Not all Kenner ALIEN toys are equal. That’s for sure. Take this forty plus year old vintage sample currently being sold on eBay for US389.99. At first glance, he looks like a nice clean toy without too many problems. A closer inspection reveals many issues making this sample an average condition item at best. 
It has all the common pieces missing that help to define this sample as “average”. Gone are the dome, both tongue halves and the crest between the shoulders. Unfortunately, it’s deficiencies don’t end there. This item has been removed from its original condition in a variety of other ways. Let’s check the list.
For starters, the glow in the dark paint upon the head has been re-coated with the original glow in the dark face paint work covered over. That’s probably due to the original paint being scuffed and damaged. As to whether this newer paint application glows in the dark also? That’s a question you will want to ask the vendor prior to putting down US$389.99 to purchase this item. Additional third party paintwork isn’t restricted to the glow in the dark features, either. I’d be surprised if the coating of the teeth on this figure are original. They lack the luster and shine of an original finish. These, too, appear to have been coated with a new lick of paint. Some evidence present on the lips also suggest this is the case. I’m also suspect the trigger mechanism for the jaw may not function properly as the mandible appears to be sitting lower than it should. That’s another question to ask, right there.
There are other issues here you may wish to be cautious about. One of the quad dorsal posts may be out of alignment and suggest damage inside the figure. One or more of the appendages may have broken free of the internal plate that holds them in place. Another interesting feature is a possible hole slightly above the inside right ankle. Such a hole may be the result of one of two causes. Either the figure was cast with this hole present. It does happen as the leg is very thin in this location. Or it has been dropped. It’s not uncommon for these toys to display such damage and signs of stress discoloring to the blended styrene they are made as a result of such accidents.
Considering this sample displays obvious repair work to the neck – and the seller does document it as having been previously repaired – this form of damage is a strong indicator this sample has sustained some fall damage; and that of course supports the nature of possible damage to the ankle.
Is this item worth US$389.99? Probably not. Nonetheless the seller has put some effort towards cleaning the sample and making it presentable; but be aware, this item is a long way from being perfect as many issues are present. Make an offer on it if you are interested. No box or poster is included in this listing.
-Windebieste.
