COLLECTOR’S GUIDE • STORAGE • UV PROTECTION • MOC PRESERVATION

Star Wars Collector’s Guide: Protecting Kenner, TVC & Retro MOC Figures

Star Wars carded figures don’t just lose value from “damage” — the real threats are UV fade, card warp, bubble stress, edge rub and surface scuffs. This guide covers how to store and display your figures properly, how to choose the right case by line (Kenner Vintage, The Vintage Collection (TVC), Retro Collection), and how to keep your MOC sharp for long-term collecting (and grading prep where relevant).

If you’re new to collecting or want to decode grading language, condition terms and packaging callouts, see our Action Figure Collector Terminology Guide.

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  • UV & Light ControlReduce fade & yellowing risk
  • Card SupportPrevent bowing, curl & edge rub
  • Bubble SafetyNo pressure points on blister
  • Display DisciplineStable shelves, clean handling

How to Protect Star Wars MOC Figures Properly

The goal is simple: keep the card flat, the bubble unstressed, and the artwork clean. These rules apply whether you collect vintage Kenner, modern TVC, or Retro.

1) Control UV + Heat

  • Avoid direct sunlight — UV damage is cumulative.
  • Keep away from radiators, hot windows and strong halogens.
  • Use low-UV LEDs and switch them off when not needed.

Collector tip: Fade shows later as washed card colours and yellowed bubbles.

2) Keep the Card Flat & Supported

  • Store cases upright on a stable shelf (no leaning).
  • Avoid stacking without rigid protection — it drives bowing over time.
  • Choose a case that prevents wobble and edge rub.

Why it matters: Card warp and edge wear are permanent value killers.

3) Protect the Bubble (Blister)

  • Never compress cases in tight boxes — bubbles can stress at the seal.
  • Avoid “pinch fit” protectors that push against the blister.
  • If the bubble sits proud, choose the correct depth/clearance.

Fast rule: If the case touches the bubble, it’s the wrong fit.

4) Handling & Cleaning Discipline

  • Handle by the case, not card edges or bubble.
  • Keep displays away from loft/garage dust and temperature swings.
  • Clean with a microfibre cloth on the case only.

Rule: Prevention beats wiping bubbles and risking micro-scratches.

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Choosing the Right Case: Kenner vs TVC vs Retro

Star Wars isn’t one card size. The safest approach is to choose by line, then sanity-check bubble clearance. If you’re unsure, use Case Finder or send us the card dimensions.

Not sure how to measure your card and blister depth correctly? Follow our step-by-step guide: How to Measure Action Figures for Display Cases.

Kenner Vintage (Classic Cardbacks)

  • Vintage cards vary by country/print run.
  • Prioritise rigid support + stable display.
  • Best for collectors focused on long-term preservation.
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The Vintage Collection (TVC)

  • Modern MOC with consistent sizing across many waves.
  • High gloss cards show scuffs — sealed cases help.
  • Ideal for wall/shelf displays when supported.
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Retro Collection

  • Card format differs from TVC/Kenner depending on release.
  • Bubble clearance matters — don’t force a tight fit.
  • Great for clean “mint-on-card” displays.
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Fit check: If you see contact or pressure on the blister, stop — choose a fit with proper clearance.

Wall vs Shelf Display: What’s Safest?

Shelf Display

  • Best for stability and low handling.
  • Avoid leaning; keep cases upright and supported.
  • Keep away from windows and heat sources.

Wall Display

  • Choose secure hooks/rails and avoid high-traffic bump zones.
  • Keep lighting low-UV and off when not viewing.
  • Spacing matters: avoid case-on-case contact.

Packing & Shipping for Long-Term Storage (and Grading Prep)

Your aim is to prevent movement and eliminate impact points. A “rattle” in the box often becomes edge rub and corner dings.

If you collect across lines, you’ll recognise similar grading risks around card flatness, edge wear and transit knocks. Our WWF Hasbro Storage & Grading Guide covers the same protection principles in more depth.

Storage Checklist

  • Rigid case that prevents card movement.
  • Stable shelf; no leaning; no stacking pressure.
  • Cool, dry room — avoid loft/garage swings.

Transit Checklist

  • Wrap the case, not the bubble/card.
  • Use corner protection + impact padding.
  • Prevent movement inside the outer box.
Important: Avoid “repairs” (heating, flattening, re-gluing). Protection + correct storage beats risky interventions.

Top Mistakes Star Wars Collectors Make

Mistake: “It’s fine by the window”

UV damage builds slowly. Keep MOC away from direct sunlight and hot window ledges.

Mistake: Tight fit on the blister

If the case touches the bubble, you’re creating stress. Clearance is protection.

Mistake: Stacking without rigid protection

Stack pressure causes bowing and edge wear — store upright, supported, and stable.

Mistake: Over-cleaning bubbles

Bubbles scratch easily. Clean the case, not the blister, and avoid harsh products.

FAQs

Do Star Wars cards fade in indoor light or just sunlight?
Both. Sunlight is strongest, but bright indoor lighting can contribute over time. UV-resistant acrylic reduces risk.
Is it better to store Star Wars MOC flat or upright?
Upright on stable shelving is usually best. The key is rigid support and no leaning or stacking pressure.
How do I know if my blister is under stress in a case?
If you see contact, pressure, or the bubble looks “pushed”, stop. Protection should secure without touching the blister.
Can I ask you to confirm fit if I’m unsure?
Yes — send the card height, width and bubble depth (or a photo with a ruler) and we’ll confirm the best option.
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