Wonder Woman collector amasses over 1,500 pieces inspired by her “beacon of hope”

Ever since Wonder Woman debuted in 1941, audiences across the world have loved the superheroine’s strength, compassion, and style – but nobody perhaps as much as Aleshia Wiley (USA), who just took the Guinness World Records title for the largest collection of Wonder Woman memorabilia.

With a treasure trove spanning from comic books to Funko Pops, figurines and specialty toys – as well as a heaping amount of red-blue-and-yellow branded trinkets – the West Georgia native holds an impressive total of 1,581 items related to the fictional Princess of the Amazons.

“It was a labor of love, and I am so excited to have accomplished this!” Aleshia said.

Aleshia first discovered Wonder Woman in the early 2000s through the Justice League animated series, along with her other TV appearances. As she delved deeper into the character in later life, she fell in love with Lynda Carter’s portrayal, and says the1975 television series is “an absolute classic.”

“In those animations, she always stood her ground, was quick witted, and carried herself with strength and compassion,” she said.

The collector was particularly drawn to the character because she represented the power of women around the world – standing up for what she believes is right, and defending the weak, with an inspirational sense of empathy. 

“Wonder Woman is a beacon of hope for girls and women everywhere, and a reminder that we need to support one another more,” she continued. “She shows that true strength comes from within and together we have the strength of the Amazons. 

“Over the years, her character has evolved alongside new generations, but one thing has always stayed the same: women can do anything, and together we are unstoppable!”

Read more stories about record-breaking comic stockpiles in our dedicated Collections section!

Naturally, then, over time Aleshia began accumulating items related to her favourite character, the first object being a Wonder Woman comic #1 from 1987 by George Pérez. The book is particularly dear to her heart, as she was able to meet its writer in 2021. She found the copy at a flea market in Florida, and ended up shipping 8 lbs (3.6 kg) worth of comics alongside it back home with her to devour!

“[I] never realized how large the collection would eventually become,” she remarked. “And since then, it has continued to grow year after year.”

The vast majority of Aleshia’s collection is made up of comic books, created by writers and artists over the last eight decades of Wonder Woman’s life. 

She easily has over 1,000 different editions, though if she had to pick a favourite, it would be the version signed by Stan Lee and Lynda Carter – which she describes as a “holy grail”.

And though her shelves are full-to-bursting with these treasured items, Aleshia said that she doesn’t plan to stop collecting anytime soon – and in fact, has already added more items since the official count. The AMC Wonder Woman popcorn bucket book collectible was a recent quirky addition that she discovered.

While working as an Assistant Director at a group home for adolescent children, she passionately shares her love of reading and “everything nerdy” to the kids at every opportunity – so she has to maintain her collection with pride!

“Some advice I got was, ‘A collection not on display is just junk,’” Aleshia jokingly remarked.

She also was immensely grateful to her friends and family for their support, including Killer Finds Comics in Hiram, Georgia. Aleshia said they played a huge role in helping make her dream come true, and she couldn’t have done it without them.

 “I encourage everyone to support their local collectible and comic shops whenever possible!” she said.

And for those who also see her collection as an inspiration, Aleshia has a few simple parting words as advice: “don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t need that extra collectible if it genuinely makes you happy.”

“Life is short, have fun with it,” she said. “Surround yourself with people who support your passions and encourage you to be yourself.”

So congratulations to this record-breaking wonder woman (as well as the character) – you are Officially Amazing!