First Release

 According to the AFA population data, this is the only “NO BARCODE” 8-Back example ever graded by AFA in their 20+ year history.

 Presented is the rarest variant of the popular Wind Raider from Series One. This vehicle was released alongside the test market 8-back figures, Battle Cat, Castle Grayskull, and the Battle Ram vehicle as part of the initial offering and debut of the Masters of the Universe toyline. Similar to a canvas in texture, the box quality on this piece is simply amazing. Showcasing Frank Frazetta-style box art, MOTU vehicles and playsets are some of the most in-demand pieces in the toyline as evidenced by the record breaking sales of both the 8-Back Castle Grayskull AFA 80 ($22,206) and 8-Back Battle Ram AFA 85 ($20,920).

Seasoned collectors know there is quite a difference not only in rarity, but in box features between this early release 8-back and the 12-back.  First, rarity: according to AFA population data, only four examples of the 8-back (with barcode) have ever been graded by AFA. Second, the nuanced differences that veteran collectors love are present: the bottom of the box is completely black in color, there is only one Masters logo on the front, and the reverse displays only eight characters. Our offered lot is even more elusive than the standard 8-back.  This freshly graded NO BARCODE variant is the only example in the AFA population report (across all grades). It’s also an elite AFA 85, tying it for the highest graded 8-back Wind Raider across all variants. All boxes are checked: first release, highest grade, rarest variant. We expect lots of action on this lot as auction day draws closer – this is the first time an AFA graded NO BARCODE variant has ever hit the auction block!  Encapsulated by AFA (85), #11778986

Est. $7,500 - $15,000