Brief History of the World of Action Figures
Since 1959, nearly every little girl in the United States has at one time or another played with Barbie. Playing with female dolls, however, isn't terribly appealing to most boys - and some girls. As a result, Hasbro designed and introduced an action figure for boys in 1964. GI Joe, a 12-inch tall action figure, met with instant popularity, and sales were hugely successful. Since that time, a number of very popular action figures have been created for both the young and the young at heart.
After Hasbro made GI Joe popular, other toy companies decided to get in on the action. Presto introduced Captain Action, an action figure that could be dressed to resemble any television or movie hero, and Mego introduced a line of superhero action figures. These 8-inch wonders were named the "World's Greatest Super Heroes" and featured stars from comic giants DC and Marvel.
In 1977, Kenner revolutionized the toy world with the release of the Star Wars action figures. Although these figures were smaller and less flexible, they were much cheaper, and the reduced cost meant parents could buy several more figures at a lower cost. These 3-3/4 inch tall figures were such a hit that they became the standard throughout the toy industry.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) relaxed regulation concerning toy companies and children's television programming in the early 1980s, and as a result, the popularity of action figures skyrocketed to new heights once more. Mattel began the explosion with the introduction of action figures that featured swivel joints and other new capabilities with "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe."
Transformers action figures were introduced shortly after and became an instant hit. Each of these figures could be changed into mechanical or electronic appliances as well as their robotic doubles. Transformers were much more expensive than other recent action figures because of their durability.
Other action figures featuring superheroes, soldiers, and other television or movie characters were quickly introduced. Star Trek action figures, for example, have remained popular for more than two decades, and are still widely sold and traded.
Creating television programming and releasing action figures that star in those programs is still a popular trend in the entertainment industry today. In fact, new action figure lines have been created. These special collector editions designed for collection and display rather than play.
Action Figures: Navigating the Terms
Collectors have developed their own terms to describe action figures and feature them in exchange or sale to other collectors, so know the terms before trading or buying. Some of these special terms include:
- Book value: This is the price a collector can expect to pay for a certain action figure.
- Exclusives: These figures are often sold only at certain stores, where they can be bought in a large volume made solely for that retailer. In comparison, a semi-exclusive action figure may be delivered to more than one retailer.
- Limited edition: Only a certain number of these figures were produced. Sometimes, this also means that a certain action figure isn't expected to sell very well.
- MIB: This means that the action figure is still in the original box and is still in the same condition it was when it was shipped from the factory.
- Mail-in premiums: These action figures can only be collected by purchasing certain items and then sending in proofs of purchase through the mail.
- Prototypes: These action figures were never released in a production line, but were used only to aid in product development.
- Shortpacks: These action figures were released in a lesser number than other figures in the same group. This might be a result of higher manufacturing cost or a deliberate attempt to make a particular figure more valuable to collectors.
- Variations: Sometimes manufacturing mistakes are made, noticed, and corrected. The figures released before the correction may be more valuable because there are fewer released.
A Guide for Collectors
In addition to these special terms, collectors use two different scales to describe the condition of collection action figures: the C scale and the AFA scale. The C scale is very complex, and rates figures by condition between a scale of one and ten. C10 represents the highest possible quality (mint in box), while C1 represents the worst possible condition. The lowest grade acceptable to most collectors is C8, and grades of C5 or below represent figures of extremely poor quality.
In comparison, the Action Figure Authority, or AFA rating scale, is based on a percentage. For example, action figures with a rating of AFA 100 are almost perfect. Less than one percent of all action figures manufactured have a rating of AFA 90 or above. The lowest quality acceptable to the average collector is a rating of AFA 70. Any items rated lower than AFA 70 are not of collectible quality.
Not surprising most collectors take steps to keep their action figures in good condition. Some collectors go to great extents to protect their collection, including using comic book bags to protect blister-pack action figures from dust or finger oils. Some carrying cases are specially made for action figures with cardboard backing, but any plastic box containing 4" square sections will work well for standard-sized 3-3/4"action figures.
Even recreational collectors can take some basic steps to protect their action figures. Avoiding direct sunlight is best. Sunlight causes color to fade. Cardboard backings will also become brittle when exposed to excessive sunlight. Watch humidity levels as well. High humidity can cause the cardboard backing to become warped and damaged. Finally, remove price tags carefully, taking care to avoid tearing the paper on the figures.
Whether you're a youngster or young at heart, action figures offer enjoyable, long-lasting fun for children - and adults of all ages. These small treasures will provide hours of fun and enjoyment if cared for properly. Enjoy!