1983 Kenner Star Wars Return Of The Jedi General Madine Action Figure

Discover the 1983 Kenner General Madine action figure from Return of the Jedi—a must-have for vintage Star Wars collectors, known for its historical significance and steady market value.

Overview & Historical Background

Released in 1983 by Kenner as part of the Return of the Jedi action figure line, the General Madine figure represents a pivotal character from the Star Wars saga. General Crix Madine, portrayed by actor Dermot Crowley, played a crucial role in the Rebel Alliance's strategy against the Galactic Empire. This figure was among the 31 new additions introduced during the Return of the Jedi series, expanding the total number of Star Wars figures to 79 across the original trilogy.

Design, Materials & Build Quality

The General Madine action figure stands approximately 3.75 inches tall and features a swivel neck, along with swivel joints at the shoulders and hips, allowing for basic articulation. Crafted from durable plastic, the figure showcases General Madine in his distinctive military uniform, complete with a white staff accessory. While the sculpting captures the essence of the character, some collectors note that the facial likeness to the actor is modest. Over time, the materials have proven to be resilient, with many figures maintaining their structural integrity and paint applications even decades later.

Packaging & Longevity

The original packaging for General Madine features the iconic Kenner branding, with a blister card displaying vibrant artwork from Return of the Jedi. The card back includes images of other figures available in the series, enticing collectors to expand their collections. However, it's common for the blister (plastic bubble) to yellow over time, and the card edges may show wear if not stored properly. Collectors often seek unopened, well-preserved examples, as the packaging significantly influences the item's value.

Collector Rarity & Market Demand

Initially, General Madine was not among the most sought-after figures, leading to a relatively lower production run compared to main characters. This has resulted in a moderate level of rarity, especially for mint-condition, carded examples. While loose figures are readily available in the secondary market, finding unopened, pristine specimens is more challenging, increasing their desirability among collectors.

Investment Potential & Value Over Time

Originally sold for $2.99 in 1983, the General Madine action figure has appreciated in value over the years. As of January 2025, loose complete figures average around $18.45, while carded examples can fetch approximately $72.61. Graded, mint-condition figures have been known to reach values upwards of $203.16. The figure's value has seen steady growth, with occasional spikes influenced by Star Wars media resurgences and anniversaries.

Notable Issues & Collector Concerns

Common issues with the General Madine figure include potential paint wear, especially on high-contact areas like the hands and head. The white staff accessory is prone to being misplaced, and finding a complete figure with the original accessory can be challenging. Additionally, the plastic bubble on the packaging often yellows with age, and carded figures may exhibit warping or edge wear if not stored in optimal conditions.

Final Verdict & Rating

• Design & Durability: 3.5/5 (Solid construction with modest likeness)
• Packaging Quality: 3/5 (Attractive design but susceptible to aging issues)
• Rarity & Market Demand: 3.5/5 (Moderate rarity with steady demand)
• Investment Potential: 4/5 (Consistent appreciation over time)
• Overall Collector’s Score: 3.5/5

Recommended for Casual Collectors, Hardcore Investors, Nostalgia Enthusiasts.

Where to Buy & Pricing Information

Currently available at eBay, Heritage Auctions, Collector Retailers.

Price trends indicate steady appreciation, making it a worthwhile addition for collectors seeking both nostalgia and investment potential.