How To Determine the Value of Pez
- Determine whether the dispenser has feet (an addition to the base that helps the dispenser stand upright). Pez dispensers without feet were typically made before 1987 and are more valuable.
- Check the patent number on the lower part of the stem to make a rough age estimate. Collectors abbreviate the patent number using the first two numbers, so a dispenser with patent number 4,966,305 would be called a 4.9. The five issues of Pez are 2.6 (issued in 1952), 3.4 (1968), 3.8 (1974), 3.9 (1976) and 4.9 (1990). Some older Pez dispensers are extremely valuable.
- Consider how the dispenser is packaged. In order of least to most value, the designations are: Loose (not packaged), MIB (Mint in Bag - mint condition in a cellophane bag), MOC (Mint on Card - on a cardboard backing covered by a clear plastic blister) and MOMC (Mint on Mint Card - with the card in perfect shape and not bent or scratched).
- Check a Pez price guide. These books identify the variations that can affect a dispenser's value. While one Batman (soft head, gray base, no feet, Loose) goes for more than $175, another Batman (black head, black base, feet, MOC) will score you only about $3. By knowing these variations, you'll be able to bargain with prospective buyers
- Consult online price guides and online auctions such as eBay or Amazon to get a good idea of what your specific Pez dispenser might be worth.