The Brick Journal

New or Used Minifigures? Which Condition Should You Buy?

Our four condition grades explained in plain English, with a simple rule of thumb for gifts, displays, play and builds.

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"Used" can sound like a compromise, but in the LEGO® world it often isn't. Minifigures are made from tough plastic, so a figure that's been looked after can be indistinguishable from one fresh out of the bag, and a lot cheaper. The trick is knowing which condition suits what you want to do with it.

Every figure we list is given one of four standard grades, the same terms collectors use on BrickLink and eBay, so you can compare like for like. Here's how to choose.

New

What it is: straight from its original LEGO bag or box. Never built or played with.

Choose it if: you're giving a gift, you collect sealed or mint figures, or you want a display piece with zero wear.

Used - part-built

What it is: mostly still in its original bags, though a stage or two may have been started and some stickers applied.

Choose it if: you want the build experience and a good price. It's for people who enjoy putting things together.

Used - good

What it is: previously displayed or played with. All parts are in good condition and checked before shipping.

Choose it if: you're a collector on a budget. For most people this is the best value: a figure that looks great on a shelf, for less.

Used - worn

What it is: an older piece with visible wear, such as sun fading or scuffs. Washed and checked before shipping.

Choose it if: the figure is for play, for building your own creations (MOCs), or for building an army where you need lots of the same character without a big spend.

Questions we hear a lot

Are used figures clean?

Used pieces are cleaned and inspected before they're listed.

What if there's a fault?

Faults specific to an item, like a scuffed leg, are written in the condition notes on its product page. Read them before you buy.

Can I see the actual figure?

Some listings use a reference photo rather than a photo of the exact item. The grade and notes describe the item you'll receive, and you can ask us for a photo of the actual item before buying. Just get in touch.

Can one figure come in different conditions?

Yes. When we stock a figure in more than one condition, it has one listing with a "Condition" option, and each condition has its own price.

Our rule of thumb

  • Gift? Go New.
  • Love a build? Look at Used - part-built.
  • Display on a budget? Go Used - good.
  • Playing, customising or army building? Go Used - worn.

For the full detail, see our condition guide, then browse the full minifigure range or figures under £20.

A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR EVERY COLLECTOR

Ready to find your next figure?

Every minifigure is genuine LEGO, graded for condition and listed with its catalogue code. Most are one-offs, so if you spot the one you want, grab it.

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