She's certainly very striking and interesting, but even if I had the money, I wouldn't spend that much for just one pony, her prices are absurd.

I remember reading a post on here at some point that said she's not actually as rare as people think she is, and her price was just driven up by demand. Anyone else know the post?

I think there's a lot of value to be had in "baity" ponies. (And not just because they're generally easier on the wallet) giving a damaged pony down on its luck a safe new home and restoring them to their former glory is hugely rewarding, and an extremely important part of my overall experience as a collector.

But even more important, it's serves to remind us that these ponies are, in fact, toys. They weren't originally conceived as collectors items, they were for little girls all over the world who loved pastel ponies. I love looking at some of my ponies and thinking about how once upon a time, they were someone's beloved childhood toy. For example, my princess Serena has the initials J.A.D.E on her hooves in neon pink marker. It makes me think about all the fun 'Jade' must have had with her. Maybe she put her name on Serena's hooves so she wouldn't get mixed up with a friend's herd? Maybe now she's in her 30s or 40s, and she sometimes wonders what became of her ponies?

If nothing else, remember that most 'flaws' such as pony cancer and yellowing are purely the result of ageing plastic. Give it ten years, and your mint ponies might be in the exact same state.

T is for Truly!

S Is for Skyflier!

L is for lavender lace!

P is for Paradise!

G is for Gingerbread!