Han Solo - POTF2 [R/G] - 12 Inch Figures (Exclusive)

Kenner produced two 12 Inch Figures exclusively for the United Kingdom at the peak of the Collectors Series line. This happened prior to the line converting or transitioning into the Action Collection branding. The two figures, Luke Skywalker and Han Solo came in Collector Series-like packaging, but the moniker isn't found anywhere on it. Kenner intentionally designed a higher-quality version of Han Solo (in smuggler's gear for their international market, and they did so with an all-new buck. These two new figures have a 1998 date stamp. Han Solo has an interestingly odd, but all=new portrait, which looks as much as Han Solo as it doesn’t. Also exclusive to this release is a “swinging action” action feature. A black lever sticks out from the back (which you depress), and you utilize it to recreate a "quick draw" action with the figure's arms while you hold the rest of the body. The included DL-44 blaster accessory doesn't stay in the hands well, so this action feature forces the gun to go flying often. We’re not into action features, but the new body and the new head sculpt are significant upgrades to what Kenner/Hasbro gave the American collecting community in 1996 with the first Luke Skywalker and Han Solo Collector Series figures. Also, the outfit parts are more refined as well. The fabrics are of better quality and appear more streamlined. And the black vest comes loaded with pockets. The figure has 22 points of articulation, and pose better than Hasbro's American figures. But the action figure may serve as a deterrent to collectors that despise such things. Both the international (UK) exclusive Luke Skywalker and Han Solo are some of the rarest 12 Inch Figures produced in the modern line. American retailers were reluctant to carry them, and aside from aftermarket sites like eBay, American collectors had few options to acquire these figures for their collections. They rarely show up ANYWHERE on the aftermarket anymore.