Micro Machines Star Trek

Your One-Stop Shop for Collecting This Beloved Sci-Fi Toy Line

The Micro Machines Star Trek line of toys holds a special place in the hearts of many sci-fi fans. First released in the mid-1990s, these tiny, meticulously detailed Star Trek ships allowed fans to recreate epic space battles from their favorite episodes and movies.

Over the years, Galoob and other manufacturers released dozens of different Micro Machines ships covering nearly every prominent vessel across multiple Star Trek series. From the iconic USS Enterprise to newer ships like the USS Defiant, Micro Machines offered an entire miniature armada for collectors and fans.

If you’re looking to relive your childhood or want to start a new Micro Machines Star Trek collection, this detailed buying guide has all the information you need. We’ll cover where to buy these classic toys, how much they cost, which sets are rare, and much more. Let’s dive into the tiny but incredible world of Micro Machines Star Trek!

What Exactly Are Micro Machines Star Trek Sets?

Micro Machines were first introduced in the late 1980s as a line of tiny, detailed toy vehicles scaled to fit in the palm of your hand. The toys were a huge success, encompassing real-world cars, planes, trains, and more.

In 1994, Galoob secured the official Star Trek license and released the first wave of Micro Machines Star Trek ships. These tiny starships allowed fans to directly recreate iconic battles and scenes from the franchise. The initial releases focused on The Original Series and The Next Generation, with dozens more ships added over the next decade.

While never as popular as larger-scale Star Trek ship models, Micro Machines offered unparalleled detail and playability in a tiny, easily displayable package. With an entire fleet in the palm of your hand, Micro Machines brought Star Trek to life for fans and collectors.

Where To Buy Micro Machines Star Trek Toys

Micro Machines fell out of production in the mid-2000s, so buying these toys today often involves looking to secondary markets. Here are some of the best places to buy Micro Machines Star Trek ships and playsets:

• eBay: This auction site almost always has a good selection of Micro Machines ships and sets available, some complete-in-box and others loose. Be prepared to bid against other collectors for rare items.
• Amazon: Marketplace and third-party sellers on Amazon have a frequently updated supply of Micro Machines. You can sometimes find deals on bundled ships and playsets.
• Specialty toy shops: Brick-and-mortar toy stores, especially those carrying collectibles, can be great places to uncover Micro Machines finds. They don’t often advertise their stock online.
• Fan conventions: Events like Star Trek conventions will sometimes have vendors selling Micro Machines sets and individual ships at tables in the dealer rooms.
• Facebook Groups: Joining Micro Machines collector groups on Facebook can let you buy, sell, and trade with other fans. New ships often get offered here first.

With some persistence, you can hunt down even hard-to-find Micro Machines like the Borg Collector Ship or DS9 Space Station for reasonable prices if you check these venues regularly.

How Many Different Micro Machines Star Trek Sets Were Made?

During Micro Machines’ 1990s heyday under Galoob and later Playmates, over 100 different Star Trek ships were released in various sets, packs, and individual packages. Some of the most common themes and sets include:

• The Original Series: Multiple ship sets covering vessels like the Enterprise, Klingon Battlecruiser, and Romulan Bird-of-Prey.
• The Next Generation: Featured the Enterprise-D and ships like the Vor’cha attack cruiser in both individual and multi-packs.
• Deep Space Nine: Playsets included the space station itself with Runabouts and Jem’Hadar ships from the Dominion War.
• Star Trek: Voyager: Captain Janeway’s Intrepid-class starship and Kazon raiders were among the highlights.
• Movie Collections: Sets based on the iconic Wrath of Khan, Generations, and First Contact films.
• Alien Armadas: Themed packs like “Borg Invasion” focused on alien fleets from specific adversaries.
• Display/Carry Cases: Unique releases like the official Deep Space Nine case with 24 ships from the series.

With so many sets and individual releases, assembling a complete Micro Machines Star Trek collection is a challenge. But for many fans, that chase is part of the fun!

