Slave I (1980) — Collector's Guide
A comprehensive guide to the 1980 Kenner Slave I, the iconic bounty hunter ship from the Empire Strikes Back collection.
Hook
When the Empire Strikes Back toys arrived in 1980, the Kenner Slave I emerged as a standout vehicle. As the distinctive ship of Boba Fett, it captured the imagination of fans with its unique mechanical design, offering a cinematic experience that allowed for both vertical landing stances and horizontal flight patterns.
The Figure
Manufactured by Kenner and released in 1980 as part of the Empire Strikes Back sub-group, the Slave I is a masterclass in vintage toy engineering. The vehicle is designed to stand upright when in the landing position and rotate onto its back to simulate flight, faithfully recreating its on-screen presence. Its design remains a hallmark of the 1980 launch batch.
Accessories & Variants
The Slave I came equipped with a specialized accessory suite to enhance playability. The original packaging included:
- Landing Gear: Locks the ship into its iconic vertical landing position.
- Swiveling Gun: A movable turret for combat display.
- Prisoner Cage: Specifically sized for the carbonite Han Solo figure.
- Sticker Sheet: Included for hull customization.
There are no recorded variants for the 1980 release. The toy was produced with a consistent design, and no official variations are known to exist.
Rarity & Value Note
As a cornerstone of the 1980 Empire Strikes Back collection, the Slave I is highly desired by vintage collectors. Its value is driven by its historical significance, mechanical functionality, and its role as the signature vessel of Boba Fett. While specific market prices fluctuate based on condition and completeness, the vessel remains a prized addition to any vintage Star Wars collection.
FAQ
Q: What sub-group does the Slave I belong to?
A: The Slave I is part of the Empire Strikes Back sub-group.
Q: Does the ship have any known variants?
A: No. There are no documented variants of the 1980 release.
Q: What are the primary play features?
A: The ship features functional landing gear and rotates from a vertical landing position to a horizontal flight orientation.
Q: Which accessories are included?
A: The ship includes landing gear, a swiveling gun, a prisoner cage for the carbonite Han figure, and a sticker sheet.