Those with boxes of childhood toys cluttering up their attic may want to have a rummage through them this weekend, as some in decent condition can reach a small fortune at auction. This comes as a treasure trove of vintage Star Wars toys, gathering dust in an attic for four decades, have been slated to fetch up to £6,000 at an upcoming auction.
The collection boasts 21 pristine figurines – featuring beloved characters like Luke Skywalker and R2-D2 – all still sealed in their original packaging complete with £1.59 price stickers. The crown jewel of this galactic haul is the Yak Face figure from the 1983 film Return of the Jedi.
This camel-faced alien, who was part of Jabba the Hutt's crew, belongs to the legendary 'Last 17' – the most coveted figures amongst collectors. Since this particular toy was never officially released in America, it's become incredibly desirable and is anticipated to command at least £1,000.
These legendary Star Wars toys will go under the gavel at Hansons Auctioneers in Etwall, Derbyshire, on Thursday (July 24). A woman stumbled upon the hoard, which had belonged to her late husband, whilst rummaging through the loft of their Wellingborough, Northamptonshire home.
Hansons' toy specialist, David Wilson-Turner, explained: "The figures came from the vendor's husband's collection. He didn't collect as such, just toys from his childhood that didn't get played with much. She was delighted when we told her how much they were worth."
Every single figure was manufactured by Palitoy in Coalville, Leicestershire, and had remained undisturbed for 40 years. Mr Wilson-Turner continued: "Palitoy secured the rights to produce Star Wars toys in the 1970s via its US sister company, Kenner. At first Palitoy was reluctant to even launch a Star Wars range because no one had heard of the film."
He continued: "But, while America went on produce the franchise's merchandise in the millions, Palitoy's output was more modest, making it all the more appealing to collectors both sides of the Atlantic."
Palitoy didn't just churn out toys; they created unique variants of figures and packaging that were distinctly British. Collectors are particularly fond of the tri-logo packaging, which featured English, French, and Spanish text all on one card.
These items represent a coveted batch of figures, produced during 1984 and 1985, at a time when the fervour for the original Star Wars trilogy was starting to diminish.
The auction also boasts a figure of R2-D2 with a pop-up lightsabre, which is tipped to fetch between £300-£400, an Amanaman expected to command £250-£350, and a Luke Skywalker that could bring in £200-£300.
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