Early vs. late 8-Backs

Collecting LJN ThunderCats Toys
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Disclaimer: My opinions are just that – Opinions. I have done extensive research on Vintage Thundercats to include different producers, different distributers, and various variations. I hope that the information I provide helps other collectors in finding their “holy grail”.

It has become extremely apparent that (although sometimes small) there is a distinct difference between early and late 8 backs. The most noticeable difference will be the mini catalog. The later 8 backs have the mini catalog. You can also tell by the assortment number.

Villains – Early (3515) Late (3545)
Heroes – Early (3500) Late (3545)

And of course you have the “energizer” Lion-O and Mumm-Ra (3527)

Attached is an example of and early and late Monkian, notice the early version has the red chain. There are seems to be differences for many of the characters, both Cheetara and Tygra were available early with or without companion, later they could only be found with companion (until the 14 backs came out) There are various variations of Lion-O and Mumm-Ra both early and late, and this Monkian. My theory is that early Slithe and Jackalman may also have slight variations.

Please feel free to discuss your thought on this subject

pk1.jpg

$(KGrHqMOKpIE3tbWfed0BN7nPJdCMw12.JPG

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That red chain monkian is one of my biggest regrets in thundercats collecting. I was kind of not collecting at the time i saw it and then let it pass on auction. I kick myself every time i think of that piece. oh well such is life someday ill track down another one.

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Has anyone seen a Cheetara with companion on a 3500 series card or a Monkian with a black chained mace on a 3515 series card?

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I have seen a few Slithe variations (red eye, brown spots) but dont know if they are early 8 backs or from outside the USA. Great Monkian:thumbsup:

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The easiest way to tell is the photos on the back - if they have the prototype weapons, its an early *-Back versus the normal weapons.