A Chase Pop is a rare variant of a standard Funko Pop figure that features a unique twist. It could have a different paint job, pose, accessory, color scheme, or some other alteration that sets it apart from the regular version. Chase Pops are randomly inserted into shipments, making them harder to find, and they usually come with a special "Chase" sticker on the front of the box to distinguish them.
How Rare Are Chase Pops?
- 1 in 6 Ratio: The most common ratio for Chase Pops is 1 in 6, meaning for every six regular versions of a Funko Pop figure produced, only one will be a Chase variant. This means there's about a 16.67% chance of finding a Chase when purchasing a new figure.
- Other Ratios: While 1 in 6 is standard, some Chase Pops might be even rarer, with ratios like 1 in 12 or 1 in 36, depending on the release.
How to Identify a Chase Pop:
- Chase Sticker: All Chase Pops come with a yellow circular "CHASE" sticker on the front of the box. This sticker typically says “LIMITED EDITION CHASE” and is the most obvious indicator of the figure's rarity.
- Different Appearance: The figure itself will have distinct differences from the standard version. These differences can include:
- Color Variations: For example, a regular Pop might have a red outfit, while the Chase version has a blue one.
- Pose Changes: The standard figure might be standing, while the Chase is in a dynamic action pose.
- Accessories: The Chase variant could come with an accessory that the regular version doesn’t have.
- Material Changes: Sometimes, Chase Pops will have a different texture, such as a “flocked” (fuzzy) finish, metallic paint, or glow-in-the-dark features.
Why Are Chase Pops Valuable?
- Rarity: The limited production and random insertion into shipments make Chase Pops harder to find, which increases their value among collectors.
- Exclusivity: Owning a Chase Pop means you have something that not every collector will be able to easily obtain, making it a prized item for any collection.
- High Demand: Because of their rarity and unique features, Chase Pops often become highly sought after, and their resale value can be significantly higher than the standard version.
Where Can You Find Chase Pops?
- Retail Stores: Since Chase Pops are randomly distributed, you might find them at any store that sells Funko Pops, but it’s purely based on luck. Some collectors visit stores as soon as they restock in hopes of finding one.
- Online Retailers: You can purchase Chase Pops online, but they often sell out quickly, or you'll pay a premium price for them on resale sites like eBay.
- Subscription Boxes: Sometimes, Funko will include Chase Pops in their subscription boxes, giving subscribers a chance to receive a rare figure as part of their monthly box.
Things to Watch Out For:
- Counterfeit Chase Pops: Due to their value, counterfeit Chase Pops do exist. Always check for the authentic Chase sticker, quality of the paint job, and details on the box to ensure you’re getting a genuine item.
- Inflated Prices: Because of their rarity, some sellers might overcharge for Chase Pops. It’s important to do some research and check the current market value on platforms like Pop Price Guide or the Funko App before making a purchase.
Examples of Popular Chase Pops:
- Batman (Chase): The regular Batman Pop is blue, but the Chase version features a different color scheme, such as a metallic variant.
- Eleven (Stranger Things): The standard version might show Eleven with her wig on, while the Chase version features her with a bloody nose.
- Joker (The Dark Knight): The Chase version might feature him with his bank robber mask on, adding an extra layer of detail.
How Are Chase Pops Priced?
- Standard Retail: When found in retail stores, Chase Pops are usually priced the same as regular Funko Pops.
- Aftermarket Value: On the secondary market, Chase Pops can range from 2 to 10 times the price of the standard version, depending on their rarity and demand.
The Funko Pop Chase Hunt Experience
Many collectors enjoy the thrill of hunting for Chase Pops, making it a fun and interactive experience. The excitement of finding a Chase in-store or opening a shipment to discover you’ve received a Chase variant adds to the enjoyment of Funko collecting.