On some models of Sterns, when they produce a 4th model, that model becomes HIghly collectable because that model ends up being made in very low numbers. Then when only 3 models are made, but the Premium model is only manufactured after all LE have sold and The Pro production has slowed, the third model or Premium becomes very collectable. Below is the order of production.
Eg - ACDC
Pro, LE models, Premium .Then the Luci model came which I am told is less prevelent than all the other models.
So the Luci is low numbers compared to the others. Less Luci than Pro in Aust.
Eg - The Walking Dead
Pro, LE produced, then last was limited Premium numbers. The green cabinet of the Walking Dead Premium is hardest to find. Probably less than half a dozen in Australia, if that. Very very hard to find. Will rise in value.
Sometimes the Premium or the "after Premium very short run" number can be very collectable and very hard to find.
When KISS sells out of the LE and runs the Pro and Premium numbers for as long as it can, with whatever Premium stock they have left, which might be selling/moving slowly, all they have to is do a slight cabinet decal art change, slight Translite change, this now becomes a "new limited edition" very low numbered release, it then helps clear the Left over Premium playfields and any left over hardware the company can turn into cashflow and profit.
IF Stern is to extend the LE run of KISS, I think it will be only a small run of same LE numbers, or a slightly different LE in order to keep original LE buyers happy.
Either way, the current Stern model makes all models highly collectable, all the way from Pro to LE or other Premium or 4th special run models. It keeps resale values and collect ability high which is good for both industry and consumer alike. The pinball industry is almost using the Car industry model which is a good thing.
