Addendum 10/21: According to population data provided to us by AFA, there are only 4 red label examples across all grades.  Only 1 example is graded higher.

 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

Heman and the Masters of the Universe burst on the pop culture scene in the early 1980’s.  The storyline featured a battle between good and evil and centered around the control of Castle Grayskull.  Grayskull was first released in the initial MOTU roll out that featured test market action figures, Battle Cat, and two vehicles.  The “8-Back” Castle Grayskull is considered a “holy grail” piece amongst advanced MOTU collectors as many have had trouble tracking down a factory sealed example.  Most have settled for the later released 12-back version.

Presented is an exceedingly rare factory sealed first release 8-Back Castle Grayskull in outstanding condition.  This is only the second example we have offered in our auctions.  The first, also an AFA 80, sold for $22,206 over two years ago. That example (AFA#18238457) is the only one to surface in any marketplace since.  As for our current offering – its sensational!  Box quality and cover art are immaculate.  The reverse is amazingly white on the 41 year-old relic.  How it has not darkened over time as you see in almost every example is a mystery!  Rounding out the nostalgia is a well-placed vintage Service Merchandise price tag sticker in the upper corner.  Truly a most impressive specimen of one of the most popular and elusive pieces of the 1980s.  We expect lots of action on this lot as many high-end 12-back owners will see a rare opportunity to upgrade to a first release. Approximately 28.5 x 6.5 x 19.5 inches.    Encapsulated by AFA (80), #18005617

Est. $20,000 - $30,000