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Star Wars Vintage figures

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Star Wars Vintage figures Empty Star Wars Vintage figures

Post by Uncle Tony Tue May 21, 2013 12:35 am

The Star Wars action figures were plastic, usually smaller than four inches, and typically moved at five points on their bodies, but there were many differences and unique qualities in the individual figures that departed from these norms. Kenner's Star Wars action figures were produced along with vehicles and playsets based on the Star Wars movies.

The majority of figures were sold individually attached to "cardbacks" in a plastic blister.

The license for Star Wars action figures was offered in 1976 to the Mego Corporation, which was the leading company in action figures in the 1970s. Mego refused the offer and the license was subsequently picked up by Kenner, a subsidiary of General Mills.

Kenner was unprepared for the unprecedented response to the film and the high demand for toys. Unable to build sufficient stock in time for the lucrative Christmas market, they instead sold an "Early Bird Certificate Package" which included a certificate which could be mailed to Kenner and redeemed for four Star Wars action figures.The box also contained a diorama display stand, some stickers, and a Star Wars fan club membership card.

By the time the action figures were offered for direct sale in shops, the range had been augmented with a further eight figures, bringing the total number of figures in the initial release to twelve.

The four figures that were first brought out in the Sears Cantina set were released for individual sale with a further four figures later in 1978, bringing the total number of figures to 20. Demand for the action figures and accessories was such that Kenner continued to have difficulty fulfilling demand. Shortages of the toys in the lead up to Christmas 1978 lead some to claim that Kenner were deliberately manipulating the market.Sales of Kenner's Star Wars range in 1978 reached 40 million units, accounting for a turnover of $100 million.

Star Wars Vintage figures 417557_496630960399931_949493914_n

click here to see all my Star Wars gear
Uncle Tony
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Star Wars Vintage figures Empty Re: Star Wars Vintage figures

Post by Wednesday Toys Tue May 21, 2013 7:13 am

An interesting read, thanks for the backstory Smile I've never had enough Star Wars figures! I've kept a few that I had as a kid, and often day dream about what toys I would grab if ever I travelled back in time... all of the Star Wars figures make my list!
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