The ’80s were a golden age for action figures, but not all of them are household names. Some lesser-known lines have gained cult status among collectors due to their unique designs and scarcity. These hidden gems often carry high value, with many in mint condition selling for surprising sums. Nostalgic fans and serious collectors are always on the lookout for these rare treasures. Here’s a look at some of the most collectible figures from the ’80s that fly under the radar.
Robo Force Figures
Robo Force figures were robots designed with suction cups for hands, allowing them to stick to surfaces. The figures also featured bendable arms, making them more interactive. A mint-condition figure, especially Maxx Steele, can fetch up to $175. Robo Force has developed a strong cult following due to its unique play features. Complete sets with packaging are particularly valuable.
The Corps Vulture Pilot Lanard Special Forces
The Corps! Pilot Action Figure is part of Lanard Toys’ long-running military action figure series, The Corps!, first introduced in 1986. The pilot figures were designed to represent aerial combatants, often outfitted with helmets, flight suits, and aviation gear. Collectors appreciate the Pilot Action Figure for its detailed design and the affordability that The Corps! line offered compared to other military-themed toys like G.I. Joe. In mint condition, especially with original vehicles or accessories, the figure can fetch between $20 and $50, depending on rarity and condition.
Dino-Riders Figures
Dino-Riders combined dinosaurs with futuristic weaponry and figures. Each dinosaur came with a rider and various battle gear, adding to the play experience. Mint-condition figures, especially large dinosaurs like the T-Rex, can sell for $300 or more. The line is well-loved for its detailed sculpts and playability. These figures have gained cult status among ’80s toy collectors.
He-Man & Battle Cat Mattel Masters Of The Universe
He-Man and Battle Cat were iconic figures from Mattel’s Masters of the Universe line. He-Man featured a muscular build and wielded a powerful sword. Battle Cat, a green tiger with red armor, added extra playability and adventure. A complete set in mint condition can fetch between $200 to $400, especially if the original packaging is intact. These figures are highly collectible due to their nostalgic appeal and popularity in the ’80s.
Tytus – Heroic Giant Warlord
Tytus, the Heroic Giant Warlord, was part of the Masters of the Universe line by Mattel and stands out as one of the rarest figures in the series. Originally released in 1988 in Europe, Tytus was much larger than the regular MOTU figures, standing at 14 inches tall. Due to its limited release and large size, a mint-condition Tytus figure can fetch between $500 and $1,000, especially if it’s complete with the original box and accessories. Collectors value Tytus for his rarity, size, and the nostalgic appeal of being one of the few giant characters in the MOTU universe.
Lanard Toys “The Corps” Action Figure
The Corps! action figure line, produced by Lanard Toys, was first introduced in 1986 as a lower-cost alternative to Hasbro’s G.I. Joe figures. These 3.75-inch figures feature various military characters, each with their own unique code names and specialties. Mint-condition figures, especially those from the early releases, can fetch prices between $20 to $100, depending on rarity and condition. Despite being considered budget figures, their durability and design have earned them a loyal fan base.
Dungeons & Dragons Figures
The Dungeons & Dragons action figures were originally released by LJN in 1983, inspired by the popular Dungeons & Dragons role-playing game and animated TV series. Mint-condition figures, especially rare ones with their original packaging, can fetch between $50 to $300 or more, depending on rarity and condition. These figures are cherished by collectors for their nostalgic connection to the role-playing game and for their unique place in ’80s fantasy toy culture.
Throttle Figure – Tonka’s GoBots
Throttle was a character in Tonka’s GoBots toy line, which was released in the 1980s as a competitor to Hasbro’s Transformers. Like many GoBots, Throttle was smaller and simpler in design compared to Transformers, but it still had a loyal following. In mint condition, particularly with original packaging, Throttle can fetch between $30 to $100 depending on the condition. GoBots have become collectible due to their connection to the transforming robot craze of the ’80s.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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