How Much Classic Return of the Jedi Action Figures Cost Today

The Padawan Collector

22 Sept 202417:25

Summary

TLDRThis video script discusses the value of vintage Star Wars action figures from 'Return of the Jedi' in 2024. It details 34 figures released in three waves from 1983 to 1984, including accessories and variants. Prices for carded and loose figures in good condition are provided, with insights into collecting and the history of these iconic toys. The script also teases upcoming content on 'Power of the Force' figures.

Takeaways

😀 The video discusses the market prices of vintage Star Wars action figures from 'Return of the Jedi' in 2024.
🎭 The figures include more soft goods and no more vinyl capes, introducing hoods and removable helmets.
👥 There are 34 action figures released in three waves from 1983 to 1984, with details on the USA Kenner releases.
💰 Prices for the figures vary widely based on condition and rarity, with some cards going for over $800 in good condition.
🔍 The video provides detailed pricing for each figure, including Admiral Ackbar, Luke Skywalker, and Princess Leia, among others.
🎨 Variants in the figures are discussed, such as different colored sabers for Luke Skywalker and different paint applications.
📦 The video mentions that some figures came with unique accessories, like the Emperor's Royal Guard with a Force Pike.
👶 The video shares personal anecdotes, like the presenter's favorite figure and a special figure related to his mother.
🔗 The presenter encourages viewers to support the channel for continued content creation and provides links in the description.
📈 The video concludes with a teaser for the next video, which will cover action figures from the 'Power of the Force' line.

Q & A

What was the significance of the 65a cardbacks in the Star Wars action figure collection?
-The 65a cardbacks are significant because they were the first version of the numbered cardbacks for the Return of the Jedi figures. They are also known for having the Ewok Logray and Chief Chirpa blacked out to maintain the secrecy of their appearance before the movie release.
Why are the prices for Luke Skywalker Jedi KN outfit's debut card different for the blue and green saber variants?
-The prices for the Luke Skywalker Jedi KN outfit's debut card vary due to the color of the lightsaber included. The blue saber variant is priced higher at around $800, while the green saber variant is around $300, reflecting the rarity or desirability of each variant.
What is unique about the packaging of Admiral Ackbar's initial release?
-Admiral Ackbar was initially available as a mailaway offer and was shipped in a generic white mailer box. He later received an official cardback release in 1983's Wave 1 on the 65a cardback.
What is the importance of the 'blacked out Ewoks' on the 65a cardbacks?
-The 'blacked out Ewoks' on the 65a cardbacks are significant because they were intentionally obscured so that fans would not know what the Ewoks looked like before the movie was released.
Why is the Han Solo trenchcoat figure's debut card priced differently based on the coat variant?
-The Han Solo trenchcoat figure's debut card is priced differently based on the coat variant because there are two main coat variants: one with a camel lapel and one with a plain tan lapel. Collectors may value these variants differently, affecting the price.
What is the significance of the 77a cardbacks in the Return of the Jedi action figure releases?
-The 77a cardbacks signify the second wave of action figure releases for Return of the Jedi, which included figures like Neeko and 88, and are part of the series that followed the initial 65a cardbacks.
Why are the prices for a loose complete figure of the Emperor higher than some other figures?
-The Emperor's loose complete figure is priced higher at around $25 for a great version due to the character's importance and the desirability of the action figure, which can drive up the price among collectors.
What makes the Rancor Keeper action figure's debut card relatively affordable compared to others?
-The Rancor Keeper's debut card is relatively affordable, pricing out at around $8 for a good example, possibly due to the character's lesser prominence or the figure's availability in the market.
Why is the Lumat figure often mistaken for debuting in the Power of the Force line?
-Lumat is often mistaken for debuting in the Power of the Force line because the figure was made in low amounts for the Return of the Jedi and collectors often associate the final figures with the subsequent Power of the Force line.
What are the key features to look for when collecting the Max Rebo Band action figures set?
-When collecting the Max Rebo Band action figures set, it's important to ensure that the color of the horn matches the color of the microphones correctly (black horn with silver mics, silver horn with black mics) and that Max has well-preserved blue arms, as these details are crucial for the set's value and authenticity.

