Are you looking for the perfect Star Wars Black Series checklist to track your collection? Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the Star Wars universe, a complete guide to every 6-inch premium action figure release is key to curating a standout collection.
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Complete Star Wars Black Series Checklist by Year
2013-2014: The Foundation Era
The inaugural wave established the series with iconic characters that remain highly sought after to this day. Known as the “Orange Line,” the first packaging featured a distinctive orange accent that quickly became a collector's favorite.
Wave 1 (2013):
- Luke Skywalker (x wing pilot) - #01
- Darth Maul - #02
- Sandtrooper - #03
- R2-D2 - #04
- Princess Leia Organa (Slave Outfit) - #05
- Boba Fett - #06
Wave 2 (2013-2014):
- Greedo - #07
- Han Solo - #08
- Stormtrooper - #09
- Obi-Wan Kenobi - #10
- Luke Skywalker (Jedi) - #11
- Anakin skywalker's revenge on the sith - #12
- Chewbacca - #13 (delayed from 2013)
The Star Wars Black Series 3.75" Action Figure: Chewbacca we carry represents the smaller-scale version of this iconic character, perfect for collectors who appreciate both size formats.
2015-2017: The Disney Era Begins
With Disney's acquisition of Lucasfilm, the black series expanded to include characters from The Force Awakens, Rogue One, and The Last Jedi. This period introduced the red packaging for sequel trilogy figures and began incorporating photorealistic face printing technology. The Empire Strikes Back characters remained popular alongside the A New Hope classics.
The Force Awakens Characters:
- Finn (FN-2187) - #16
- Rey (Jakku) - #17
- Kylo Ren - #18
- Captain Phasma - #19
- Poe Dameron - #20
Rogue One Additions:
- Jyn Erso - #21
- Cassian Andor - #22
- Death Trooper - #23
- Director Krennic - #24
2018-2019: Expanding the Universe
As the series evolved, it introduced figures from Solo, The Clone Wars, and Rebels, further enriching the lineup. This period saw an increased focus on fan-favorite characters and deeper cuts from Star Wars lore, including clone trooper variants and expanded universe characters.
Solo Characters:
- han solo (Alden Ehrenreich) - #62
- Lando Calrissian - #63
- Range Trooper - #64
Clone Wars & Rebels:
- Ahsoka Tano - #65
- Captain Rex - #66
- Sabine Wren - #67
2020-2023: The Mandalorian Phenomenon
The launch of Disney+ and The Mandalorian revitalized the line with new packaging and characters. The "Galaxy Collection" mural packaging grouped figures by their source material, creating a cohesive display aesthetic. This era introduced gaming greats, figures, and special forces characters.
The Mandalorian Wave 1:
- Din Djarin (The Mandalorian) - #01
- Cara Dune - #02
- Greef Karga - #03
- Moff Gideon - #04
- The Child (Grogu) - #05
Book of Boba Fett:
- Boba Fett (throne room) - #06
- Fennec Shand - #07
2024-2025: Modern Era Excellence
Recent releases showcase the pinnacle of Black Series quality, featuring characters from Ahsoka, The Acolyte, and other Disney+ series. The Star Wars Black Series 6 Inch Action Figure: R4-6D0 exemplifies this modern quality with premium detailing and accessories.
Recent Highlights:
- Ahsoka Tano (Live Action) - #08
- Grand Admiral Thrawn - #09
- Baylan Skoll - #10
- Shin Hati - #11
- Jedi Master Sol - #12
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What Is the Star Wars Black Series?
The Star Wars Black Series represents Hasbro's premium 6-inch action figure collection, launched in 2013 to cater specifically to adult collectors and serious fans of the Star Wars franchise. Distinguished by their superior articulation, screen-accurate details, and collector-friendly packaging, these figures have become the gold standard for Star Wars collectibles.
Unlike basic action figures, Black Series figures feature photorealistic face printing technology, premium deco applications, and extensive articulation that allows for dynamic poses and display options. The line spans the entire Star Wars universe, from classic trilogy heroes to modern Disney+ series characters, making it the most comprehensive Star Wars figure collection available.
Tips for Starting a Star Wars Black Series Collection
Start with Core Characters
Begin your collection with essential characters like Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, and Princess Leia. These figures form the foundation of any serious collection and typically maintain strong aftermarket value. Consider starting with New Hope characters before expanding to Return of the Jedi and other films.
Focus on Specific Eras or Themes
Rather than collecting every figure, consider focusing on specific trilogies, TV series, or character types. This approach makes collecting more manageable and creates cohesive display opportunities. Some collectors focus on clone trooper variants, while others prefer First Order characters.
Watch for Retailer Exclusives
Many of the most valuable figures are exclusive to retailers. Target, Walmart, and GameStop frequently receive exclusive variants with unique packaging or accessories that become highly sought after. Scout trooper variants and Imperial officer figures often appear as exclusives.
Consider Both Scales
While 6-inch figures dominate the line, don't overlook 3.75-inch variants, such as our Chewbacca figure. These smaller figures offer different display options and often include characters not available in the 6-inch scale.
Track Market Values
Utilize resources such as sold listings and price guides to determine current market values. Early orange line figures from 2013-2014 typically command premium prices, while newer releases remain closer to retail.
