📖 Kenner Star Wars figures: reading the markings to recognise an original

Kenner's Star Wars figures (1977-1985) carry inscriptions moulded into the plastic, most often on the leg. They give the copyright holder, the year and the country of manufacture. These marks help to date a figure, spot a copy and avoid overpaying. This guide draws on collectors' lists and on advice from appraisal professionals; if in doubt about an expensive piece, ask a specialist.

1. Look for the inscription on the leg

• On the left leg you usually find the copyright: "© GMFGI 1977" for the first figures (initials of General Mills Fun Group, Kenner's owner at the time), then "© 1980 LFL" or "© 1983 LFL" for those from The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi (LFL for Lucasfilm Ltd.).
• The country mark may be on the same leg or the other one, centred on the leg or closer to the inside: its position varies by model and is not a flaw.

2. Read the country of manufacture

• Vintage figures carry "Hong Kong" or "Taiwan"; collectors' lists also note figures marked "Made in Hong Kong" and others with simply "Hong Kong". The first runs tend to be marked Hong Kong, later runs Taiwan or China, according to an appraisal guide.
• Two copies of the same character can carry different countries and have slightly different materials or tints (for example a darker cape or pouch): that is a variant, not necessarily a copy.

3. Check the accessories

• Weapons and accessories matter a lot in the price. An appraisal guide notes that original accessories often have a slightly matte surface and consistent moulding marks, while many copies are glossier, lighter or heavier.
• The same guide warns against the "float test" for authentication: it is unreliable and can damage the piece.

4. Examine the card and packaging

• Period card stock shows consistent fibre and ageing. Modern inks and adhesives react differently under ultraviolet light.
• A figure on an unopened original blister is worth much more than a loose one, but a re-sealed or re-glued blister is a classic trap.

⚠️ Watch out for

• Prototypes generally have no production markings and may come in unusual colours ("prototype grey") with hand finishing: they are museum pieces, not figures found at flea markets.
• Be wary of "rare" listings without a photo of the markings under the leg: ask for them.
• For a piece worth several hundred euros, have it graded or appraised (for example by AFA).

Sources : Appraisily (guide d'estimation des jouets anciens) · Liste de comparaison de figurines Star Wars (SWCA) · Exemples d'annonces eBay

Updated on Oct 5, 2026. These pointers are indicative and do not replace an expert's opinion: for a valuable piece, have it appraised.