Collectible 1970s Star Wars action figures have become a highly sought-after item among fans and collectors alike. These figures were first introduced by Kenner in 1978, following the release of the original Star Wars movie. The line of action figures quickly became a hit, with fans of all ages clamoring to collect their favorite characters.
Today, these collectible figures are still in high demand, with some selling for thousands of dollars. The rarity of certain figures, such as the vinyl-caped Jawa or the rocket-firing Boba Fett, has only increased their value over time. Collectors often search high and low to find these elusive figures, attending conventions and scouring online marketplaces in the hopes of adding them to their collection. Whether a longtime fan or a new collector, the allure of these iconic figures continues to captivate and inspire.
Understanding 1970s Star Wars Action Figures
Franchise Background
Star Wars is a science fiction franchise created by George Lucas in the 1970s. The original trilogy, consisting of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi, was released between 1977 and 1983. The franchise has since expanded to include prequels, sequels, spin-offs, books, comics, and more.
The Action Figures and Their Features
In 1977, Kenner Products released the first wave of Star Wars action figures, which included 12 characters from A New Hope. The figures were 3.75 inches tall and featured five points of articulation. They came with accessories such as weapons and capes, and were packaged on a blister card with a colorful backing that depicted a scene from the movie.
Over the next few years, Kenner released additional waves of figures based on the original trilogy, as well as vehicles, playsets, and other merchandise. The figures became highly collectible, with some rare variations fetching high prices on the secondary market.
Notable Figures: Blue Snaggletooth, Vinyl Cape Jawa, Yak Face
Three of the most sought-after Star Wars action figures from the 1970s are the Blue Snaggletooth, Vinyl Cape Jawa, and Yak Face.
The Blue Snaggletooth was a rare variation of the Snaggletooth figure that was released in 1978. Unlike the regular Snaggletooth, which was a short, red-suited character, the Blue Snaggletooth was taller and wore a blue suit. Only a few thousand Blue Snaggletooth figures were produced, making them highly collectible.
The Vinyl Cape Jawa was a variation of the Jawa figure that was released in 1978. The original Jawa figure came with a vinyl cape, but later versions had a cloth cape. The vinyl cape version is rarer and more valuable.
Yak Face was a figure that was released in 1985, near the end of Kenner’s run of Star Wars figures. The figure was only available in limited quantities in certain countries, making it one of the rarest and most valuable Star Wars figures.
Overall, 1970s Star Wars action figures are highly collectible and sought-after by fans and collectors alike. The franchise’s enduring popularity and cultural significance ensure that these figures will remain a valuable part of pop culture history.
Manufacturing Details
Year of Manufacture
The collectible 1970s Star Wars action figures were manufactured between 1977 and 1985. The year of manufacture can be determined by checking the copyright date on the figure’s leg or foot. The first wave of figures, released in 1977, had a copyright date of 1977 on their legs. The second wave, released in 1978, had a copyright date of 1977 or 1978. The third wave, released in 1979, had a copyright date of 1978 or 1979. The fourth wave, released in 1980, had a copyright date of 1979 or 1980. The fifth wave, released in 1981, had a copyright date of 1980 or 1981. The sixth wave, released in 1982, had a copyright date of 1982. The seventh and final wave, released in 1985, had a copyright date of 1984.
Country/Region of Manufacture
The collectible 1970s Star Wars action figures were manufactured in Hong Kong by Kenner Products, a division of General Mills. The figures were made of plastic and were hand-painted. The Hong Kong factory was responsible for producing the majority of the figures, although some were also manufactured in Taiwan.
Featured Person/Artist
The collectible 1970s Star Wars action figures were designed by a team of artists and sculptors at Kenner Products, led by Mark Boudreaux. The team was responsible for creating the original 12 figures, as well as the subsequent waves of figures that were released. The figures were based on the characters from the Star Wars movies, and were created in collaboration with Lucasfilm. The design team worked closely with Lucasfilm to ensure that the figures were accurate representations of the characters from the movies. The figures were also designed to be poseable, with movable arms and legs, and some also had removable accessories.
Collecting Vintage Star Wars Action Figures
Collecting vintage Star Wars action figures is a popular hobby among many fans of the franchise. These figures were first released in the 1970s and 1980s, and have since become highly sought after by collectors. In this section, we will discuss the various aspects of collecting vintage Star Wars action figures.
The Collectors
Collectors of vintage Star Wars action figures come from all walks of life. Some are lifelong fans of the franchise, while others are simply interested in collecting as a hobby. Many collectors enjoy the thrill of the hunt, searching for rare and valuable figures to add to their collections. Others enjoy the nostalgia of owning figures from their childhood.
Understanding the Value
Understanding the value of vintage Star Wars action figures is an important aspect of collecting. The value of a figure can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including its rarity, condition, and packaging. Collectors should do their research and consult price guides to determine the value of a particular figure.
Price Guide
A price guide can be a valuable tool for collectors of vintage Star Wars action figures. These guides provide information on the value of various figures, as well as tips for identifying rare and valuable pieces. Some popular price guides include “The Ultimate Guide to Vintage Star Wars Action Figures” by Mark Bellomo and the “Star Wars Super Collector’s Wish Book” by Geoffrey T. Carlton.