An Overview of the Most Iconic Ships Included

While Micro Machines covered a wide swath of Star Trek, most sets focused on the flagship vessels and other prominent designs that fans love. Just some of the most iconic ships you can find as Micro Machines include:

• USS Enterprise NCC-1701: The original Constitution-class Enterprise is a must-have for any Star Trek collection.
• USS Enterprise NCC-1701-D: The flagship of TNG was released in multiple scales and packs.
• USS Voyager: Captain Janeway’s tough Intrepid-class ship saw plenty of action both on-screen and off as a toy.
• USS Defiant: The tough escorts like DS9’s Defiant were natural additions during the Dominion War storylines.
• Klingon Bird-of-Prey: The Klingon attack ships made frequent appearances across multiple eras and sets.
• Romulan Warbird: The deadly Romulan vessels like the D’deridex-class Warbird were a staple as well.
• Borg Cube: The Borg’s massive Cubes were produced in multiple sizes, including a rare vinyl edition exclusive to the VHS of Star Trek: First Contact.

Even with the focus on headline ships, Micro Machines still covered lesser-known designs like the Oberth-class science vessels. There’s a deep bench of recognizable and important ships to collect.

Are Micro Machines Still Producing Star Trek Sets Today?

Unfortunately for collectors, official production of Micro Machine Star Trek toys ended in the early 2000s. License-holder Playmates decided to let the line lapse after years of declining sales.

However, Micro Machines did make a brief comeback from 2016-2017. During this period, they released a limited run of Star Trek 50th Anniversary sets to coincide with the franchise milestone. These sets were Walmart exclusives and featured a retro Original Series theme.

While Star Trek Micro Machines are no longer actively made today, that two year revival gives some hope. With new Star Trek movies and shows continuing to pump fresh energy into the sci-fi phenomenon, we may see additional limited production runs yet again.

For now, collectors must look to existing sets already on the secondary markets. But the future holds chance that Micro Machines Star Trek may warp back onto toy store shelves once more!

What’s the Cost Range for Collecting Micro Machines Ships in 2022?

As an out-of-production toy line, Micro Machines Star Trek prices are subject to rarity and availability. But in general, here’s an overview of the cost ranges:

• Common individual ships: $5-$15 for ships like a standard TNG-era Enterprise.
• Minor character/alien ships: $10-$30 for less common ships like a Ferengi Marauder or Bajoran vessel.
• Full ship sets: $30-$60 for complete themed sets of 4-8 ships in good condition.
• Rare major ships: $20-$60 for hero ships like the refit Enterprise from Wrath of Khan or a First Contact Borg Cube.
• Playsets: $50-$150 for interactive playsets like Deep Space Nine or Starship bridges in good shape with all pieces intact.
• Mint-in-box ships: $75-$300+ for highly desired mint, unopened individual ships.
• Full case sets: $200-$400 for 24-ship complete cases, which are rare in untouched condition.

With hundreds of ships out there, rarity plays a big role in aftermarket prices. But even on the high end, most Micro Machines remain affordable compared to larger Star Trek replicas and models.

How Collectible Are These Vintage Toys Today?

Micro Machines die-hards remain an active collecting community, so many Star Trek sets and ships retain good collectibility, especially in great condition. Factors that make specific Micro Machines more valuable include:

• Rarity: Harder to find ships or sets naturally draw bigger prices. Short production runs also increase value.
• Special variations: Unique paint schemes, molds, or packaging compared to standard releases.
• Completeness: Full playsets with all accessories and an intact box have higher collector appeal.
• ** licenses**: Crossover ships from rare lines like Star Wars Micro Machines command big prices.
• Character popularity: Iconic Enterprises and other hero ships enjoy extra demand.

With nostalgia for 1990s toys growing, Micro Machines are unlikely to lose their collector value any time soon. Even loose ships in played-with condition have decent display value on the desk of any Star Trek fan.

