This lot is part of an exceedingly rare complete four-piece set of original 8-Backs issued at launch.  The set was purchased at retail in Philadelphia, PA in the early 1980’s and preserved by the original owner’s father.  According to the son, his father’s childhood toys were thrown out and given away, so he made sure to keep this collection preserved for his own children.  Please notice the matching Service Merchandise price tag stickers on the following: 

Castle Grayskull 8-Back

Battle Ram 8-Back

Wind Raider 8-Back

Battle Cat 8-Back

Please note the cracking on the top panel of the window.

Presented is a rare, first release factory sealed Battle Cat from Series One.  This iconic character was released alongside the test market 8-backs figures, Castle Grayskull, and the Battle Ram & Wind Raider vehicles as part of the initial offering and debut of the Masters of the Universe toy line.  Similar to a canvas in texture, the box quality on this piece is simply amazing.  Front of the window looks great with only minor surface wear.  Unfortunately the top of the window has cracked post-grading as the saddle and helmet penetrated through.  This will allow value-minded collectors the opportunity to pick up this exceptionally rare piece at a discount.   

The reverse is a clean white and exhibits only a very minor flap crease.  All panels are exceptional!  Seasoned collectors know that there is quite a difference not only in rarity, but in box features between this early release 8-back and the more common 12-back.  First, rarity: the 8-backs make up only approximately 10% (likely closer to 5%) of the factory sealed Battle Cat supply.  Second, the nuanced differences that veteran collectors love are present: the bottom of the box is completely black in color and the reverse displays only eight characters.  A piece that once was out of the reach to many collectors will now, because of the fractured window, be within their grasp.  Encapsulated by AFA (80y, 80-80-85), #12015878