The world of Star Wars action figures, a cornerstone of collectible pop culture, epitomizes not just the fervor for George Lucas’s seminal space opera but also the evolution of toy manufacturing and collecting. Since their introduction by Kenner in 1978, these figures have captivated fans, fueling imaginations and collector’s quests alike. The saga of these toys is as epic as the films themselves, with the “Last 17” standing out as the holy grail among enthusiasts.
This article delves into the history of Star Wars action figures, the story behind the Last 17, their members, their value, and what they signify in the vintage toy community.
The Dawn of Star Wars Action Figures
The journey began in the late 1970s when Kenner acquired the rights to produce toys for a little-known film called “Star Wars.” The initial line-up, known as the “Original 12,” was an instant hit, sparking a collecting frenzy that has lasted for decades.
Over the years, as the Star Wars universe expanded with new movies, so too did the variety of action figures. These toys not only captured the likenesses of beloved characters but also became a medium through which fans could relive and expand upon the stories seen on screen.
The Era of the Last 17
As the original Star Wars trilogy concluded with “Return of the Jedi” in 1983, interest in the franchise began to wane. In response, Kenner started winding down its production of Star Wars toys. However, before ceasing entirely, they released a final series of action figures, now famously known as the “Last 17.”
This group of figures, produced between 1984 and 1985, included characters from “Return of the Jedi,” some from the animated series “Droids” and “Ewoks,” and others that had been overlooked in earlier assortments.
Who Are the Last 17?
The Last 17 is a mix of main characters, lesser-known figures, and those unique to the Star Wars Expanded Universe. This iconic roster of figures includes:
- A-Wing Pilot
- Amanaman
- Anakin Skywalker
- Barada
- EV-9D9
- Han Solo in Carbonite
- Imperial Dignitary
- Imperial Gunner
- Lando Calrissian (General)
- Luke Skywalker in Endor Outfit
- Luke Skywalker in Stormtrooper Outfit
- Lumat (Ewok)
- Paploo (Ewok)
- R2-D2 w/ Pop-Up Lightsaber
- Romba (Ewok)
- Warok (Ewok)
- Yak Face
Each of these figures has its own story, rarity, and reasons for being sought after by collectors.
Rarity and Value
Several factors contribute to the value of the Last 17 Star Wars action figures. Firstly, their production numbers were significantly lower than earlier releases, making them rarer on the secondary market. Additionally, the end of the toy line meant less promotional effort from Kenner, leading to lower visibility and availability at the time of release. Certain figures, like Yak Face, were never distributed in the United States, adding to their mystique and desirability. Today, finding these figures in good condition, especially with their original packaging, can be a daunting and expensive endeavor, with prices often reaching into the thousands of dollars.
A few examples of how expensive these characters are:
- In January 2024, the entire set of 17 loose figures sold for $5,000 on ebay.
- A carded version of Yak Face, graded AFA 80, sold for $12,000 in January 2024 on ebay.
- On the low end of the price spectrum, the figure that tends to be the cheapest is the Anakin Skywalker figure, which somewhat regularly sells between $20-25 for a loose figure on ebay.
The Significance to the Vintage Toy Community
For collectors, the Last 17 are more than just toys; they are artifacts of a bygone era, representing the twilight of the original Star Wars toy phenomenon. They symbolize the end of an important chapter in both Star Wars history and the broader narrative of toy collecting. Owning these figures is seen as a pinnacle achievement within the vintage toy community, a testament to a collector’s dedication, passion, and love for the franchise.
Moreover, the hunt for these elusive figures fosters a sense of community among collectors, who share tips, stories, and camaraderie in their quest. The Last 17 also serve as a bridge between generations, connecting those who grew up with the original trilogy to younger fans discovering the magic of Star Wars through its vintage memorabilia.
The Last 17 Star Wars action figures hold a unique place in the pantheon of collectibles. They encapsulate the nostalgia, excitement, and enduring legacy of the Star Wars saga. For collectors, they are not just valuable in terms of their monetary worth but as cherished pieces of cinematic and toy history. As Star Wars continues to evolve and inspire new generations of fans, the legacy of the Last 17 ensures that the original trilogy—and its final, rare representatives in toy form—will never be forgotten. In the universe of vintage toy collecting, these figures stand as a testament to the lasting impact of Star Wars, a saga that continues to enchant and unite fans across the globe.
