Star Wars has been a fan favorite for generations. In particular, the iconic Kenner figures (first hit shelves in 1978) have become more than just toys but collectible treasures. With over 40 years of figures, some have become seriously valuable. So, what is the most collectible Star Wars figure? We'll show you the top 5 must-have Star Wars figures for any serious collector.
Top 5 Most Collectible Star Wars Action Figures You Need to Know
We’ve got you covered with the top 5 most collectible Star Wars action figures you need to know. SPOIL: The real gems are the figures from the ‘70s and ‘80s, and if you’ve got them in their original packaging, even better. Let’s jump right in and check out these must-have treasures!
1. Rocket-Firing Boba Fett Prototype
The Rocket-Firing Boba Fett Prototype is one of the rarest and most valuable Star Wars collectibles. Released in 1979 by Kenner, it was originally intended as a promotional figure to be mailed to kids in a simple white cardboard box.
The figure was designed with a rocket-firing backpack, a highly anticipated feature at the time. However, after an incident involving a similar toy from another company, concerns over safety led Kenner to abandon the rocket-firing mechanism before the toy went into mass production. Despite this, around two dozen prototypes survived, some fully painted and others cast in blue plastic; this them highly desirable among collectors.
These prototypes are considered Star Wars memorabilia’s "Holy Grail" due to their rarity and the character’s immense popularity. The Rocket-Firing Boba Fett Prototype has fetched prices upwards of $204,435 at auctions. As a result, it’s the most expensive Star Wars toy ever sold.
2. Vinyl-Cape Jawa
The Vinyl-Cape Jawa was released back in 1978 by Kenner, and the figure originally came with a vinyl plastic cape. But here's the twist: Kenner took one look at the Jawa and thought, "This looks way too cheap for the couple of bucks we're charging," so they quickly swapped out the vinyl cape for a cloth one. Since they did this so early on, most people didn’t even know the vinyl version existed!
Because of that quick change, the vinyl-cape Jawa is now super rare and highly collectible. In mint condition and still in the box, it can go for around $4,900, but fetches much more; one sold at an auction in 2018 for over $21,000! What was seemingly a cheap vinyl cape back in the day turned out to be worth way more than Kenner ever expected; this little Jawa is a real treasure for collectors.
3. Double-Telescoping Luke Skywalker
The Double-Telescoping Luke Skywalker was part of the Early Bird kit—a special set meant to keep eager fans satisfied before the full toy line hit shelves, released by Kenner in 1977. What makes this Luke Skywalker figure unique is its lightsaber: it originally had a "double-telescoping" design, meaning it extended twice from the arm to mimic the iconic glowing blade effect.
However, this design turned out to be complicated to produce, and Kenner was worried about the small pieces being lost. As a result, they quickly simplified the saber to extend just once. Because of this change, only a limited number of the double-telescoping versions exist. While you might find one of these figures for under $1,000 without the box, a sealed and boxed version is much more valuable, often costing around $3,800 or more.
4. Yak Face (Powers of the Force)
Released by Kenner in 1985, Yak Face was originally intended to hit shelves in the United States. However, due to the declining interest in Star Wars toys at the time, as kids were shifting their attention to G.I. Joe and Transformers, the figure was never widely released in the U.S. Instead, it only made it to stores overseas, making it much harder to find. Yak Face’s brief appearance in Return of the Jedi and occasional appearances in Star Wars novels and comics added to its allure for die-hard fans.
What makes this figure even more valuable is its packaging, especially when it comes with the collectible coin from the Power of the Force line. A boxed Yak Face with the collector's coin can easily fetch over $7,000, making it one of the priciest Star Wars figures around.
5. Ben (Obi-Wan) Kenobi 'First Shot' Prototype
The Ben (Obi-Wan) Kenobi 'First Shot' Prototype is one of those legendary Star Wars collectibles that serious fans dream about. Released by Kenner in 1977, this version of Obi-Wan comes with a double-telescoping lightsaber, just like the early versions of Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. The saber has a cool design where it extends twice, with a thin, needle-like tip sticking out, a unique feature that makes it stand out from later figures.
This version of Obi-Wan is incredibly rare, with only a handful known to still be around. That’s why it’s become such a big deal for collectors. One of these rare figures, still sealed in its original packaging, sold at auction in 2018 for over $76,000; so, it’s definitely one for the big spenders. If you’re ever thinking of investing in one, a good way to confirm it’s the real deal is by checking that thin, long piece of the saber.
What Makes a Star Wars Figure Collectible?
It all comes down to a mix of rarity, character popularity, condition, and unique features. Super rare figures (maybe they had a short production run, were only sold overseas, or are prototypes) tend to be the most sought-after. Collectors love chasing after those hard-to-find pieces!
Popular characters like Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, or Boba Fett usually have figures that are in high demand. But sometimes, even obscure characters become valuable when their figures are rare (or have a special backstory).
The figure's condition is also a big concern: it's worth a lot more if it's still in its original packaging and mint condition. Special packaging, collector's coins, or unique accessories (like those double-telescoping lightsabers) can make a figure even more desirable.
Production errors/oddities, like misprints/unusual paint jobs, can turn a regular figure into a collector's treasure; and of course, if a character becomes popular again because of a new movie or show, their old figures might spike in value.
Where to Find and Buy Collectible Star Wars Figures
If you prefer in-person shopping, hit up toy conventions, Star Wars fan events, or comic cons, and you'll find plenty of sellers and fellow collectors there. Don’t forget local comic shops and vintage toy stores because they might have some hidden treasures.
If you'd like to get your hands on some collectible Star Wars figures, eBay, Etsy, and many more have numerous choices - from absolutely vintage finds to absolutely new. You can also try checking Rebelscum or Entertainment Earth for those rare figures.
Fendory is also a great online place to buy awesome Star Wars merchandise, including officially licensed mugs, T-shirts, and more. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect tee to represent your favorite character or a cool mug for your morning coffee, Fendory has you covered. Don’t miss out!
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