Complete Guide to Identifying Original Trilogy Action Figure Variants

If you're a Star Wars action figure collector, you know that the original trilogy line has a ton of variations. These can include anything from different paint jobs to changes in the figure's mold or accessories. Some of these variants can be extremely rare and valuable, while others are more common. In this article, we'll take a look at how to identify original trilogy action figure variants, as well as some of the most sought-after ones.

Identifying Original Trilogy Variants

The first step in identifying original trilogy variants is to know what you're looking for. One of the easiest ways to do this is to consult a comprehensive guidebook or website that lists the different variations. Some of the most popular ones include "The Ultimate Guide to Vintage Star Wars Action Figures" by Mark Bellomo and the Star Wars Collectors Archive.

Once you have a good reference guide, you can start looking for differences between your figures and the ones listed in the book. One thing to keep in mind is that some of the variations can be very subtle, such as differences in paint shading or minor changes to the mold. It's important to pay close attention to details like these to ensure that you're accurately identifying the variant.

Another helpful tool in identifying variants is a magnifying glass. This can help you see small details that might be hard to spot with the naked eye. You may also want to consider investing in a UV light, as this can help you detect changes in the plastic that could indicate a figure has been restored or repainted.

Sought-After Variants

Now that you know how to identify variants, let's take a look at some of the most sought-after ones. Keep in mind that rarity and value can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the condition of the figure and the packaging it comes in.

One of the most valuable original trilogy variants is the "Double-Telescoping Lightsaber" Luke Skywalker figure from 1978. This figure features a lightsaber that extends out of the hilt in two sections, making it much longer than the standard version. This figure is incredibly rare, with only a handful known to exist, and can sell for tens of thousands of dollars in mint condition.

Another sought-after variant is the "Vinyl Cape Jawa" figure from 1978. This figure features a cape made of vinyl, as opposed to the later version that had a cloth cape. The vinyl cape version is much rarer and can sell for several thousand dollars in good condition.

Other rare original trilogy variants include the Blue Snaggletooth figure, which was only available through a Sears exclusive cantina playset, and the "Rocket-Firing Boba Fett" figure, which was never released due to safety concerns.

Conclusion

Identifying original trilogy action figure variants can be a rewarding and challenging experience for collectors. By using reference guides and paying close attention to details, you can become an expert in identifying these variations. And if you're lucky enough to come across one of the rarest variants, you could be sitting on a valuable piece of Star Wars history.