Today is the Melbourne Cup, my home town. It’s also a public holiday which allows me to have a bit more time to indulge in my Smurfs.
Before any ride, Horsewoman Smurfette wants everyone to know that she takes her riding uniform very seriously. From the red tailored shad belly coat with yellow buttons, white shirt to match her white breeches. The navy blue helmet with chin strap to her navy blue riding boots.
In her right hand she carries her oversized horse whip and in the left hand she has a brown saddle and light grey stirrups. The stirrups are there to support the rider’s feet while riding and aid them in mounting the horse.
At the same time, Schleich also released #20432 Horseman Smurf. But I prefer Horsewoman Smurfette because she portrays a more horsey character. Maybe it’s the white breeches and riding boots.
Keep on Smurfin Kath B
Rarity Guide
In my opinion, I am going to give Horsewoman Smurfette a score of 3 Papa Smurfs. Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one.
1 Papa Smurf
Not really rare but still worth collecting
2 Papa Smurfs
Rare – but not too difficult to find
3 Papa Smurfs
Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
It’s been a long and excruciating wait for 2023 Schleich Smurfs, but they have finally arrived. Schleich released six new Smurfs for 2023. Like the others made in 2022 these are also from Romania. Firstly, does anyone know what is the theme for the 2023 Smurfs?
I have decided to keep the Schleich tag on each new Smurf. Not sure why as it doesn’t increase their value or improve the look. Or perhaps it’s because it adds a splash of colour when displayed. For now, I am going to write a quick review for each Smurf. These are only my thoughts, which will most likely change over time.
#20839 Dimwitty Smurf
Dimwitty Smurf, is a character from the 2021 cartoon series. But to be honest I am not a fan of these kinds of characters. Just because he takes a little to understand things doesn’t mean he is dimwitty.
Back in early 2023 when I first revealed the name of the new Smurfs to my friend, he thought I was being insensitive. However, once I explained the character it helped put it into context.
Schleich has created a good portrayal of Dimwitty Smurf. A simple design, with nothing outlandish about it. Would I buy another one, probably not.
#20840 Scaredy Smurf
My first impression of Scaredy Smurf is that portrays a frightened Smurf. With his hand held up to his face and his mouth wide open. Again not a big fan of Scaredy Smurf, probably for the same reasons of Dimwitty Smurf.
However, if I was a kid perhaps I would find the character more interesting. With one day wanting Scaredy Smurf to show the others, how brave he is.
#20841 Wild Smurf
On face value, Wild Smurf is close to a perfect Smurf. Great detail with his leaf like helmet, the angry expression on his face, clenched fists and lion cloth. Nothing like any other new Smurfs released of recent times. Yet Wild Smurf is not a new creation, it was first created by Sbabam from Italy in 2016.
#20842 Vanity Smurf
I was pleasantry surprised with Vanity Smurf. Some are referring to Karl Lagerfeld, a German fashion designer with this Vanity Smurf. Unlike previous versions of Vanity Smurf, this one depicts style and confidence.
Wearing black glasses, fingerless gloves and a matching flower on hat, though it’s the hand on the hip that I adore the most. Sometimes called a power pose. Well done Schleich, bring us more Smurfs like this.
#20843 Smurf with Sign (Keep on Smurfin’)
The markings confirm that this one is exactly the same as the 2020 series (#20823 Smurf with Sign). Just a different saying on the board. A little disappointing, though not a complete surprise. In fairness to Schleich, I would imagine they probably sell lots of these. A perfect Smurf for a work desk or a small thank you present.
#20844 Sustainability Smurf
Some are also calling this one – Taking care of Earth Smurf. Likely considered the most popular 2023 Smurf by collectors. From my understanding, it was produced as part of Sustainable Development Goals campaign.
Only last week it was also used on a pedestal for the recent Belgian Smurf Fair. Though it was not official release by Schleich, the pedestal will be highly collectible.
For more on the 2023 Schleich Smurfs check out my previous reviews
Back in 1979 Schleich started making Smurfs in Hong Kong. To cut costs, Schleich would use spray paint on these Smurfs. This included Sunbather Smurf with yellow & black striped bathers and green & black striped bathers. Both sold by BP in Australia and New Zealand.
But did you know there are at least three different marking versions of the Sunbather Smurf made in Hong Kong?
Schleich did also produce a painted version of Sunbather with green and black striped bathers. When looking for differences between the two, look at the back of the head where the Smurf has his hands. Also check the paint finish of the black stripes on the bathers. Lastly the painted version has a cavity number on his back.
In my opinion the Sunbather Smurf sold in Australia was only ever the spray painted variant.
Finally did you know Wallace Berrie referred this Smurf as Sleeping Smurf. Sold between 1979 to 1981.
Keep on Smurfin Kath B
I am going to give Sunbather Smurf a score of 2 Papa Smurfs
Rare – but not too difficult to find
1 Papa Smurf
Not really rare but still worth collecting
2 Papa Smurfs
Rare – but not too difficult to find
3 Papa Smurfs
Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
Do you know difference between Smurf with Bouquet #20798 and Smurf with Flowers #20469 (also known as Bouquet Smurf)?
In 2017 Schleich released the Occasion themed Smurfs, that included Smurf with Bouquet. Holding out with one hand a bouquet of flowers while the other hand is behind his back.
Back in 2001 Schleich released Smurf with flowers. A Smurf carries a huge bunch of flowers, hiding his face.