Understanding Black Series Variations
Packaging Evolution
The series has undergone several packaging changes that affect collectibility:
- Orange Line (2013-2014): Original black and orange packaging
- Blue Line (2015-2019): Transition to blue accents
- Red Line (2015-2019): Sequel trilogy-specific packaging
- Galaxy Collection (2020-present): Current mural-style packaging
Archive Collection
Hasbro periodically releases "Archive Collection" figures — updated versions of popular characters with improved sculpting and paint applications. These offer modern collectors access to classic characters without paying premium aftermarket prices.
Gaming and Special Collections
The Black Series gaming line includes characters from popular video games, such as Fallen Order, featuring detailed representations of gaming protagonists. Special collections often include battle-damaged variants and unique character interpretations.
Carbonized and Special Editions
Limited variants featuring metallic "carbonized" finishes or special deco treatments create additional collecting opportunities. These figures typically see limited production runs and higher retail prices.
FAQs
How can I tell if my Black Series figure is authentic?
Authentic black series figures feature several key identifiers. Verify that both packaging and figure bases display proper Hasbro and Lucasfilm copyright markings. Genuine figures exhibit high-quality paint applications with clean lines and accurate colors.
Whether it’s a Purge Trooper, a Clone Trooper Attack figure, or one from the Phantom Menace, the packaging should have correct spelling and official Star Wars branding — counterfeit figures often contain spelling errors or incorrect character names. Additionally, authentic figures come with properly fitting accessories and joints that move smoothly, neither too loose nor too tight.
What are the most sought-after figures in the Black Series line?
The most valuable figures typically come from early waves and exclusive releases. The 2013 San Diego Comic-Con Boba Fett and Han Solo in Carbonite set remains extremely valuable.
Original orange line figures, such as the Sandtrooper, Princess Leia's slave outfit, and early Boba Fett, command premium prices. Recent exclusives from The Mandalorian and limited Archive Collection releases also maintain strong demand. Convention exclusives and retailer-specific variants generally appreciate more than standard releases.
What's the difference between the Black Series and the Vintage Collection?
The black series focuses on 6-inch premium figures with extensive articulation and photorealistic details, targeting adult collectors. The Vintage Collection adheres to the classic 3.75-inch scale, featuring vintage-style packaging inspired by the original Kenner figures.
Black Series figures typically retail for $20 to $30, while Vintage Collection figures cost $10 to $15. Both lines offer high-quality sculpting, but the black series provides more detailed paint applications and display-focused design elements.
How do I display my Black Series collection?
Black Series figures work well in various display configurations. Many collectors use Detolf cases or similar glass cabinets to protect figures while maintaining visibility. Consider grouping figures by movie — such as Revenge of the Sith, Attack of the Clones, or by characters like Grand Moff Tarkin — or by faction, like those aboard an Imperial Light Cruise, for thematic displays.
Dynamic poses showcase the figures' articulation — use flight stands for aerial characters and diorama backgrounds for enhanced visual impact. Protect your collection by shielding it from sunlight and periodically adjusting figure poses to prevent stiff joints.
Are there any upcoming releases I should be on the lookout for?
Hasbro regularly announces new figures through its Pulse platform and fan events. Upcoming releases are typically expected to include characters from the current Disney+ series, with figures from The Acolyte and Skeleton Crew anticipated. Archive Collection re-releases of popular characters like Darth Revan and Mara Jade continue periodically. Convention exclusives and retailer partnerships also provide special variants throughout the year.
How should I care for my Black Series figures?
Proper care extends the lifespan of the collection, such as the Black Series 6 figure, and maintains value. Store figures in climate-controlled environments to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity.
Whether it's a Jedha Patrol trooper, a Dark Times Vader, a Jedi Legend, or a Sith Trooper, dust regularly with soft brushes or compressed air, for loose figures, occasionally move the joints to prevent stiffening. Keep carded figures in protective cases and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight. When posing figures, move joints gradually to avoid stress marks or breakage.
Key Takeaways
Building a comprehensive Star Wars Black Series collection requires patience, research, and strategic planning. Focus on characters that resonate with your personal Star Wars preferences — whether it’s Obi Wan Kenobi Revenge, Phase II Armor troopers, or an Order Stormtrooper — while keeping an eye on market trends and exclusive releases.
The Star Wars Black Series checklist continues to evolve with the addition of new characters from expanding Disney+ content, including figures tied to scenes aboard the Imperial Light Cruiser, making it an exciting time for collectors.
Remember that collecting should be enjoyable first and investment-focused second. Whether you're seeking the perfect Darth Vader figure, tracking down a First Order Officer, or hunting for rare early releases, the journey of building your collection often provides as much satisfaction as the final display.
Start with core characters, expand into your favorite eras, and don't overlook modern releases that showcase the current pinnacle of action figure technology. With proper care and strategic collecting, your Star Wars Black Series collection will provide years of enjoyment and potentially strong investment returns.
Visit our Star Wars collection to explore current availability and discover your next must-have figure. May the Force be with you on your collecting journey!
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Citations:
[1] https://galacticfigures.com/star-wars-figures.aspx?type=toyline&typeName=6BS
[2] https://www.aussiesyficollectables.com.au/blogs/toy-news-blog/17618-a-comprehensive-guide-to-collecting-star-wars-black-series-figures-in-australia
