Mock-Up Stormtrooper Action Figure

This confidential internal Kenner photo shows what is almost certainly the first three-dimensional representation of a Stormtrooper action figure.

This photograph, along with twelve others from this collection, is dated May 10th, 1977, a mere 15 days before A New Hope hit theaters. It is likely this figure was created shortly before that. Considering that it takes a toy company approximately 12-18 months to get a toy from concept to store shelf, we can see how truly behind Kenner was in bringing Star Wars toys to the market.

This Stormtrooper was modified, or mocked-up, from a figure from the Fisher Price Adventure People-- an already existing toy line. Extensive work was done on this figure to make him look like like a Stormtrooper. In fact, the whole head was reworked into the shape of a helmet.

The Star Wars Collectors Archive is proud to ring in 2006 with these never-before-seen photos. Who could have imagined what these few prototype toys would eventually lead to 29 years later. Indeed, these prototypes would form the basis for many kids' childhoods, created a legion of collectors, and revolutionized the toy industry itself.

The other photographs from this collection are of:

Description by: Isaac Lew
Photo: Isaac Lew
From the collection of: Anonymous
Country:United States
Film:A New Hope
Licensee:Kenner
Year:1977
Category:Prototypes / Product Concepts


  


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