Best Micro Machines Sets for Collectors

While everyone has personal favorites, these Micro Machines sets tend to be the most sought-after for a Star Trek collection:

• Deep Space Nine 24-Ship Display Case (1996): One of the rarest case sets, covering key Dominion War ships.
• 40th Anniversary Star Trek Legends Collsetion (2006): A prized 18-ship set available only through Comic-Con.
• Star Trek: Generations Deluxe Boxed Set (1994): Had key ships from the movie, nicely packaged.
• Trouble With Tribbles Gift Set (1996): Included the Klingon Battlecruiser and Enterprise bridge playset.
• Borg Assimilation Collection (1996): DMS playset and eight Borg ships make this a great display piece.
• Klingon Attack Group 9-Pack (1995): Nice variety of Klingon ships in one purchase.
• **Transporter Room Playset (1994): ** A fun playset for kids and display centerpiece for collectors.
• Enterprise Refit Model: Hard to find, electronic lights and sounds make it impressive.

Part of the fun with Micro Machines is tracking down elusive sets like the Transporter and Klingon Attack Group. Building a full collection takes time but gives a treasure trove of Star Trek ships to enjoy.

Does the Line Include the Iconic Enterprise and Other Major Ships?

What would a Micro Machines Star Trek collection be without the USS Enterprise? Thankfully, most major releases and scales of the line include Captain Kirk’s famous Constitution-class ship along with other key vessels.

Just some of the iconic Enterprises and major ships you can find include:

• Constitution-class Enterprise (NCC-1701): The original design is readily available in multiple scales from TOS sets.
• Enterprise-A (NCC-1701-A): As seen in The Original Series movies, including a rare translucent “cloaked” variant.
• Enterprise-D (NCC-1701-D): The TNG Galaxy-class Enterprise shipped in everything from individual packages to bridge playsets.
• Enterprise-E (NCC-1701-E): The Sovereign-class ship commanded by Picard in the TNG films.
• **USS Voyager (NCC-74656): ** Janeway’s tough Intrepid-class ship saw frequent toy releases.
• USS Defiant (NX-74205): The iconic escort from DS9 was produced for the Dominion War plot lines.
• Klingon Bird-of-Prey: The versatile Klingon attack ship appears frequently across multiple scales and packs.

Micro Machines Star Trek made a clear effort to keep the Enterprises and other “hero” vessels well-represented across the entire line. It makes collecting flagship models easy for any fan.

How Does the Micro Machines Line Compare to Other Star Trek Toys?

As a long-running sci-fi institution, Star Trek has inspired countless toys and collectibles beyond Micro Machines. Here’s how other major Star Trek toy lines compare:

• Playmates (1990s-2000s): The 4-6 inch figures and ships were a bit more affordable and rugged for play.
• Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments (1990s-Present): Intricate but fragile and expensive ornament ships with lights/sound.
• Johnny Lightning (2004-Present): Die-cast metal mini ships at 3-4 inches are more detailed but not great for rough play.
• Funko (2010s-Present): Simple stylized Pop! Vinyl and Wacky Wobbler figures are fun and decorative but not highly detailed.

Aside from Micro Machines, high-end replicas from companies like Master Replicas (1990s-2000s) offered the most detail and screen accuracy but at premium prices.

Overall, Micro Machines struck a great balance between detail, affordability and sturdy playability compared to other Star Trek toy lines. That versatility helps them hold up well for both adult collectors and younger fans.

How Are Fan Reviews of the Micro Machines Star Trek Line?

Overall reviews of Micro Machines Star Trek from collectors are quite positive:

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “These bring back great memories of play. They’re also perfect for collecting and display.”
• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Nice selection and overall toy quality for the price. I’m having fun slowly building my armada.”
• ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Good detail on most ships even at the tiny size. The boxes could be flimsier in design.”
• ⭐⭐⭐ “I wish they made even more variants, but most of my favorite ships are represented.”
• ⭐⭐ “The ships are so tiny that they’re easily lost! Not good for little kids.”

Some fans wish for greater variety in the line, but overall most reviews cite great detail, playability, and nostalgia appeal as big strengths of Micro Machines Star Trek. Their tiny size makes collecting an entire fleet very affordable.

