COLLECTIBLES: Pop Culture Princess

Earlier for Women’s History Month we talked about the bad-to-the-bone women found between comic book pages that have influenced generations and the collectibles market behind them. When it comes to the silver screen a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away there is one queen, rather princess that rises to the top. Carrie Fischer’s role as Princess Leia is arguably one of the most iconic strong women in the world of Pop Culture. She’s been influencing young ladies for decades from when she first fought back against Darth Vader in the opening of Star Wars: A New Hope May 25th, 1977 to leading the Resistance as General Organa in Star Wars: The Force Awakens thirty-eight years later. No pun intended but she is certainly a force to be reckoned with, and that strength has been reflected in the appreciation fans have today for Princess Leia and the market surrounding the character.

When Star Wars was released, it was an instant sensation. People went crazy! So much that Kenner when producing the original toy line waited until 1978 for the release as they were worried, they could not meet the demand for the 1977 holiday season. What they did release though for Christmas that year was an “Early Bird Certificate Package”. This included a cardboard cutout stand for the first twelve figures to be released and a mail-in coupon to receive a four-pack of action figures in the spring. This four-pack included Luke Skywalker, Chewbacca, R2-D2, and our intergalactic woman of the month Princess Leia. She was one of the very first action figures children could play with when Star Wars was released. I’d say that’s pretty important. In today’s market the “Early Bird” kit has become a holy grail for collectors with pristine examples selling over $10,000. But to even have an open and played with kit retaining the original box can bring between $800 and $1,200. While they are toys this is certainly not child’s play today. This coming Spring at Bruneau & Co. Auctioneers we will be offering an original owner collection of factory sealed Star Wars action figures. The collection of a loving mother who every time she bought a figure for her son, she’d buy an extra to keep for herself. If you are reading this and are sitting on a cache of toys, the market is hotter than it hasever been before. The important note though is you always want the opinion of an expert andwork with someone on consignment, you never want to sell outright. You will only be sellingyourself short. When the time comes we are here to help.