LEGO FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Questions

Welcome to Nerdacity's definitive guide to the fascinating world of LEGO! Whether you're a LEGO newcomer or a seasoned enthusiast, this LEGO FAQ has you covered. In this Frequently Asked Questions guide, we'll explore everything from starting your LEGO collection to understanding its investment potential.

What is LEGO?

Short Answer: LEGO consists of colourful studded interlocking plastic bricks and an accompanying array of gears, minifigures, and various other parts.

Long Answer: LEGO is a line of construction toys that originated in Denmark in 1949 (with the click coupling system coming later in 1958), capturing imaginations worldwide. Sets range from simple structures for young builders to intricate replicas aimed at adult fans of LEGO (AFOLs). LEGO offers a diverse and creative selection for all ages, encompassing many franchises from both licensed pop-culture sets (Star Wars, Disney, Marvel etc.) and LEGO's own original collections (LEGO Friends, LEGO City, Bionicle etc.).

Why Start a LEGO Collection?

Short Answer: It's educational, creative, collectible, and has investment value.

Long Answer: LEGO is not just child's play (why do you think the put ages '4-99+' on some boxes?); it's also a creative outlet that sharpens problem-solving and engineering skills. It caters to a wide range of interests including architecture, engineering, whilst also encouraging creativity, and satisfying the 'collector's itch' with various licensed set themes like Star Wars and Harry Potter. On top of that, some LEGO sets, as well as the contained individual pieces themselves have proven to greatly appreciate in value, making them a worthy investment (more in 'Is LEGO a Good Investment?' below).

How to Start a LEGO Collection for Beginners?

Short Answer: Find your passion, set a budget, and start building.

Long Answer: First, identify what themes or types of sets interest you the most. Are you into Harry Potter or Star Wars for example? Do you have children or relatives you would love to collect and build LEGO City or LEGO Friends with? Do you enjoy modular buildings, or real architecture, or perhaps the added mechanical creativity afforded by LEGO Technics? LEGO has something for absolutely everyone... To research the wealth of available sets and set types in more detail visit LEGO.com, as there are far too many to list here! Next, establish a budget, as LEGO can range from affordable starter sets under £10 to high-end adult models costing well in excess of £500. Finally, consider the space you have for building, storing and displaying your collection.

How to Determine the Value of a LEGO Set?

Short Answer: Check price guides, assess rarity, and examine condition.

Long Answer: Several online resources can help determine the market value of a LEGO set, such as BrickLink (great for both full sets and individual pieces)or eBay's completed/sold listings. Rarity, current availability, condition, and demand are all significant factors that contribute to a set's value. Always keep the instruction manuals and the original boxes stored somewhere safe and dry, as they add to the set's value, often being sold on BrickLink as individual pieces in their own right.

Is LEGO a Good Investment?

Short Answer: Potentially, especially for rare, 'exclusive' or retired sets/pieces.

Long Answer: Not all LEGO sets will provide significant returns, but limited edition and retired sets/pieces have often greatly appreciated in value in the past at a staggering rate... A study by HSE University in 2021 found "average returns on LEGO sets are 10-11% annually (and even higher if the new set was purchased on the primary market with a discount), which is more than stocks, bonds, gold, and many collectible items, such as stamps or wines, yield". If you're considering LEGO as an investment, it’s essential to keep track of market trends and to keep your sets in mint condition. For our tips on the best currently available LEGO sets to invest, visit our article 'The 4 Best Retiring LEGO Sets to Invest in: 2023'.

How to Spot Counterfeit LEGO?

Short Answer: Examine brick quality, check for the LEGO logo, and verify with trusted sources.

Long Answer: Fake LEGO sets are typically inferior in quality and lack the polished finish of genuine LEGO bricks, being less indestructible than their genuine counterparts. Genuine LEGO pieces will have the LEGO logo on each and every stud, as well as moulding information inside or underneath. If in doubt, always purchase directly from LEGO, from reputable retailers or from well reviewed/rated online sellers.

Where to Buy Genuine LEGO Sets?

Short Answer: Authorised retailers and official LEGO shops.

Long Answer: To ensure you're getting genuine LEGO sets, stick to authorised retailers, reputable retailers (such as supermarkets) or the official LEGO website/stores. Online marketplaces such as BrickLink can also be reliable if the seller has excellent reviews, but always be cautious and ensure to examine sets/pieces for authenticity when they arrive.

How to Care for Your LEGO Collection?

Short Answer: Keep them clean, dry, and properly displayed or stored.

Long Answer: Maintaining your LEGO sets through regular inspections, dusting and cleaning will help preserve their value and aesthetic appeal. Keep them in a clean, dry environment and away from direct sunlight. If you're storing them, try to keep them assembled and use plastic containers to protect them from dust and moisture. For an in-depth guide, visit our article 'How to Clean and Maintain Your LEGO Sets: A Comprehensive Guide'.

Final Thoughts

Starting a LEGO collection is both a fulfilling hobby and a potential investment. Understanding the care, value, and nuances of LEGO collecting will enrich your experience (and potentially your wallet if you ever did wish to sell). Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned AFOL, there's always something new to build, create and learn in the ever-expanding world of LEGO.

LEGO Related Articles

Frequently Asked Questions

• The Ultimate FAQ Guide to ‘Retired’ and ‘Retiring’ LEGO Sets

The Best Retiring LEGO Sets to Invest in: 2024

• LEGO Harry Potter: Hogwarts Express Collectors' Edition 76405 (Hard to Find) 

• LEGO Icons: Titanic 10294 (Exclusive) 

Which LEGO Sets are Retiring in 2024?

• LEGO Architecture

• LEGO Art

• LEGO Gabby's Dollhouse

• LEGO Harry Potter

• LEGO Icons

• LEGO Indiana Jones

• LEGO Star Wars

• LEGO Technic

LEGO Gift Guides: 2024

• 18 Top LEGO Minecraft Gift Ideas for Kids' Birthdays in 2024

Guides, Information, Tips, Care, and Maintenance

• 5 LEGO Investing Tips for Beginners: Start Your Collection Now!

• How to Clean and Maintain your LEGO Sets: A Comprehensive Guide

• LEGO BrickHeadz vs Funko POP! Figures: Collecting & Investing

• What is LEGO Piece 26047? Everything You Ever Wanted to Know

• What is LEGO Piece 32557? Everything You Need to Know

The Best Retiring (Now Retired) LEGO Sets to Invest in: 2023

• The 4 Best Retiring LEGO Sets to Invest in: 2023

• LEGO Architecture: The White House 21054 (Retired)

• LEGO Ideas: Winnie the Pooh 21326 (Retired)

• LEGO Ideas: Medieval Blacksmith 21325 (Retired)

• LEGO Star Wars: Ahsoka Tano BrickHeadz 40539 (Retired)