Retired Thomas Blackshear figurines can hold or grow in value because no new pieces are produced once a design is retired. What a collector will pay depends on condition, the original box, any certificate, the edition and how sought after the design is. Buying from an authorized dealer and keeping every piece of paperwork protects that value.
As an authorized dealer of Thomas Blackshear works, we see these questions every week. Here is what actually moves the value of a retired piece. To see current pieces, browse our Thomas Blackshear figurines.
Key takeaways
- Retired means no new pieces are made; supply only shrinks.
- Condition is the biggest factor: chips and repairs cut value sharply.
- The original box and certificate matter to serious collectors.
- First issue and limited pieces are often more sought after.
- Value is set by demand, not by age alone.
What retired means
A retired figurine is a design the producer no longer makes. Once retired, the only pieces available come from dealers' remaining stock and from collectors. Scarcity alone does not guarantee a higher price, but it helps when demand is steady.
Who Thomas Blackshear is
Thomas Blackshear II, born in 1955 in Waco, Texas, and raised largely in Atlanta, is a painter and sculptor whose illustration career included Black Heritage stamp portraits for the U.S. Postal Service. Since the mid-1990s his Ebony Visions figurines have celebrated African American faith, family and heritage, which is why collectors follow the series closely.
What affects value
- Condition: no chips, cracks, repairs or fading.
- Original box and packaging: collectors pay more for complete pieces.
- Certificate or documentation: supports authenticity.
- Edition and issue: limited and first issue pieces draw interest.
- Design demand: some subjects are more sought after than others.
How to protect value
Display figurines away from direct sun and heat, dust with a soft dry brush, and store boxes flat and dry. Record each piece's name, purchase date and any edition number. For more care tips, see our guide on displaying collectible figurines.
Buying a retired piece
Buy from an authorized dealer or a seller who can show condition photos and paperwork. Ask whether the box is included and whether the piece has ever been repaired.
How to research a piece
Note the exact title on the base or box, look for an edition number, and photograph the piece from every side. Search recent completed sales of the same title, comparing pieces with and without boxes. For insurance, ask an appraiser for a formal valuation.
Displaying a collection
Display Blackshear figurines in a closed cabinet to reduce dust and handling, with LED lighting that adds no heat. Group them by theme, such as faith, family or music, and leave space between pieces so details read clearly.
Selling or passing on a collection
Keep a simple list of every piece with photos, boxes and paperwork. Whether you plan to sell, insure or pass a collection to your children, that record makes every step easier.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know what my Blackshear figurine is worth?
Check recent sales of the same piece in the same condition, with or without its box. An appraiser can give a formal value for insurance.
Does a missing box lower value?
Usually, yes. Many collectors want the original packaging.
Are Ebony Visions figurines still made?
Some designs remain available while others are retired. See current pieces on our Thomas Blackshear figurines page.
See the pieces in person
Visit ATL Collectibles & Custom Framing at The Mall at Stonecrest, Lithonia, GA, or shop Thomas Blackshear figurines online. Also see our Obama memorabilia, led by Blackshear's limited edition President Barack Obama figurine.
