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They say that the first rule of collecting is to buy what you like. In my case, I like Pluto. The best thing about collecting things themed to a particular character is that anything - no matter how small or inexpensive - becomes a collectible. This is nice because you can create and grow a great collection without it having to break your bank. Of course, you can always add the occasional Classic Collection piece or Sericel to your collection too!

I am a dog person, so Pluto was a natural choice to become my favorite Disney character. He first appeared in the 1930 cartoon, The Chain Gang. Though often a supporting character to at least one of the other Fab 5 members, Pluto has starred in 48 of his own cartoons. His only spoken words came in The Moose Hunt when he said, "Kiss Me" after Mickey thought he had shot him dead after mistaking him for a moose.

Pluto merchandise has increased in the past 10 years or so. I don't know if this means he is becoming more popular or what. But what it does mean is that I have more opportunities to add to my collection. Below are some of my favorite Pluto items.

This is a pen that they sell at the Disney Theme Parks. Shaped like Pluto, complete with rubber ears and green collar, he retails for $3.50.

This is a new version of an old classic. Pluto even looks retro. When you press the button on the bottom, Pluto's legs become limp and he collapses. He stands back up after you release the button. This was selling for $5 recently at the Disney Store.

There are quite a few versions of Pluto plush - full-sized, Mini Bean Bag Plush, etc. This one is an MBBP from Disney's California Adventure. He is backpacking and looks good with the camping Mickey MBBP. Plush prices vary with the size. This one cost $10.

Another version of a Pluto plush is the Walk 'n' Wag Pluto from Mattel. Manufacturer's Suggested Price is $29.95, though you can probably find one cheaper since it has been out a couple of years. This guy does what his name suggests. Using a leased control, Pluto will wag his tail, walk and bark. Very fun!

My mom bought this Pluto cookie jar from the Disney Store catalog for my birthday. I think he cost $45. There are other cookie jars that feature Pluto but this was one of the first that I have seen that is Pluto.

This Pluto telephone is a lot of fun and very detailed. The receiver in Pluto's mouth looks like it has been chewed. When the phone rings, Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Donald go through a little spiel. It was $60 at the Disney Store but appears to be selling for $99 now.

One of the most well-done collectible, the Walt Disney Classic Collection is a set of porcelain figurines featuring some of the best scenes from Disney animated films. There are a number of Pluto pieces in the collection; this one is from the cartoon First Aiders. It sells for around $100.

There is obviously way too much to picture here. Pluto also lends his image to key chains, magnets, pins, Pez dispensers, thimbles, clocks, watches, cels and even McDonald's Happy Meal Toys, among others. But no matter who your favorite character is, a character-based collection can be a fun, rewarding and realitively inexpensive hobby.

-Story by Kathy Walker.
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Have a collectible tip you'd like to share? E-mail Kathy at kathy@startedbyamouse.com, discuss this article in the StartedByAMouse.com Disney Discussion Forums or use the Talkback feature below.

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