Outlines

00:00

🌟 Return of the Jedi Action Figures Overview

This paragraph introduces the Return of the Jedi action figures from the Star Wars franchise, highlighting their significance in 1983 when the movie was at its peak. It discusses the changes in the figure design, such as the inclusion of soft goods and the absence of vinyl capes. The paragraph also mentions the release of 34 action figures in three waves from 1983 to 1984, focusing on the US Kenner releases. It provides specific examples, such as Admiral Ackbar, who was initially a mailaway offer and later released in Wave 1 with a unique black staff. The paragraph also discusses the cardback variations, like the 'blacked out Ewoks' to maintain secrecy before the movie release. Prices for these figures in good condition and loose complete figures in great shape are provided, with an average based on research from various platforms like Facebook, eBay, and auction sites.

05:03

🎭 Diverse Characters and Their Market Value

Paragraph 2 delves into the specifics of various Return of the Jedi action figures, including their accessories and market values in 2024. It covers characters like Princess Leia in her Orana Outfit, the Moran Guard, Emperor's Royal Guard, and Chief Chirpa, each with unique accessories. The paragraph provides average prices for their debut cards in good condition and for loose complete figures in great shape. It also mentions the body mold and head paint variations for Luke Skywalker's Jedi Knight outfit. The importance of researching and verifying the condition of figures, especially for variants and paint applications, is emphasized. The paragraph concludes with a call to support the content creator's channel for continued informative content.

10:04

🤖 Alien and Droid Figures from the Star Wars Saga

Paragraph 3 continues the discussion on action figures, focusing on alien and droid characters. It describes figures like Nien Numb, who was a mailaway figure, and 8D8, the only droid in the Return of the Jedi line. The paragraph also covers figures like Princess Leia in her combat Poncho, Wicket Warrick, and the Emperor, each with their specific accessories and debut card prices. The paragraph provides insights into the variations of these figures, such as different paint applications and accessories, and their impact on the figures' value. It also mentions the rarity and condition of figures like the AT-ST Driver and the Rancor Keeper, emphasizing the importance of joint tightness and paint condition for collectors.

15:06

🎭 Special Edition Figures and Play Sets

The final paragraph discusses specialty figures like Jabba the Hutt and Salacious Crumb, which came in a playset, and the Rancor, which is considered an action figure with significant value in mint and sealed conditions. It also mentions the exclusive pack of action figures featuring SC Nootles and the Max Rebo Band, detailing the specific color requirements for the figures' accessories. The paragraph concludes with a teaser for the next video, which will cover vintage Star Wars action figures from the Power of the Force line, along with their prices and collection facts. The content creator thanks the viewers and signs off, inviting them to watch more videos on the channel.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Vintage Star Wars Action Figures

Vintage Star Wars action figures refer to the original line of toys produced during the 1970s and 1980s, based on the Star Wars franchise. These figures are highly sought after by collectors due to their nostalgic value and the historical significance of being the first Star Wars toys. In the video, the host discusses the market prices for these figures, especially those from 'The Empire Strikes Back' and 'Return of the Jedi,' indicating their collectible status and the video's focus on their value and variants.

💡Market Prices

Market prices in the context of the video denote the current value of vintage Star Wars action figures in the collector's market. The host provides an overview of the worth of various figures, which is crucial for collectors and enthusiasts looking to buy, sell, or appraise their collections. The prices mentioned are based on research from various platforms, reflecting the dynamic nature of the collectibles market.

💡The Empire Strikes Back

The Empire Strikes Back is the second installment in the original Star Wars trilogy, released in 1980. In the video, the host mentions previously discussing action figures from this movie, setting the stage for the continuation with 'Return of the Jedi' figures. This keyword is important as it places the discussion within the broader Star Wars narrative and the timeline of toy releases.

