We are pleased to present the rarest early-release Skeletor in existence, the elusive “No Warranty, with SKU” 8-Back from 1982. 

In 1982 the MOTU line released three different cardbacks featuring eight characters:

No Warranty, no SKU

No Warranty, with SKU

With Warranty, with SKU

The rarest of these releases was the “No Warranty, with SKU” version, as that cardback design was quickly scrapped and replaced with the cardback featuring the warranty at the bottom. In fact, several characters, including He-Man, have yet to surface in this variant. 

Not only did Mattel evolve the cardbacks, but also the action figures themselves.  For instance, the initial release of Man-At-Arms has red dots on his helmet while subsequent versions are missing this characteristic. The initial test market release of Skeletor showcases purple trunks, peach cheeks, and half boots. Later releases reveal that Mattel altered his look to feature black trunks, full boots, and standard face paint. 

Considered of the one of the most popular evil villains of all time, it’s no coincidence that the Skeletor action figure is also amongst the most valuable. Presented is the rarest 8-back variant in the hobby, the only example to hit the marketplace in many years. Here we see an original first-release Test Market Skeletor action figure coupled with the elusive second-release cardback. The combination of rarest figure, rarest cardback, and “Free” Battle in the Clouds comic is enough to make even the most seasoned collector salivate. This example was originally sourced from a single owner who was a prolific Star Wars collector. His collection included several early MOTU items that presented as though they were purchased right off the store shelf and then meticulously preserved. Only a slight tinting of the bubble and a few spots on the reverse reveal its age of over 40 years. Bright and vibrant, this example presents extremely well, far superior to its assigned grade. A sensational piece for reserved for a top-level collector.  Encapsulated by AFA (70y, 70-85-85), #17293551

Estimate: $10,000 - and up