A warped Empire Strikes Back store display bell was successfully flattened to improve its appearance and then sent for grading, which prompted an interesting thread in the Star Wars Displays and Advertising group last week. The discussion centered on when restoration is appropriate for a vintage Star Wars collectible. Topics included restoration, preservation and their impact on the value and desirability of a collectible. Different techniques for pressing a warped display were also discussed including professional paper restoration services. The general consensus among collectors is that whichever technique of restoration is used, it needs to be documented and the information passed on to future owners.

The full thread can be found here:

Further reading on the Archive:


How Significant is Grading on a Unique or Rare Pre-production Piece in a Hyper-condition Conscious Hobby?


Follow the different perspectives on the importance of a grade given to a rare pre-production piece compared to a mass produced toy. And discover for yourself if the unique nature of a
one-of-a-kind piece obviates the need for a grade.

The full thread can be found here:

Additional reading:


A Limelight Worth a Look: Store Displays



Relive the excitement of the vibrant advertising that enamored a generation of children. Joshua Buell limelights his impressive collection of vintage Star Wars store displays in a thread from the Star Wars Advertising and Displays group, featuring over a dozen early and rare displays pictured together.

The full thread can be found here:

Further Reading on the Archive:


A Boxed Set of Kenner’s Earliest Star Wars Store Displays Discovered


Before Kenner had time to create their own store displays, they repurposed the large Star Wars Standees produced by Factors, by applying a blue Kenner label to the base of each one, and shipped them to retailers. For the first time, a set of these early displays was recently found in their original Kenner shipping box.

The full thread can be found here:

Further Reading on the Archive: