POP 5 – According to the AFA Population Report, this is one of only five AFA 85 examples on 9-Back card w/ Cobra Commander Offer. None are graded higher. There is a total AFA graded population of 15.

It’s considered by many to be the most desirable hero release in Kenner’s ARAH toy line. The highly elusive Snake Eyes 9-Back with “Free Cobra Commander” offer, is also one the most valuable. With a total of only 15 examples in the AFA population across all grades, it’s certainly one of the toughest to acquire. Snake Eye in 9-back form was the first G.I. Joe action figure in the ARAH line, along with the eight other characters on back, to hit store shelves in 1982. This first version of Snake Eyes is recognized as the straight-arm commando version, rarer than the later released swivel-arm commando version, and much rarer than the ninja version released in 1985. This particular 9-Back release is especially coveted as the card includes the all-important Cobra Commander yellow burst in the lower corner – tying in the toy line’s top villain to its most popular hero.

Our offering is an elite example and comes in the highest-grade AFA has ever assigned the piece – AFA 85. There are none graded higher. It comes from the same prestigious collection as the Missile Commander Center AFA 85 ($34,240) and the MOBAT AFA 85 ($24,427) that we offered in previous auctions.

Condition is superb. Card lays perfectly flat and exhibits outstanding color with no fading. There are few imperfections to be found – see photos. All-original! Bubbles are firmly secured to the card with no sign of lift or reglue. They retain perfect form and are free from dents/dings/cracks. Please note that the bubbles have tinted over time, and if submitted to grading today would receive a “Y” designation. The straight-arm Snake-Eyes action figure within stands ideally upright and forward facing with only moderate leg movement when tested. The blaster is secured in the correct position next to him.

Overall, a fantastic example. It is the first AFA 85 example to ever hit the auction block. As such, we expect collectors will be keeping a close eye on this exciting lot!

Encapsulated by AFA 85 (80-85-85), #3774097