Are the Star Trek Micro Machines Details Accurate to the Shows?

Considering their incredibly small size, most Micro Machines Star Trek ships boast an impressive level of close detail compared to their on-screen counterparts.

Micro Machines designers took care to accurately model the overall shapes and distinctive features of ships like the Enterprise, Klingon Bird-of-Preys, and various alien vessels. Paint detailing reproduces all the major markings, logos, and hull aztecing.

While some finer features understandably get lost at the tiny scale, the overall silhouettes and styling impressively evoke the look of Star Trek’s iconic spacecraft. You’ll instantly recognize these tiny toys as the famous ships they represent.

For easy desktop display, Micro Machines Star Trek ships get you as close as possible to the accurate shapes and details of the shows without taking up much space. They capture the spirit and design ethos of Star Trek remarkably well.

Are Micro Machines Ships Easy To Display?

One of the biggest assets of Micro Machines is their compact size and sturdy design, which makes displaying them simple:

• The small ships are perfect for desktop or bookshelf display alongside other collectibles.
• You can mount the ships on stands or suspend them using fishing line or acrylic rods for “flying” displays.
• Place individual ships or an entire armada on a mirror, plastic sheet, or in a glass case for clean floating group displays.
• For playset dioramas, pose Micro Machines ships around the included space stations and bridge pieces.
• Use magnetic sheets on a fridge or metal board to mount the ships in any formation you desire.

Micro Machines durability means you don’t have to worry about breaking the ships when rearranging or playing with your displays. Just use a bit of Blu-Tack or tape to position the tiny starships anywhere you like!

Which Star Trek Eras Are Included in the Toy Line?

The Micro Machines Star Trek collection primarily draws ships and designs from the three 24th century series:

• The Next Generation (TNG): Numerous ships like the Galaxy-class Enterprise-D.
• Deep Space Nine (DS9): Features ships from the Dominion War like the Defiant.
• Voyager: The USS Voyager and Kazon raider ships were highlights.

In addition, key Original Series ships like the Constitution-class Enterprise and Klingon battlecruiser appear frequently. Many ship packs span both the TOS and TNG-era with a mix of designs.

The mid-2000s revival sets featured more TOS and movie-era ships from The Original Series films.

While Micro Machines didn’t adapt many ships from the prequel Enterprise series, you’ll find the majority of key designs from across The Original Series through Voyager represented in the line.

Highly Limited and Exclusive Releases

Part of the fun with Micro Machines is tracking down rare, limited edition ships and sets. Some of the most sought-after exclusive Micro Machines Star Trek releases include:

• 40th Anniversary SDCC Set (2006): This coveted 18-ship box set was only available through Comic-Con. It included rare sculpts like the NX-01 Enterprise.
• Star Trek: Insurrection Collector’s Set (1998): Only produced in a run of 5,000 gift sets promoting the movie’s VHS release.
• Gold-Plated Die-Cast Enterprises: Special commemorative individually numbered gold Enterprises were highly limited treasures.
• Vinyl USS Enterprise Refit (1996): The iconic movie Enterprise in rare all-vinyl construction and light-up display stand.
• Transporter Room Mail-In Exclusive: The playset came free only via mail-in proofs-of-purchase.
• Star Trek Green Goblin (1995): An incredibly rare Marvel comic crossover ship that now sells for $400+ boxed.

Uncovering treasure like the Gold-Plated Enterprise or Transporter Playset is every Micro Machines collector’s dream. It takes hunting skills and luck but brings serious bragging rights.

Helpful Online Checklists of All Ships Released

One essential tool for Micro Machines collectors is maintaining checklists to track ships across the entire line’s run. Some handy online checklists include:

• Startrek.com Official Micro Machines Database – Comprehensive ship galleries with great photos
• Micro-Machine Museum Star Trek Checklist – Detailed text listings by year with release info
• Macho Miniatures Star Trek Guide – Focuses just on the rarest and most valuable ships
• Star Trek Starship Model Database – Cross-references ships across multiple Star Trek toy lines

Bookmarking a comprehensive checklist gives you an easy reference to consult as you hunt down new additions. It also lets you see just how massive the full Micro Machines Star Trek collection truly is!

