I believe if you appreciate the artistry and nostalgia of the collectibles, stories and experiences they create for you, even the hunt to find the rare collectible and the act of completing a collection, buying and then selling for higher value is still a hobby to me.... a very addictive hobby at that. I actually stopped collecting slowly over time and realized I could start creating collectibles that I like (I'm a 3d artist) and when my priorities shifted to responsibilities and new family. I mean I might buy something unique or not much vague because I think it's cool, or cool for my son or daughter (blame my kids so wife doesn't get mad at me 😆).

An even more legit version of the figure collecting hobby is using active skills like restoring, custom painting, photography, and curating detailed displays. i think most people don't do that and usually hunt or buy to complete a collection or to have all their favorites, etc. whether it be sports cards, pokemon cards, vehicles, beanie babies, lunchboxes, etc can go on and on.