The 1980s brought a huge change to the world of toys.
This decade introduced many iconic collectible action figures that are still loved today.
These figures offered kids a way to connect with their favorite characters from movies, TV shows, and comics.
The rise of brands like Hasbro and Mattel created a bustling market where kids and adults alike collected these figures as a hobby.
Collectible action figures from this time were not just about play; they represented pop culture moments.
Figures like G.I. Joe, Transformers, and Masters of the Universe captured imaginations and encouraged storytelling.
For us, these action figures weren’t just toys; they were a way to bring our favorite heroes and villains to life.
The designs, poses, and details made the figures special and desired by collectors.
When buying these collectible action figures, it’s important to pay attention to a few critical factors.
Consider the figure’s condition, packaging, and rarity.
A figure in the original box and good shape will be worth more than one that is worn out or missing parts.
Knowing these details can help us make smart purchases and build a valuable collection.
Best Collectible Action Figures from the 1980s
We’re excited to share our favorite collectible action figures from the 1980s.
These classics bring back memories and are must-haves for any fan of retro toys.
Check out our list to find the best figures to add to your collection!
Star Wars Vintage Chopper Figure
This Chopper action figure is a must-have for any Star Wars fan or collector.
- Great detail reflects the original series and design.
- Comes with a cool character-inspired accessory.
- Perfect packaging that takes us back to the vintage days.
- Limited articulation might disappoint some collectors.
- Figure scales down the size, making it less imposing.
- Availability can be tricky, so we might need to search a bit.
Chopper, the lovable droid from Star Wars Rebels, really shines in this Vintage Collection release.
At 3.75 inches, it’s a perfect size for display or play.
We love how it captures the essence of the classic Kenner toys we grew up with.
The new packaging brings back nostalgic memories while showcasing the attention to detail.
What stands out is Chopper’s design, inspired by the animated series.
The added accessory, an interchangeable antenna, is a nice touch that makes this figure even more fun to engage with.
For anyone who enjoys collecting or portraying those epic Star Wars scenes, this figure fits right in with the rest of the team.
While there are a few downsides, like the limited articulation that might not satisfy every collector, the overall quality and nostalgic vibe make up for it.
If you’re looking to boost your collection with a piece that’s both stylish and meaningful to the Star Wars legacy, this Chopper figure is worth adding.
May the Force be with you as you search!
Super7 Rocky Balboa Action Figure
This Rocky Balboa figure is a must-have for fans of the classic movie and collectors alike.
- Great detail and design capturing Rocky’s essence
- Fun accessories for recreating iconic scenes
- Solid quality for a collectible at this price
- Small size might not meet everyone’s expectations
- Packaging can arrive damaged or bent
- Some may find it pricey for the scale
We recently added the Super7 Rocky Balboa action figure to our collection, and it doesn’t disappoint.
At 3.75 inches tall, it’s a fun nod to the classic film.
The black leather outfit looks sharp, and the included ball and stick accessories let us recreate memorable moments from the movie.
Handling this figure is enjoyable, as it’s well-crafted and fits comfortably in our hand.
The details are impressive for its size, and it truly captures Rocky’s vibe.
It’s cool to see the nostalgia of the ’80s through the lens of this toy, reminding us of the iconic scenes that shaped our love for the series.
On the downside, we noticed that some packaging issues can arise during shipping.
While the figure itself is durable, we’ve seen reports of bends or damage to the card it comes on.
Also, the size can be a letdown for some collectors who expect bigger action figures.
Overall, if you’re a Rocky fan or a serious collector, this figure is a fantastic addition!
T13 Action Figure
This figure can be fun for collectors looking for something unique but has some usability issues.
- Fully articulated joints for a variety of poses.
- Comes with cool weapon accessories for customization.
- A fun piece to display or play with.
- Assembly can be tricky and time-consuming.
- Parts may not fit together securely.
- Fragile, with pieces often coming loose.
We just got our hands on the T13 Action Figure, and it has some solid features.
The fully articulated joints mean we can pose it in many dynamic ways.
