POP 1 - This is sole AFA 80 TEST MARKET example found in AFA’s population report, none are graded higher or equivalent. There are a total of only 6 AFA graded examples inclusive of all grades.
We are privileged to present an extraordinary collection of early release Series One “8-backs” from the wildly popular Masters of the Universe toyline. This carefully curated collection includes 6 of the 8 characters in FIRST RELEASE form. “8-Backs” featuring the original eight characters on the reverse, are considered “Holy Grails” in the MOTU collecting community. Below the item description is a summary of the three different 8-back releases.
One of the most important and recognizable villains of the 1980’s, we are pleased to present the very first release of: Skeletor. This is the first time we have offered a FIRST RELEASE/TEST MARKET Skeletor in our auctions. Our example, paired with the He-man and the Power Sword mini comic (with the “FREE” text within the burst), offers excellent display value. Various imperfections on the Test Market card are present and visible in the accompanying photos. The bubble retains perfect form and is completely free of dents, dings, and cracks. Please note that although the label does not designate a yellow tint, the bubble does exhibit a yellow tint and would be assigned a “Y” if submitted for grading today. The mint condition Skeletor action figure contained within stands ideally upright. AFA, the hobby’s leading grading service, assigned the piece an overall 80 red label grade including 85s assigned to two of the three subgrades. We have offered many 8-back Skeletor action figures in our auctions (versions “B” and “C”), but this is the first time we have had the privilege of offering a first-release version of Skeletor. This listing presents a rare opportunity to acquire the highest graded first-release of an iconic villain. Encapsulated by AFA (80, 75-85-85), #17507540
8-Back cards were released in three versions:
Version A:
Also known as “TEST MARKET”, the earliest release. The simplest cardback. No warranty message at the bottom of the card, no SKU number under each character’s name. Although there are 8 characters pictured on the reverse, only six characters of the eight characters were released on TEST MARKET cards. Finally, each mini comic includes “FREE” text within the burst on the bottom right.
First Release of:
He-Man
Skeletor
Beastman
Man-At-Arms
Merman
Stratos
Version B:
This is the 2nd release card back for the 6 characters above, but it is the first release of Teela and Zodac. Teela and Zodac do not exist on TEST MARKET (Version A) cards. The Version B cards are just like the Version A cards, except that each character has an SKU number under their name.
First Release of:
Teela
Zodac
Version C:
This is the most common 8-back and was the third and final release. These cards are most easily identified with the large warranty message on the bottom of the card. Like Version B, each character on back has an SKU number under their name. The mini comic DOES NOT include the “FREE” text within the burst. All 8 of the characters are available on the version C card.
Estimate: $10,000 - $20,000