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Figure

Robin

Kenner Super Powers Collection · Series 1 · 1984

Overview

Ayy-yal The second half of the Dynamic Duo will use his Power Action Karate Chop to get out of trouble. Just squeeze his legs to activate his right arm. This action figure comes with a cloth cape, is 4.3° high, has a head that turns, and arms, hips and knees that move. Kids will go for ROBIN in a big way.

Robin rounded out the Dynamic Duo in the first wave and remains one of the more charming sculpts in the line, presenting Dick Grayson in his traditional red, green and yellow costume with a removable yellow cloth cape. The figure's Power Action Karate Chop is activated by squeezing the legs together, snapping his arm down in a chopping motion that suited the acrobatic partner far better than a straight punch. Robin shipped in heavy quantities alongside Batman and Superman, and Kenner's case-pack practices mean he is still readily available today. He is also one of the most frequently found figures with a replaced or missing cape.

Robin's removable cape is a single-layer yellow cloth piece mounted on a plastic collar, matching the style guide artwork of the era.

A 16-page full-color mini-comic was packaged with every carded Robin.

Photography

Photo: Frankie202

Notes

Be cautious with double-sided black-and-yellow Robin capes offered online — those are modern custom pieces, not Kenner originals. The factory cape is plain yellow on both faces.


Sources

Power Action Karate Chop

Photo: Frankie202

Documented Variations

Variations

  • Robin - Series 1 - Slim Card (Canada) - 1985

    Card

    Shell gas stations in Canada ran a promotion resulting in the release of eight characters, including Robin, on slim blister cards, without mini-comic, in 1985. Consumers were afforded the opportunity to purchase one of eight specially carded Super Powers action figures with a fill-up of 25 liters (litres) or more for $1.99 (CAN). Eight figures were released on slim cards, including: Superman, Batman, Robin, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Red Tornado, Martian Manhunter, Firestorm. 

    Overall the 1st series characters tend to show up carded on the collector's market in higher quantities than the 2nd series characters, however assembling a complete set is fairly easy. Larger quantities of the more well known 1st series characters were likely produced, explaining their higher abundance. Collectors have documented finding these slim cards at closeout retail stores like Kay Bee Toys (Playland) and Tuesday Morning. It is widely believed Kenner created this narrow profile to easily fit store checkout lanes, stocking stuffers, or specialized international promotional displays.

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