July 2023

There were 2 posts published in July 2023 (this is page 1 of 1).

Vintage Smurf Review: #20082 Shy Smurf

Shy Smurf is not fancy like others but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth collecting. On the contrary Shy Smurf holds a special spot for those who like Smurfs portraying a personality trait.

This Smurf portrays someone who is timid and shy. With their head tilted down, eyes closed to avoid eye contact and finger over closed mouth. I bet this Smurf feels awkward or uncomfortable around other Smurfs?

Back in 1973 Bully produced Shy Smurf with no markings or with only a Peyo marking on arm. Some say, back in the early days Bully gave away these kind of Smurfs. However, I like their soft pvc material which makes them more appealing compared to the harder pvc material used today. I also own a Shy Smurf that has no markings with an unpainted tail, that makes it extra special.

Shy Smurfs enjoying each other company

By 1976 Bully created a new mould for Shy Smurf. Some collectors refer to this one being slightly taller but apart from that they are pretty much the same. Also Bully included their markings under the feet. 

In 1984 Schleich released their own Shy Smurf, that included their markings. Up until then Schleich could only use Bully marked Smurfs. Some say, this is rarest Shy Smurf to be found.

What Smurf do you best identify with?

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Rarity Guide

I am going to give Shy Smurf a score of 3 Papa Smurfs. Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one.

1 Papa SmurfNot really rare but still worth collecting
2 Papa SmurfsRare – but not too difficult to find
3 Papa SmurfsExtremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
4 Papa SmurfsUltra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa SmurfsVery Rare – a legendary Smurf

Super Smurf Review: #40243 High Diver Super Smurf

This is one of my favourites, High Diver Super Smurf. Wearing red bathers, with his hands held together the Smurf is preparing to jump off the high diving board. Is it just my imagination, but is the Smurf also taking in a deep breath before he dives.

When considering adding High Diver Super Smurf to your collection, there are a couple of things to be weary of. Both Schleich and W.Berrie created their own versions of High Diver Super Smurf.

Hong Kong W. Berrie Co. Schleich S (c) 1983 Peyo

  • Both the Smurf and pool have markings
  • Painted in darker and shiny colours
  • The ladder is typically shorter, measuring 7.4cm high
  • The edge of the pool has two stick plugs for the ladder
  • Smurf is made out of white pvc

W.Germany Schleich S (c) 1982 Peyo

  • Only the Smurf has markings
  • Painted in lighter and matte colours
  • The ladder is typically longer measuring between 7.5cm, to 8cm high
  • The edge is the pool has two holes for the ladder’s stick plugs to slot into
  • Smurf is made out of blue pvc

Therefore a Schleich ladder cannot connect to a W. Berrie pool. I learnt this the hard way.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

I am going to give High Diver Super Smurf, a score of 3 Papa Smurfs – Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one.

Rarity Guide
1 Papa SmurfNot really rare but still worth collecting
2 Papa SmurfsRare – but not too difficult to find
3 Papa SmurfsExtremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
4 Papa SmurfsUltra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa SmurfsVery Rare – a legendary Smurf