Funko Pops and stickers, it’s important to buy from trusted sellers. Official retailers, well-known online stores, and reputable resellers are less likely to sell fakes. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, especially from unknown sellers or online marketplaces.

If you’re purchasing a high-value Funko Pop, you might consider using an authentication service. These services specialize in verifying the authenticity of both the figure and its sticker, giving you peace of mind that your purchase is genuine. While there might be an additional cost involved, it’s worth it to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Sometimes, sellers might add aftermarket stickers to boost the perceived value of a Funko Pop. These stickers are not original and can be misleading. Always research the figure you're buying to ensure the sticker matches the original release.

Funko Pop stickers are not just about authenticity—they can also have a huge impact on the collectability and market value of a figure. Here’s how different types of stickers can influence a Funko Pop’s desirability:

One of the main reasons Funko Pop stickers are so important is because they indicate exclusivity. A retailer exclusive sticker tells you that the figure was only available at a specific store, which can make it rarer and more desirable. Similarly, a convention exclusive sticker signifies that the figure was only sold at a particular event, often in limited quantities. This rarity can drive up the figure’s value, making it a must-have for collectors.

The presence and type of sticker can significantly affect a Funko Pop’s market value. Figures with genuine, original retailer or event-exclusive stickers often sell for more on the secondary market compared to those with shared or Special Edition stickers. For example, a Pop with a Hot Topic exclusive sticker might be valued higher than the same Pop with a generic Special Edition sticker. This difference in value is largely due to the perception of rarity and authenticity associated with certain stickers.

Different collectors have different preferences when it comes to Funko Pop stickers. Some collectors, often referred to as “sticker snobs” (like me!), place a high value on the presence and type of sticker. These collectors often prefer Pops with the original stickers as they feel it completes the aesthetic and authenticity of the collectible. There are even a few Funko Pops where I have picked several versions of the same figure, in the same box, with the only difference being the different stickers.

On the other hand, out-of-box collectors might not prioritise stickers as much, focusing more on the figure itself. However, even out-of-box collectors recognise the impact of stickers on the overall value of their collection. 

Beyond their practical importance, Funko Pop stickers also have an aesthetic value. Certain stickers are considered more visually appealing, which can influence a collector’s desire to own a particular Pop. For example, a sticker featuring a beloved event’s logo, or a unique design element might add to the figure’s charm, making it more attractive to display.