The Rarest Darth Vader Action Figure Heads to Action, Featuring Unique Lightsaber Design

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Ever since the first Star Wars movie, A New Hope, came out almost 50 years ago, the action figures have been incredibly popular with collectors. Demand was so high that in 1977, Kenner famously sold empty boxes as Christmas gifts – these boxes were actually vouchers allowing customers to order the first wave of action figures when they became available. Darth Vader was, naturally, one of the characters included in that initial set, and his figure has only become more valuable over the years.

A rare 1977 Darth Vader action figure from Kenner is up for auction at Goldin. This figure includes a unique cape variation and a lightsaber with a distinctive “mushroom tip” handle. As of today, the highest bid is $15,000, and the auction will continue until June 3rd.

A Kenner “Early Bird” Star Wars action figure set – featuring Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, and R2-D2 – is available in another auction. The current high bid is $5,500, and the auction closes on June 3rd.

Why This Darth Vader Action Figure is So Valuable

Early Star Wars action figures featured lightsabers that could extend in two stages, thanks to an inner piece that allowed for a longer blade. However, this design was costly for Kenner to produce and also tended to break, making figures with these lightsabers quite rare today. Interestingly, the Star Wars universe has now acknowledged these early lightsabers, calling them “dual phase” sabers that have an extending blade. Darth Vader’s lightsaber is one example of this rarer design.

This particular Darth Vader action figure isn’t currently fetching as high a price as other versions with the double-telescoping lightsabers. While another Vader figure recently sold for over $130,000, the one being auctioned at Goldin is currently much lower. However, the Goldin auction still has about a month left, and the price is expected to increase as dedicated collectors compete to win this rare item.

The high value of this collectible is probably due to its connection with Kenner’s famous empty box promotion. While many Darth Vader figures have been produced over time, this one was the very first, making it a key part of both Star Wars and toy collecting history. Because these toys are no longer made, they’re increasingly rare. For example, one collector recently discovered their Obi-Wan Kenobi figure (featuring a double-telescope lightsaber) is among just 12 or 13 that have been professionally graded, highlighting its scarcity.

Vintage Star Wars toys made by Kenner are highly sought after by collectors and fetch high prices at auction. Recently, a prototype of the Han Solo figure (wearing a trench coat) from Return of the Jedi sold for more than $30,000. Experts believe a Darth Vader figure could sell for a similar amount, or even more. With current bids already at $15,000, demand is clearly very strong. If you’re a Star Wars fan, it might be worth checking your attic – those old toys could be surprisingly valuable!

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2026-05-06 19:15