G.I. Joe Grunt (v1.5) Explosion 20-Back AFA 85 ** POP 9, 2nd-Highest Grade, Only 1 Higher ** (Hasbro, 1983). As the b...

Description

G.I. Joe Grunt (v1.5) Explosion 20-Back AFA 85 ** POP 9, 2nd-Highest Grade, Only 1 Higher ** (Hasbro, 1983). As the backbone infantryman of the original G.I. Joe team, Grunt represents the everyday soldier, steady, dependable, and always in the fight. This v1.5 version reflects the 1983 Series 2 swivel-arm update to the original 1982 sculpt. Offered here on the scarce Explosion 20-Back card, this early 1983 format features "Coming Soon" explosion graphics in place of select figure images, a transitional cardback detail that makes it a key variation for collectors tracking the line's second-year packaging. Graded AFA 85 NM+ with subgrades of C85 B90 F85, this example ranks as the second-highest grade on the population report, with only one graded higher. Grunt doesn't need flash to matter; he holds the line while everyone else gets the glory. Secure this one before he ships out.

More Information: Derryl DePriest is a longtime toy industry executive and pop culture historian who served as Vice President of Global Brand Management at Hasbro from 2001 to 2018, overseeing major initiatives for Star Wars and G.I. Joe during a transformative era for collector-focused product. During his tenure, Hasbro launched key lines including The Vintage Collection and the 6-inch Star Wars: The Black Series, both of which reshaped modern action figure presentation and articulation standards. A lifelong G.I. Joe enthusiast and recognized liaison between Hasbro and the collector community, DePriest later authored Star Wars: The Vintage Collection Archive Edition and has contributed extensively to documenting the history of G.I. Joe. Items offered from his collection reflect the perspective of an executive who helped guide some of the most influential collector-driven brands of the modern era.


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