Bone Age action figures have long been the subject of interest among vintage toy collectors. These artifacts from childhood continue to enthrall enthusiasts with unique prehistoric designs and innovative play features. But when exactly were the original Bone Age action figures created?
Unearthing the Bone Age
The story of Bone Age action figures began in 1987 when Kenner introduced this exciting toy line. A departure from their more recognizable lines, such as Star Wars or G.I. Joe, Bone Age was an attempt to merge the allure of dinosaurs with the imaginative play of transformable toys.
A New Era in Toy Making
Kenner’s vision behind the creation of Bone Age was innovative. The toys weren’t merely representations of dinosaurs – but interactive models. Children could disassemble and reassemble the dinosaur ‘skeletons,’ made from durable, bone-colored plastic. This feature allowed kids to mix and match parts, creating their unique dinosaur species.
The Original Bone Age Action Figures
The original 1987 lineup consisted of a selection of ten different dinosaurs, each with a small caveman action figure included to set the prehistoric scene. This pairing emphasized the theme of humans and dinosaurs coexisting, a popular fantasy in children’s media at the time. Kenner offered an assortment of dinosaurs, from popular ones like T-Rex and Triceratops to lesser-known species such as Brontosaurus and Pteranodon.
Unlike many toys in this period, Bone Age did not have an accompanying animated series or movie. There also was no large overarching plot for the toy line. However, the toys were split into three different clans. There was the Stone Clan, the Ice Clan, and the Lava Clan. Each clan had their own unique dinosaurs and cavemen assigned to them.
The Stone Clan had dinosaurs T-Rex, Deiton, Anklor, and Clodus; and cavemen Crag the Clubber, Kos, and Lud. The Ice Clan featured dinosaurs Dynacus, Ptero, and Tritops; and cavemen Nord, Skog, and Tund the Thunderous. Finally, the Lava clan had dinosaurs Brontus, Pleisor, and Stegus; and cavemen Bull, Karn, and Vold the Voracious.
Bone Age’s Legacy
Despite only being in production briefly, Bone Age action figures left an enduring impact. They represent a creative milestone in the history of toy manufacturing, merging education with fun and stimulating children’s creativity and imagination. The line was discontinued in 1988, making them highly sought after by vintage toy collectors today.
In conclusion, Bone Age action figures, with their debut in 1987, brought an innovative and exciting concept to the world of children’s toys. As highly prized collectors’ items today, they serve as a testament to Kenner’s pioneering role in the toy industry. The legacy of these figures, now more than 35 years old, continues to captivate fans and collectors worldwide.
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About the Author
Author: Chris Ingledue
Contact: email
Bio: I am the founder and owner of Wheeljack’s Lab pop Culture and Toy Shop. My vision has always been to reunite customers with their favorite childhood toys and pop culture, triggering fond memories, and reigniting their imaginations. Every day, I work in the “lab” where it’s Christmas 365 days a year. I scour the internet, like when we had the Sears Catalog of yesteryear, for the next great treasure. Then, I await the arrival of the postman as if he were Santa Claus himself and helping collectors worldwide with their versions of Christmas. Every day as a vintage toy buyer is an absolute joy!