A Rare Marvel Toy to Be Auctioned
A unique and highly sought-after Hulk stretch figure, considered one of the rarest in existence, is set to be auctioned. This particular toy is among only 30 known examples of the original Hulk stretch figure from 1979 that are still in circulation.
The toy was crafted by the well-known toy manufacturer Denys Fisher, who passed away in 2002. It comes directly from its original owner, who had requested it as a child. His mother, knowing someone who worked for Denys Fisher, managed to purchase one of the first units off the production line.
This remarkable piece will be put up for sale later this month and is expected to fetch up to £5,000. It includes its original packaging, which has a handwritten “number one” on the flap. The toy is described as being in mint condition, having been kept out of the light and upright over the years.
Jonathan Torode from Excalibur Auctions expressed excitement about the opportunity to offer such a rare item. He noted that the figure has never been available on the market before and is in excellent condition with strong provenance, making it a must-have for collectors. He anticipates global interest in the auction.
The Hulk figure was manufactured in Thorp Arch, Wetherby, and was only sold in limited quantities in the UK through select mail-order catalogues and a few shops. Originally part of Kenner’s “Stretch Armstrong” line, it was later licensed under Denys Fisher in the UK.
Denys Fisher, who also developed the spirograph, grew up in the Leeds area and later lived in Dumfries and Cumbria. The Hulk stretch figure was filled with corn syrup to allow it to stretch, using the same latex and gel moulds as the Stretch Armstrong figure. However, its green skin, Hulk head, and Marvel branding made it distinct from the Stretch Armstrong toy.
Excalibur Auctions, based in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, mentioned that the Hulk figure comes with its original instructions and has never been offered for sale since it was purchased in 1979. The vibrant yellow packaging has not faded, and the original chalk dust on the figure’s surface indicates it was never shaken or played with after production, according to the auction house.
The figure remains pliable, with no signs of degradation in the latex “skin.” It will be featured in the Excalibur Auctions Vintage Toys Diecast Models & Model Railways auction on July 26, with an estimated price range of £3,000 to £5,000.
