He-Man Variations
Masters Of The Universe Heroic Warrior
Manufacturing and Production
Mattel’s He-Man action figure production process was divided into two primary variants for U.S. markets: the Taiwan version and the later Mexico version. Although there are minor differences in hair color, belt paint, abdominal sculpt, facial features, and accessories, the differences are incredibly minimal and were barely noticeable, if at all, to children of the 1980s. The primary differences are noted in the imprinting on the lower back of the action figure.
The original Taiwan eight Masters of The Univers (8 back) action figures had slight differences when they were re-released in wave two after the debut launch. Usually, a simple paint application and armor strap length change was adjusted in production with the (12 back) re-release the following year. Action figures produced in Mexico were manufactured at the MABAMEX factory located in Tijuana, just outside the United States border, south of California. Notably, the MABAMEX factory was approximately 140 miles south of the Mattel’s headquarters in El Segundo, California. Most of the accompanying accessories for the Mexico-marked action figures were made in the US. In addition, international variations can also be found with markings manufactured in Malaysia, Spain, India, Argentina, Venezuela, Brazil, Mexico, and France for international markets.
Below are many, but not limited to, a majority of the He-Man action figure and accessory variations.
Accessory Variants
This action figure was no stranger to manufacturing variations and can be pretty confusing to collectors attempting to match the right accessories to the correct action figure version. Two primary categories seem to be present, with several different Taiwan and USA variations. It would be logical to match the Taiwan accessories with the Taiwan manufactured action figure. We understand that it may be possible the Taiwan production produced the early and original releases while the USA-marked accessories accompanied Mexico marked version. It is common to find several variants of Mexico and Taiwan manufactured swords and battle axis.
The variant can typically be identified with alternative markings, SKU numbers, and slight color differences. Other noted manufacturing changes collectors may find that some of the earlier Taiwan-produced accessories also included an increase in the length of the straps on his chest harness.
Packaging Variations
The packaging for the He-Man action figure on the original product launch did not include the 90-day warranty information. This was later added shortly after the initial launch with updated packaging. With the re-release of the wave one action figures for series two in 1983, the packaging card back was changed to add the additional wave two action figures and include additional illustrations and functionality instructions. The original first launch card back without the 90 day limited warranty text is slightly more valuable and sought after on the current collectors market.
