Occasionally samples of the old Kenner ALIEN toy from 1979 become available but are strictly suitable for parts stripping. One such sample has just been listed. While the chances of getting this damaged toy standing again are remote, he’s still a good source for valuable parts that can be used elsewhere to restore another figure that may be missing such items. Auction commenced at US$15.99, bidding has already started and there’s no telling where this will end.
Significantly, both legs on this figure are comprehensively mutilated with the right foot completely severed and the left foot present by barely attached. Such damage usually occurs when the figure is dropped and the force of impact transfers through the ankles. It’s a relatively common form of damage but rarely happens to both feet like this. Repairing such damage and expecting this figure to stand upright again is highly unlikely.
Fortunately, it’s usefulness hasn’t expired due to this damage. The legs are easily swapped out and replaced. It’s a simple task to remove the screws on the back of the toy, pry the torso apart and replace the damaged limbs with a good pair. The only problem being of course is obvious. You have to have a pair of decent 1979 Kenner ALIEN legs on hand. Then there’s another way to appreciate the potential usefulness of this figure.
It can be stripped down and used for parts. Again, this is where the true value in these old toys lie. Being able to disassemble them means even semi-trashed samples like this one can still be a good source of parts for multiple rebuilds. It has numerous valuable parts commonly missing or damaged that can be salvaged and used in repairs. The head, both arms, both torso halves and tail appear to be great replacement piece candidates. This damaged sample also includes the often and annoyingly missing dorsal crest still attached to its back. That piece alone may make this figure a worthy purchase for some lucky new owner.
If you’re just missing that one piece, it may be worth purchasing this item, retaining that single crest piece and use it to complete your own Kenner ALIEN. Then resell the majority of the rest of the figure on eBay. Maybe even sell the loose parts. All those items still comprising this toy are sought after. You may possibly break even on the sale and still end up with a complete Kenner ALIEN toy in hand at little to no cost.
-windebieste.
