Purpose The purpose of this study is to understand the factors that influence the purchasing behavior of NFT collectibles consumers, using the value-based acceptance model (VAM). As the use of NFTs is predicted to become more widespread in the near future, it is important to explore how these consumers make purchasing decisions. Design/methodology/approach This study employed text analysis and in-depth interviews to identify the factors of benefits and sacrifices perceived by consumers. Based on the results of the exploratory study, a research model and hypotheses were established. To test the hypotheses, an online survey was conducted, and the data was analyzed using a structural equation model. Findings The major findings of this study showed that perceived benefit factors had a significant positive impact on consumers' perceived value of NFT collectibles, whereas perceived sacrifice factors did not have a significant effect on perceived value. Also, when consumers' social needs were met, their perceived value was highest. Lastly, the effect of perceived value on purchase intention was not affected by the level of psychological ownership.