Hi, it’s Jeff from Family Legacy Estate Sale, back with another installment in our series of collectible videos. Today, I’ve got a real treat for you as we delve into the world of vintage 1970s Mego Planet of the Apes action figures. Before we jump in, don’t forget to like and subscribe to our channel for more exciting content on collectibles!
The Nostalgia of Mego Action Figures
For those of us who grew up in the 70s, Mego was a significant part of our childhood. Mego Corporation created iconic 8-inch action figures that became a standard during that decade. From superheroes to TV show characters, Mego had a vast array of figures, including a complete line dedicated to the Planet of the Apes franchise, which was hugely popular from the late 60s through the 70s. The franchise has seen a resurgence with the recent movies over the last decade, keeping the Planet of the Apes alive and well.
The Inconsistencies in Mego's Planet of the Apes Figures
The original Planet of the Apes movie premiered in 1968, and Mego released their action figures in 1974. Let’s explore some interesting aspects and inconsistencies within these figures:
Consistent Characters from the Movies
- Dr. Zaius: Here we have an original Dr. Zaius in excellent condition.
- Astronaut U: Complete with his helmet, although no astronaut with this name appeared in the original movie.
- Zira and Cornelius: Both were key characters in the first five movies and were faithfully represented in the action figure line.
Characters Introduced in the TV Show
In 1974-75, a Planet of the Apes television show introduced new characters:
- Burke and Virdon: These astronauts were part of the TV show, not the original movies.
- Galen: Played by Roddy McDowall, who also portrayed Cornelius in the movies, but Galen was a different character entirely.
Soldiers and Generals
- Generic Soldier Ape: Complete with rifle, similar to soldiers in the movies.
- Erko: From the TV series, not the original movie.
- Ursus: A lead general-type ape from the TV series.
These inconsistencies can be confusing as Mego introduced characters and sets from both the movies and the TV show simultaneously, creating a mix that didn’t entirely align with either storyline.
Collecting Mego Planet of the Apes Figures
Despite these inconsistencies, collecting these figures can be a rewarding and relatively affordable hobby. Here’s a general guide on pricing:
- Cornelius: A well-preserved Cornelius without weapons can be found for around $35-40.
- Ursus: With intact leather and minimal wear, Ursus can cost about $60.
Completing Your Collection
For the dedicated collector, original weapons and boxes increase the value. While original boxes are rare and pricey, there are replacement boxes available if you prefer that option. Besides the figures, there were also playsets like treehouses, thrones, battle wagons, and battering rams, though my collection focuses more on action figures than playsets.
Conclusion
Planet of the Apes figures offer a nostalgic trip back to the 70s and a chance to own a piece of collectible history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the franchise, these figures are a fantastic addition to any collection.
Stay tuned for more captivating discoveries from Family Legacy Estate Sale. Until next time, happy hunting!
See you soon! In the meantime, browse the store.
