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

No Warranty, no SKU

No Warranty, with SKU

With Warranty, with SKU

Not only did Mattel evolve the cardbacks, but also the action figures themselves. For example, the initial release (aka “test market”) 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. Subsequent releases, beginning with the 8-Back with Warranty w/ SKU card, reveal that Mattel altered Skeletor’s look to feature black trunks, standard face paint, and later full boots (on 12 back cards). The mini comics also changed. The “Free” text featured on the Test Market comics was omitted beginning with the 8-Back with Warranty w/ SKU card.

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 an 8-back variant that combines the first-release Test Market Skeletor action figure (purple trunks, peach cheeks, and half boots) and first-release Test Market “Free” comic on the third-release w/ Warranty w/ SKU cardback. The inclusion of these items: Test Market action figure and Test Market “Free” Vengeance of Skeletor” comic is enough to make even the most seasoned collector salivate. It’s the only known example in the hobby, and it originates from the personal collection of one of the hobby’s more prominent collectors. 

As for the condition, it’s an AFA 80 with desirable subgrades of 80 and above. The card imperfections include a 2-inch vein on the upper half of card that originates from the right edge. There is also a portion where the card appears  “embossed” along the top edge of the bubble near midpoint. The reverse is a nice white color but does exhibit a faint horizontal crease just above midpoint. The bubble is crystal clear and contains an exquisite Test Market Skeletor action figure and Test Market comic. A sensational piece, the only one of its kind, reserved for a top-level collector.  Encapsulated by AFA (80, 80-85-85), #11237263

Estimate: $10,000 - and up