Pop 7 (across all grades).  

AFA 90 is the highest graded example, none graded higher 

 In 1982, following a six year hiatus, Hasbro revived the G.I. Joe toy-line with 3.75-inch figures, branding it:A Real American Hero. The relaunch was wildly successful becoming what many consider the most iconic toy-line of the 1980’s.  TheARAHbrand and its characters remain popular to this day.

There is no character more popular amongst collectors than the iconic Snake Eyes.  From the outset, this figure stood out from the rest with his all-black attire and mysterious persona.  G.I. Joe fans could not get enough, and Hasbro acquiesced, releasing a Snake Eyes action figure in nearly every Series of ARAH.

The Snake Eyes release that resonates most with advanced collectors is the elusive “Explosion Back”.  These cards, first released in 1983, feature various “coming soon” explosion icons on the reverse in place of the typical full character images that you see on the regular 20-back cards.  The “Explosion Backs” were essentially preview cards that appeared on shelves for a very short period of time and were quickly replaced with the common 20-back cards displaying all twenty character images.  Rarity, desirability, and high value are features associated with “Explosion Backs” known all too well amongst veteran hobbyists. It’s very rare that you find a collector willing to part with one.  In fact, this only the second 1983 explosion back we have every offered at auction (of any character). 

Presented is the elusive Snake Eyes “Explosion Back” graded an exceptional AFA 90 –there are none graded higher!  Only seven examples (across all grades) have been graded by the hobby’s leading grading service, AFA, utilizing their current three tier grading system that includes subgrades: it earned an unsurpassed overall 90 grade.  The unpunched card is outstanding with deep color and perfect gloss front and back.  Both the figure and weapon bubbles retain perfect form and are crystal clear.  The Snake Eyes figure is flawless standing perfectly upright and his legs and waist are tight and without movement.  Although 40 years old, this specimen appears case fresh.

An “investment grade” example if there ever was one:  this is the rarest release of the most beloved character in the entire ARAH line, and one of the most recognizable and desirable toys of the 1980’s.  There are none graded higher, and we are privileged to present it to our global audience for the very first time.

Encapsulated by AFA (90, 90-85-90), #13371827

ESTIMATE: $25,000 - and up

If you have a similar item and are interested in selling it in the next LCG Premier Auction, please contact us at [email protected].