Princess Leia (1977) — Collector's Guide
A collector’s guide to the 1977 Kenner Princess Leia, covering the launch history, accessories, variants, and identifying characteristics.
Hook
When the original Star Wars film hit theaters in 1977, it sparked a toy phenomenon that remains a cornerstone for collectors today. Among the initial launch batch, the Princess Leia action figure (No. 38190) stands as a definitive piece of toy history. As the Princess of Alderaan and leader of the Rebel Alliance, her figure serves as a vital entry point for any serious Kenner Star Wars collection.
The Figure
Kenner’s 1977 Princess Leia is part of the Star Wars sub-group. Dressed in her iconic white dress outfit, the figure captures the character's appearance from the film. The figure, designated by catalog number 38190, represents early Kenner manufacturing and is a foundational element of the inaugural toyline release.
Accessories & Variants
Accessories
The original figure was packaged with two specific items:
- Cape: A white vinyl cape.
- Blaster: The Defender sporting blaster, finished in dark blue or black.
Collectors should prioritize finding these original accessories, as they are essential for a complete set.
Variants
There is a documented variant produced in 1977 featuring brown hair and a brown belt. This variation is a specific point of interest for collectors tracking early production differences from the standard issue.
Rarity/Value Note
As part of the original 1977 launch, the value and appeal of this figure are driven by its historical status. Rarity is often determined by the condition of the figure, the presence of the original white vinyl cape and dark blue/black Defender sporting blaster, and the verification of the brown-hair/brown-belt variant. Collectors should focus on the integrity of the paint and the completeness of the included accessories.
FAQ
Q: What is the catalog number for this figure?
A: The Kenner catalog number is 38190.
Q: Which accessories are included with the 1977 release?
A: The figure comes with a white vinyl cape and a Defender sporting blaster (dark blue or black).
Q: Are there any known 1977 variants?
A: Yes, a variant with brown hair and a brown belt was released during the 1977 production cycle.
Q: Who is this character?
A: Princess Leia is the Princess of Alderaan and leader of the Rebel Alliance.