Boba Fett (1979) — Collector's Guide
An essential guide to the 1979 Kenner Boba Fett, covering its status as the most iconic Star Wars collectible, key production variants, and the history of the legendary unreleased rocket-firing prototype.
Hook
In the pantheon of Kenner Star Wars collecting, few figures command as much reverence as the 1979 Boba Fett. As the most iconic and valuable piece in the Star Wars toyline, this figure represents the zenith of late-70s collecting. Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned archivist, understanding the nuances of this figure is essential for any serious Star Wars collection.
The Figure
Released under Kenner stock number 39250 as part of the original 1979 launch batch, the Boba Fett figure remains a foundational piece of Star Wars history. Its design captured the mysterious bounty hunter from the Star Wars universe, cementing its status as an essential acquisition for those curating a 1979-era collection.
Accessories & Variants
Accuracy is paramount when vetting a 1979 Boba Fett. The figure comes equipped with its specific Blaster Rifle. Collectors should pay close attention to three primary areas of variation:
- Belt Color (1979): Early production runs feature variations in the painted detail of the belt.
- Armor Shade (1979): Production batches from 1979 exhibited different shades of paint application on the armor components.
- Rocket-Firing Prototype (unreleased) (1979): The most significant variant is the rocket-firing prototype. This version was recalled by Kenner and was never released to the public, marking it as a distinct non-production item.
Rarity & Value Note
The 1979 Boba Fett maintains its reputation as the most iconic and valuable Star Wars figure. While the standard retail version (No. 39250) is the cornerstone of a collection, the unreleased rocket-firing prototype occupies a singular space in toy history. Due to its status as a recalled, unreleased item, the rocket-firing prototype is verified as being worth over $100,000.
FAQ
Q: What is the stock number for the 1979 Kenner Boba Fett?
A: The retail figure is cataloged as Kenner 39250.
Q: What accessories come with the 1979 Boba Fett?
A: The figure includes a Blaster Rifle as its accessory.
Q: Was the rocket-firing Boba Fett ever sold in stores?
A: No. The rocket-firing prototype was recalled and never released to the public.
Q: Are there visual differences in the standard figures?
A: Yes, collectors should look for variations in the belt color and the armor shade across 1979 production runs.