[LE] Introduction

by **The Librarian** Wed May 12, 2021 6:10 am

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[subtitle]Introduction[/subtitle]

During the late 70's and early 80's Japan produced a rich and diverse range of toys and collectibles for the Star Wars franchise. The three main licensees were Takara, Popy and Tsukuda. Each taking on one of the trilogy movie franchises respectively. Takara produced a small run of some of the first twelve Star Wars figures. Each figure produced had sculpt designs, unique to the Takara line. These figures included a wind up R2D2, C-3PO, Stormtrooper and Darth Vader. As well as figures Takara produced die cast vehicles and an awesome silver X wing fighter!

When ESB came around it was the turn of toy manufacturer Popy to produce a line of boxed figures for the franchise. These comprised of sealed baggie figures that were produced in the HK factories. So, although the fantastic box design and packaging was unique to Japan, the figures themselves were the same found on regular Kenner card backs. Interestingly, although the figures are in a tape sealed baggie, the boxes themselves were not sealed. Unlike the mailer boxes found across the western world. Which is great for collectors today, who can safely open the boxes to view the figure inside without compromising the value or appearance of the boxed figure.

Tsukuda later went on to produce a line of carded figures for the ROTJ franchise. These mainly consisted of importing Kenner stock and then placing their own branded large sticker on the back of each card.

But in this thread it's the Popy line of 15 boxed figures that we are focusing on. Popy also numbered each character box so that it made it easier and more appealing to collectors.
Please enjoy!
Below are the amazing language lithographic artwork and design from this much loved line of Star Wars figures!

[authors] Captain Antilles [/authors]
[photographers] Javier Ruilopez / Jay-Psybertech[/photographers]