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Description

Star Wars ROTJ Darth Vader 77-Back A AFA Y75+ (Kenner, 1984). From the Personal Collection of Jacob R. Miles III, a member of Kenner's original Star Wars engineering team, this example represents the most iconic villain in modern cinematic history. Darth Vader was the visual and emotional engine of the original trilogy, and his presence defined Kenner's Star Wars line from its inception. By 1984, the figure had become a cornerstone of the vintage assortment, instantly recognizable in silhouette and central to nearly every child's and collector's display of the era. Few characters carry the same cultural gravity, and few action figures have maintained that level of recognition across generations. Graded AFA 75+ Y-EX+/NM with subgrades of C75 B90 F85. The ultimate embodiment of the Dark Side, offered from the collection of a man who helped build the Star Wars toy legacy itself, this Darth Vader stands at the intersection of pop culture mythology and toy industry history.

More Information: Jacob R. Miles III, often known within the industry as the "Prince of Play," is a veteran toy executive and former member of the original Kenner engineering team responsible for bringing Star Wars from screen to shelf in the late 1970s. Serving as a product liaison engineer during the line's formative years, he worked on the development and overseas manufacturing of the earliest Star Wars action figures and vehicles, including involvement in the engineering phase of the now-legendary rocket-firing Boba Fett prototype. Over a career spanning more than four decades with companies including Kenner, Hasbro, Tonka, and Sega, Miles has remained a respected voice in the toy industry; the pieces offered here come directly from his personal collection, representing the legacy of an individual who helped shape the modern action figure era.


Heritage Auctions provides detailed information when available but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements and photographs are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of facts, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Framed artworks are not examined outside their frames, and additional details from Heritage may be unavailable; therefore, the condition of unexamined works is not guaranteed. Heritage is not responsible for damage to frames, glazing, original boxes, display materials, or for works that have shifted within the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" in accordance with our Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
May, 2026
5th Tuesday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 16
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 303

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% of the successful bid per lot.

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Sold on May 5, 2026 for: $312.50
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