The biggest and most striking difference between the two Smurfs is their faces. On Smurf with Bouquet his eyes are joined together, whereas Smurf with Flowers has two separate eyes. I really like Smurfs painted with two eyes compared to their eyes painted together. This gives the Smurf more character because of their pupils.
Also in 2017, Schleich changed the design of the Smurfs body to a more scrawny shape. By doing this, it gives you the impression the head is really big and his ears stick out. Even the Smurf’s tail appears to have dwindled in size. It’s at least half the size it was back in 2001. Like many, I was not a fan of this change.
Lastly at least both Smurfs are wearing their customary white trousers and hat. Thank goodness some things haven’t changed.
Can you spot a fake Smurf? We look at the differences between a genuine and fake #20541 Dracula Smurf, first sold in 2006. For example, we have listed 5 things to look out for with Dracula Smurf. Let me know if you of any other things to look out for!
The genuine Dracula Smurfs have their eyes joined together. Where as the fake Dracula Smurfs have their eyes separated.
Check the markings on the underside of the cape. The Schleich made ones are from Germany and not China.
Inspect the quality of the paint colours. Genuine ones are painted with matte colours and not shiny colours.
Similar to the paint colours above, check the edges of the moulding. If buying in person also feel the texture of the mould.
Check if the cufflinks are silver, if not painted most likely it is a fake.
Recently I deliberately purchased a fake Dracula Smurf. It was very cheap and was in good condition. But what I like most is the misspelling of China. On these it shows as Chian. It’s a shame the markings aren’t on the back of head for everyone to see.
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 Smurf
Not really rare but still worth collecting
2 Papa Smurfs
Rare – but not too difficult to find
3 Papa Smurfs
Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
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 Smurf
Not really rare but still worth collecting
2 Papa Smurfs
Rare – but not too difficult to find
3 Papa Smurfs
Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
Back in 2013 Schleich released the Occasion themed Smurfs also known as the Celebration or Gifts Smurfs. Today, I wanted to revisit Valentine’s Day Smurf. This Smurf is carrying a huge lilac heart with a red ribbon on his back. The Smurf has his eyes closed and a huge smile on his face. Along with wearing customary white trousers and white hat.
Anyone who wants to give their partner something different, other than flowers or chocolates I highly recommend Valentine’s Day Smurf. It doesn’t even have to be Valentine’s Day. Simply it’s a nice gift for someone you love. What I like is that it can sit nicely at your work desk or on a shelf to display. Very simple in design without being over complicated.
Sold between 2013 to 2016 Valentine’s Day Smurf has always been popular. As such in 2016 Schleich sold both Valentine’s Day and Thank You Smurf in their own display box referred to Smurfs for You. I never purchased the display box but was keen to get my hands on these Smurfs. Because the Smurfs were made in Tunisia, compared to the original release from Germany.
I also recall back then, some collectors found an error with the markings for Valentine’s Day Smurf. Schleich printed Scnw instead of Schw on the heart, though the marking on the Smurf was correct. I was lucky I have both versions.
In summing up, I like Valentine’s Day Smurf because it will never age. Schleich could have quite easily continued to make this one and mix up the colours of the heart and ribbon. I ask Schleich to consider bringing back colour variations on Smurfs.
Keep on Smurfin Kath
I am going to give this a score of 1 Papa Smurf. Not really rare but still worth collecting.
Rarity Guide
1 Papa Smurf
Not really rare but still worth collecting
2 Papa Smurfs
Rare – but not too difficult to find
3 Papa Smurfs
Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
A long weekend is the best way to indulge yourself with your Smurf collection. Whether it’s buying new Smurfs or rediscovering old ones, spending time with your collection can be rewarding. For me I have rediscovered there are at least four different variants of Cowboy Smurf.
Here is my list of variations of cowboy Smurf, listed in no particular order.
Blue PVC, khaki rope, silver gun in holster, red bandana painted at back
White PVC, white rope, brown gun in holster, red bandana not painted at back
Blue PVC, light tan rope, silver gun in holster, red bandana painted at back
White PVC, beige rope, silver gun in holster, red bandana painted at back
Lastly I want to share an ad from the BP Summer Getaway Guide from 1982. It shows Cowboy Smurf was available for just 99 cents. How many of you recall as a kid getting Smurfs from BP Service stations? Happy days.
Keep on Smurfin Kath
I am going to give this a score of 2 Papa Smurfs. Rare – but not too difficult to find.
Rarity Guide
1 Papa Smurf
Not really rare but still worth collecting
2 Papa Smurfs
Rare – but not too difficult to find
3 Papa Smurfs
Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
Back in 2004 Schleich released eight new Smurfs with a soccer (football) theme. What I liked most about these Soccer Smurfs is that they included a trainer, president of the club and fans. Today, I wanted to bring to your attention Fan Smurf also known as Supporter, only sold for three years.
Wearing a novelty hat and scarf, and waving the team’s flag and blowing on his horn. The team colours are orange and yellow, as can be seen with the scarf and some face paint on the right cheek.
There are two different versions of the face paint. One with the face paint stamped onto the cheek and one with the face paint hand painted onto the cheek.
The face paint is not always easy to spot. But zooming in can help. When the face paint is stamped onto the check, the stripes are more rectangular in shape. Though when hand painted, the stripes have brushstroke effect.
Keep on Smurfin Kath B
I am going to give Fan Smurf, a score of 2 Papa Smurfs. Rare – not too difficult to find.
What is your favourite soccer (football) Smurf?
Rarity Guide
1. Not really rare, but still worth collecting
2. Rare – not too difficult to find
3. Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one
