Vintage Star Wars action figures are highly collectible items from the original Kenner toy line, which ran from 1978 to 1985. These figures are based on characters from the original Star Wars trilogy (Episodes IV–VI) and are beloved for their nostalgic value, unique sculpting, and cultural significance.
Overview of Vintage Star Wars Figures (Kenner Line)
- Scale: 3.75 inches
- Articulation: Basic (head, arms, legs)
- Materials: Molded plastic
- Packaging: Blister cards with character image and movie logo
- Total figures produced: ~100 (from 1978–1985)
Notable Vintage Figure Lines
- Original 12 (1978) – The first 12 figures released:
- Luke Skywalker (with telescoping lightsaber)
- Darth Vader
- Princess Leia
- R2-D2
- C-3PO
- Han Solo
- Chewbacca
- Obi-Wan Kenobi
- Stormtrooper
- Jawa
- Sand People (Tusken Raider)
- Death Squad Commander
- Empire Strikes Back Line (1980–1982) – Added characters like:
- Boba Fett
- Lando Calrissian
- Yoda
- Hoth versions of main characters
- Snowtrooper
- Bossk and other bounty hunters
- Return of the Jedi Line (1983–1984) – Included:
- Emperor’s Royal Guard
- Jabba the Hutt
- Ewoks (Wicket, Logray)
- Luke Skywalker in Jedi Knight outfit
- Gamorrean Guard
- Power of the Force Line (1985) – Final and rarest wave:
- Yak Face
- Luke Stormtrooper
- Anakin Skywalker (spirit)
- Barada, Amanaman
- Includes collectible coins
Most Valuable & Desirable Vintage Figures
These are prized due to rarity, demand, or limited production runs:
| Figure | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|
| Yak Face | Not released in the U.S., rare Power of the Force figure |
| Vinyl Cape Jawa | Early version, replaced with cloth cape |
| Double Telescoping Lightsaber Luke, Vader, Obi-Wan | Short production run |
| Blue Snaggletooth | Sears exclusive; incorrect color and height |
| Boba Fett (Rocket-Firing Prototype) | Never released, test figures extremely rare |
| Luke Skywalker (Jedi Knight, Brown Hair Variant) | Variant highly sought-after |
| Droids / Ewoks Cartoon Figures | Late line, lower production numbers |
Tips for Collecting Vintage Star Wars Figures
- Condition Matters: Value increases significantly with mint condition and original accessories.
- Carded vs. Loose: Figures still sealed on original blister cards are worth far more.
- Variants Are Key: Subtle differences (e.g., cape color, hair color, COO stamps) can add big value.
- Authenticate: Watch for reproductions or fakes, especially for rare figures.
- Display Ideas: Acrylic display cases, custom shelves, or vintage cardback walls.
Top Figures to Collect (If Budget Allows)
- Boba Fett (loose or on card)
- Blue Snaggletooth (Sears Cantina set)
- Yak Face (Power of the Force)
- Luke Skywalker with double telescoping saber
- Vinyl Cape Jawa
Record-Breaking Sales
- Rocket-Firing Boba Fett (Prototype) – $525,000 (2024)
This hand-painted prototype, one of only two known to exist, was developed in 1979 but never released due to safety concerns. It sold at Heritage Auctions, setting a new record for the most valuable vintage toy ever sold at auction. guinnessworldrecords.com+3thesun.co.uk+3antiquesandthearts.com+3 - Rocket-Firing Boba Fett (Sealed) – $236,000 (2022)
A sealed version of the rocket-firing Boba Fett figure, part of the original 1979 production, sold for $236,000, more than doubling the previous record. nypost.com+3entertainment.ha.com+3guinnessworldrecords.com+3
Other Notable High-Value Figures
- Vinyl Cape Jawa – €18,500 (~$19,500 AUD)
A rare Palitoy version of the Jawa figure from 1978, featuring a vinyl cape and still in its original packaging, sold for €18,500 at an Irish auction. Only about ten of these figures are known to exist. thesun.ie+1oldtoystuff.com+1 - Double Telescoping Darth Vader – $64,000 (2018)
An early 1978 Darth Vader figure with a double telescoping lightsaber, produced in limited quantities, fetched $64,000 at auction, highlighting its rarity and desirability among collectors. nerdable.com
Other Rare and Valuable Figures
- Blue Snaggletooth (Sears Cantina Set) – $350
This figure, originally included in a Sears-exclusive Cantina Adventure Playset, is notable for its blue jumpsuit and tall stature, differing from its on-screen appearance. It’s highly sought after in mint condition. cbr.com - Yak Face (Power of the Force) – $20,000
Released only in Canada as part of the 1985 Power of the Force line, Yak Face is one of the rarest figures, especially when found carded with its collector’s coin