Keeping Micro Machines Ships In Great Condition

To maintain Micro Machines ships in collector condition:

• Clean gently with soap and water only when needed – avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the paint and finishes.
• Check glue points on ships regularly to ensure nothing is cracking or loosening. Re-glue carefully with compatible plastics glue as needed.
• Don’t mix loose ships with the packaging and inserts of complete sets – this reduces value.
• Protect from sunlight which can cause fading – keep ships stored or displayed out of direct light.
• Use museum putty and acrylic stands to securely display ships without excess handling.
• Buy protectors like acrylic cases to guard especially rare, valuable ships in your collection.

With some basic care, even used Micro Machine ships can maintain their visual charm and collector appeal for years of continued enjoyment by Star Trek fans.

Are There Micro Machines Star Trek Playsets Too?

Beyond just loose ships, one of the highlights of Micro Machines Star Trek is getting to recreate environments like space stations with the themed playsets they produced. Some of the coolest playsets include:

• Deep Space Nine Station: A big playset that opens up into the iconic space base, with Runabouts and mini figures.
• Enterprise Bridge: A loving recreation of the command centers from TOS, TNG, and Voyager eras to pose your ships around.
• Transporter Room: Features the transporter pad and panels to have your crew beaming up to their ships.
• Empty Space Diorama: Simple mirrored backdrop makes your ships look like they’re soaring through space.
• Starship Weapon System: An interactive set with sensors to test firing little projectiles at your armada.

The playsets add display possibilities and fun interactive elements. Placing your ships within the proper operating environments boosts the imaginative play value that made Micro Machines so great.

What Materials Make the Ships So Durable?

Micro Machines Star Trek ships consist of high-quality ABS plastic able to withstand lots of playtime action from kids. ABS offers:

• Durability: Strong molded plastic that resists cracking and deforming under stress.
• Detail holding: Holds exceptional detail from molds better than lower-grade plastics.
• Paint adhesion: Accepts acrylic paint application without chipping or wearing off easily.
• Density: Has a nice heft in hand that makes the ships feel solid.
• Friction resistance: Slides smoothly along floors and playset surfaces without scratching.

Extras like chrome detailing and transparent sections utilize plastics like polystyrene layered on top of the ABS.

Smart material choices let Micro Machines ships remain impressively immutable in the face of heavy play. Their resilience pays off both for vintage toys and modern collectors alike.

Are Micro Machines Ships Compatible With Other Playsets?

One fun bonus feature of Micro Machines is integrating your Star Trek ships with other toy lines. In particular:

• Micro Machines Super Van City (1996): The fold out city features ramps, roads, and pools for driving Micro Machine vehicles. Your Enterprise can soar over the towering skyscrapers!
• Hot Wheels/Matchbox Track Sets: The standard 1:64 scale Micro Machines ships fit perfectly on popular Hot Wheels orange track sets. Send the Reliant careening through loops!
• Micro Machines Action Fleet Sets: The Star Wars-themed Action Fleet playsets like the AT-AT walker include similar connection sizes to allow your Starfleet ships to engage the Empire.
• LEGO: Micro Machines are sized well to dock at LEGO spaceports and stations. Just like the Enterprise appearing in The LEGO Movie!

Mixing and matching Micro Machine ships with other toys opens up unlimited possibilities. Your Star Trek vessels can explore new worlds of adventure and imagination!

Engage Your Own Micro Machines Star Trek Collection

For any Star Trek fan, Micro Machines remain a must-have slice of nostalgia. Their compact size and resilient design let you recreate the ships and realms of Trek in imaginative new ways.

Hopefully this buying guide provides plenty of ideas and tips to help start your own Micro Machines collection. Assemble your armada, engage your memories, and boldly go where your passion for Star Trek takes you! With Micro Machines in hand, the only limits are your own imagination.