The Kenner Star Wars action figures were produced by the toy company Kenner, which released 96 action figures, multiple vehicles, and playsets based on the Star Wars franchise between 1978 and 1985. From a line of over 100 unique toys, a total of more than 300 million units were sold during their original run. Kenner resumed producing Star Wars action figures in 1995.
The initial line, known as The Original Collection, is highly sought after. Many variations of the figures have been sold at auction for tens of thousands of pounds or U.S. dollars during the 2020s. Even standard figures (particularly if sold with original packaging) can demand extremely high prices. In 2024, a prototype Boba Fett sold for $1.342 million, becoming the most expensive toy ever sold.[1] Collectors have been critical of companies or organizations that purchase the products solely for resale at a profit ("scalpers").[2]
History
The license for Star Wars action figures was offered in 1976 to the Mego Corporation, which was the leading company for action figures in the 1970s. Mego refused the offer and the license was subsequently picked up by Kenner, a division of General Mills Fun Group.[3]