Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 vintage Star Wars figure variants every serious collector should know:
For Star Wars action figure enthusiasts, vintage collecting is more than nostalgia—it’s a hunt for rare history. Between 1977 and 1985, Kenner (and a few international partners) released some of the most iconic and collectible action figures ever made. While many figures were mass-produced, a select few variants—due to limited runs, design changes, or exclusive regional releases—have become highly sought-after treasures in the collecting world.
Vinyl Cape Jawa
One of the most famous early variants, this Jawa came with a stiff vinyl cape instead of the later cloth version. Pulled from shelves quickly, it's now a holy grail figure—especially on a 12-back card.
Double Telescoping Lightsaber
Only the earliest production runs included these sabers with a sliding inner blade. Most were replaced with the single telescoping design. Authentic DT sabers are extremely rare!
Blue Snaggletooth
Released only in the 1978 Sears Cantina Adventure Set, this taller, blue-outfitted Snaggletooth was based on early concept art. Kenner corrected the design, making the blue version a must-have oddity.
Yak Face (Tri-logo or POTF)
Never released in the U.S. in standard POTF packaging, Yak Face only appeared on Tri-logo cards in Europe and Canadian POTF versions. He's the figure many U.S. collectors never saw—until years later.
Luke Skywalker (Stormtrooper Disguise) – POTF
Released in the final Power of the Force line with a collector coin, this figure is incredibly popular for its unique sculpt and limited production. Finding one complete with helmet and coin? Pure gold.
Anakin Skywalker (Mail-Away / POTF)
Originally a mail-away exclusive, Anakin later appeared on a POTF card—though carded versions are exceedingly rare. The figure itself is less flashy, but scarcity and nostalgia drive the value up.
Boba Fett (Prototype Rocket-Firing – L-Slot)
While never officially released due to safety concerns, a handful of L-slot firing Boba Fett prototypes exist. If you’re fortunate enough to find one—it’s likely worth tens of thousands. Prototype legend status.
Luke Skywalker (Jedi Knight – Blue Saber, Snap Cape)
Early ROTJ releases included a blue lightsaber (before green was finalized in the film) and a rare snap-style cape. These early versions are favorites among variation hunters and Luke collectors alike.
Lili Ledy Bib Fortuna (Red Staff – Mexico Exclusive)
Mexico's Lili Ledy line introduced unique accessories and paint jobs. The red staff Bib Fortuna is one of the most iconic and hardest to find variants—particularly in good condition.
PBP Yoda (Green Tone & Unique Paint – Spain)
Spanish manufacturer PBP released a Yoda with a slightly different green hue, black eyes, and paint details that stand apart from Kenner’s version. Often overlooked, but a favorite among international collectors.