Whether battling imaginary foes or standing guard on our desk, it adds a lively touch to our collection.
Plus, the accessories let us mix things up and customize the look, which is always a plus.
That said, putting this figure together has been a bit of a challenge.
The assembly process isn’t the easiest, and we found ourselves checking video guides for help.
Some pieces didn’t snap together as well as we’d hoped, leaving us a bit frustrated at times.
Another point to mention is that while the design is cool, the figure can feel a bit fragile.
We’ve noticed that if you pose it too vigorously or even just move it around, parts can come loose.
It’s great for imaginative play, but we need to handle it with care to avoid any mishaps.
Overall, it’s a neat piece for fans of action figures but comes with a few quirks.
Ghostbusters Egon Spengler Figure
This Ghostbusters action figure is a fun way to bring back memories of the 1980s, making it perfect for both collectors and new fans.
- Great nostalgic design that matches the original toys.
- Fun Fright Features keep playtime interesting.
- Classic packaging that adds to the collectible value.
- Some collectors may find the packaging gets damaged during shipping.
- Limited availability can make it harder to find all characters.
- Fright Features might not hold up to rough play.
As soon as we unboxed the Egon Spengler action figure, we felt a wave of nostalgia wash over us.
The design stays true to the original Kenner style from the 1980s.
It’s not just a toy; it’s a piece of our childhood.
The classic packaging with Kenner branding looks great on a shelf!
The Fright Features are a highlight of this figure.
Squeezing Egon’s arm activates some fun actions, like his neck elongating and his jaw dropping.
These features add a playful twist that can amuse both kids and adults.
We’ve found that they spark joy and laughter, especially if you’re reenacting scenes from the show.
While the figure is awesome, we noticed some issues with shipping.
A few collectors mentioned that their packaging arrived a bit damaged, which can be disappointing.
If you’re a serious collector, that’s something to consider.
Despite this, the nostalgic feel and overall fun of the Ghostbusters Egon Spengler figure make it a worthwhile addition to any collection.
McFarlane Toys Sloth Figure
This collectible figure captures the charm of a beloved classic, perfect for fans of The Goonies.
- The detail on the figure is impressive.
- It comes with a cool backdrop for display.
- Perfect gift for both kids and adults.
- The packaging might arrive damaged.
- Limited edition, so it may sell out quickly.
- Not suitable for younger children.
We recently got our hands on the McFarlane Toys Sloth from The Goonies, and it did not disappoint.
Right out of the box, we noticed how well-crafted it is.
The 6-inch figure features intricate details that make it a great addition to our collection.
The included scenic backdrop adds a nice touch for display.
It’s perfect for showcasing the figure on a shelf or in a display case.
We appreciated the certificate of authenticity that comes with it.
It’s always nice to have that extra piece of mind knowing you’re getting a limited edition item.
We did hear some concerns about how packages could arrive.
Some buyers mentioned their boxes were damaged.
Fortunately, our figure arrived in perfect condition.
Just be wary if you’re ordering it as a gift.
Overall, we think it’s a fantastic collectible, especially for Goonies fans or anyone who loves unique action figures.
Buying Guide
When we’re looking to buy collectible action figures from the 1980s, there are some important features to consider.
Here’s what to keep in mind to find the best picks.
Condition Matters
The condition of the action figure is key.
Look for:
- Mint Condition: Never opened and looks brand new.
- Near Mint: Very little wear.
- Good: Some noticeable wear, but still collectible.
Packaging
Original packaging can really affect value.
It’s often a good idea to find figures that:
- Come in their original boxes.
- Have intact packaging artwork and no major tears.
Rarity
Some figures are more rare than others.
We should consider:
- Limited Editions: Figures made in fewer numbers.
- Variants: Different versions of the same figure.
Authenticity
Make sure the figure is genuine.
Check for:
- Authentic branding and trademarks.
- Correct accessories that came with the original set.
Market Trends
Knowing current market trends helps us understand pricing.
We should:
- Research recent sales of similar figures.
- Check collections online for comparison.