💡Return of the Jedi

Return of the Jedi is the third movie in the original Star Wars trilogy, released in 1983. The video focuses on the action figures from this movie, indicating a chronological exploration of Star Wars collectibles. The host discusses the features and prices of these figures, emphasizing their role in the Star Wars merchandise history.

💡Soft Goods

Soft goods in the context of action figures refer to fabric or cloth accessories that come with the figures, such as capes, skirts, or hoods. The video mentions an increase in soft goods and a discontinuation of vinyl capes in the 'Return of the Jedi' figures, highlighting a shift in toy design and material that collectors might find significant.

💡Cardbacks

Cardbacks are the packaging that vintage action figures were sold with, often featuring artwork and character information. The video discusses different cardback versions, such as '48b' and '65a,' which are crucial for collectors as they can affect the figure's value. The host also mentions 'blacked-out Ewoks' on cardbacks, a marketing tactic to maintain secrecy before the movie's release.

💡Mailaway Offer

A mailaway offer refers to a promotional strategy where customers could order exclusive items, like action figures, by mailing in a proof of purchase from other products. In the video, Admiral Ackbar is mentioned as initially being available through a mailaway offer, emphasizing the unique release methods of certain collectibles.

💡Variants

Variants in collectibles refer to differences in the design, color, or accessories of an action figure. The video discusses various variants, such as different saber colors for Luke Skywalker or the inclusion of a black Palace Blaster, which can significantly impact the figure's value and desirability among collectors.

💡Ewok

Ewoks are a species of small, furry creatures from the Star Wars universe, prominently featured in 'Return of the Jedi.' The video mentions Ewok figures, including Chief Chirpa and Logray, emphasizing their role in the movie and their collectible status. The 'blacked-out Ewoks' on cardbacks also highlight a marketing strategy to generate interest.

💡Sealed Boxes

Sealed boxes refer to action figures that are still in their original, unopened packaging. The video mentions the value of mint and sealed boxes for certain figures, such as the Rancor, indicating the premium placed on items in pristine condition by collectors.

Highlights

The Return of the Jedi action figures were released in 1983 and included more soft goods and no more vinyl capes.

Admiral Ackbar was first available as a mailaway offer and later released in 1983's Wave 1 on the 65a cardback.

Luke Skywalker Jedi KN outfit was released with a variety of accessories and had two saber color variants.

Princess Leia Orana of Alderaan in disguise came with a removable helmet and her Bu rifle.

Morian Guard was released with a unique ax and was part of the 65a cardback series.

Emperor's Royal Guard included a Force Pike and a red soft goods cloak, showcasing Kenner's attention to detail.

Chief Chirpa was one of the Ewoks blacked out on the 65a cardbacks and came with a rubberized hood and staff.

Logray, the Ewok medicine man, debuted with a staff, hood, and pouch.

Clayton Moore came with a vibro-ax and a soft goods skirt, featuring 16 different color combinations.

Rebel Commando was released with a tan rifle and was part of the 65a cardback series.

Biker Scout included a Biker Scout Blaster and was released in the 65a cardback series.

Lando Calrissian in Ski Guard disguise came with a vibro-ax and a removable helmet.

NN-NNN (Nien Nunb) was released as a mailaway figure and later in the 77a cardback series.

Wicket W. Warrick was one of the smallest action figures and included a hood and a spear.

The Emperor was initially a mailaway figure and later released on the 77a cardbacks with his black cane.

Bwing Pilot was challenging to find in near-mint condition due to its paint apps.

Han Solo in Trenchcoat was released with a black Rebel Blaster and a camo canvas trench coat.

The Rancor Keeper came with a gray gaff stick and a hood, and was part of the 77a cardback series.

Lumat was released in Wave 3 with a hood, brown bow, and a strapped quiver.

Paploo was another figure from Wave 3, featuring a hood and a staff.

Jobin and the Max Rebo Band was the only exclusive pack of action figures released as a set.

The Rancor was released in 1984, with mint and sealed boxes being quite valuable.