Condition and Its Importance
The condition of a vintage Star Wars action figure is a crucial factor in determining its value. Figures that are in mint condition, with no signs of wear or damage, are generally more valuable than those that are damaged or have missing parts. Collectors should be careful when handling their figures, and store them in a safe and secure location to prevent damage.
In conclusion, collecting vintage Star Wars action figures can be a fun and rewarding hobby for fans of the franchise. By understanding the value of these figures and taking proper care of them, collectors can build impressive collections that are sure to impress.
Rare Figures and Their Worth
When it comes to collectible Star Wars action figures from the 1970s, some are rarer and more valuable than others. Here are a few of the rarest and most valuable figures:
Double Telescoping Luke Skywalker
One of the most sought-after figures is the Double Telescoping Luke Skywalker. This figure was only produced for a short time in 1978 and features a lightsaber that extends from the hilt with a telescoping mechanism. There are two versions of this figure, with the second version having a shorter telescoping mechanism. The first version is extremely rare and can fetch up to $25,000 in mint condition.
Anakin Skywalker Action Figure
Another rare figure is the Anakin Skywalker action figure, which was released in 1985 as part of the Power of the Force line. This figure was only available through a mail-in offer and came with a collector’s coin. The figure is rare because it was released after Return of the Jedi, and Anakin Skywalker was not a well-known character at the time. Mint condition versions of this figure can fetch up to $1,000.
Double Telescoping Darth Vader
Like the Double Telescoping Luke Skywalker, the Double Telescoping Darth Vader features a telescoping lightsaber. This figure was only produced for a short time in 1978 and is extremely rare. Mint condition versions of this figure can fetch up to $10,000.
It’s important to note that the value of these figures can vary depending on their condition and packaging. Figures that are still in their original packaging and have never been opened are typically worth more than figures that have been opened and played with. Additionally, figures that have been graded by a professional grading service can also be worth more.
Overall, these rare Star Wars action figures are highly sought-after by collectors and can fetch high prices at auction.
Buying and Selling Collectibles
The Role of eBay and Amazon
eBay and Amazon are two of the largest online marketplaces for buying and selling collectibles, including 1970s Star Wars action figures. eBay has a wide range of vintage Star Wars action figures available for sale, with prices varying based on the condition of the item. Amazon also has a selection of vintage Star Wars action figures, but the selection is more limited compared to eBay.
When buying from eBay or Amazon, it is important to carefully read the item description and examine any photos provided by the seller. It is also recommended to check the seller’s feedback rating before making a purchase to ensure a positive buying experience.
For sellers, both eBay and Amazon offer a platform to sell collectibles. It is important to accurately describe the item and provide clear photos to attract potential buyers. It is also recommended to research the current market value of the item to ensure a fair price.
Advice for Buyers and Sellers
When buying or selling collectibles, it is important to keep a few things in mind. For buyers, it is recommended to research the current market value of the item to avoid overpaying. It is also important to carefully examine the condition of the item before making a purchase to ensure it meets expectations.
For sellers, it is important to accurately describe the item and provide clear photos to attract potential buyers. It is also recommended to research the current market value of the item to ensure a fair price. Additionally, it is important to package the item carefully to prevent damage during shipping.
Overall, eBay and Amazon can be useful tools for buying and selling collectibles, including 1970s Star Wars action figures. By following these tips, buyers and sellers can have a positive experience on these online marketplaces.
Additional Resources for Collectors
For those looking to expand their knowledge and collection of 1970s Star Wars action figures, there are several resources available online. Two popular resources are The Imperial Gunnery and the Database of Vintage Star Wars Action Figures.
The Imperial Gunnery
The Imperial Gunnery is a website dedicated to providing information and resources for collectors of vintage Star Wars action figures. The site features a comprehensive guide to identifying and authenticating figures, as well as a database of figures and accessories. The site also includes a forum where collectors can discuss and share information about their collections.
One of the key features of The Imperial Gunnery is its guide to identifying and authenticating figures. The guide includes detailed information on the different types of figures and accessories, as well as tips for identifying fakes and reproductions. The site also includes a database of figures and accessories, which can be searched by name, year, and other criteria.
Database of Vintage Star Wars Action Figures
The Database of Vintage Star Wars Action Figures is another popular resource for collectors. The site features a database of figures and accessories, as well as a price guide and other resources. The site also includes a forum where collectors can discuss and share information about their collections.
One of the key features of the Database of Vintage Star Wars Action Figures is its price guide. The guide includes information on the value of different figures and accessories, as well as tips for buying and selling. The site also includes a database of figures and accessories, which can be searched by name, year, and other criteria.
Overall, both The Imperial Gunnery and the Database of Vintage Star Wars Action Figures are valuable resources for collectors of 1970s Star Wars action figures. Whether you are looking to authenticate a figure or expand your collection, these sites are a great place to start.
Conclusion
In conclusion, collectible 1970s Star Wars action figures are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. These vintage items are not only valuable but also hold a special place in the hearts of many Star Wars fans.
Due to their rarity and popularity, these action figures can fetch high prices at auctions and online marketplaces. It is important for collectors to authenticate the items they purchase and ensure they are in good condition before making a purchase.
Collectors should also be aware of the different variations and editions of these action figures, as some are more valuable than others. Keeping track of a collection with the help of tools such as checklists and visual guides can also be helpful.
Overall, vintage Star Wars action figures are a unique and valuable addition to any collection. Their popularity is likely to continue for years to come, making them a worthwhile investment for collectors.
