We first see the Chimney Sweep Super Smurf #40202 in the 1980 Schleich catalogue. Carrying his tools, ladder and chimney brush while wearing grey pants, black jacket and a red handkerchief around his neck. However in actual fact Chimney Sweep with a yellow handkerchief was first sold in the UK in December 1978.
Sold between 1978 to 1998, there are at least four variations.
First version
The first version we can find has the markings W.Germany Peyo (C). This (C) marking can also be found on Trumpeter #20047 which was released in 1974. I don’t think there any any other smurfs with this marking. The Chimney Sweep has a ladder with four rungs and has a red handkerchief around his neck. His pants are also a dark grey colour. Sadly my version is missing it’s brush.
Second version – UK special release
The UK version has the markings W.Germany Peyo (C) and a mustard paint dot. The Chimney Sweep has a ladder with four rungs and has a yellow handkerchief around his neck. In my opinion this is the most sought after Chimney Sweep.
Third version
I have two Chimney Sweep Smurfs that have the same markings W.Germany Schleich S © 78 Peyo. Although one of these has a red paint dot under the foot. Both have a red handkerchief around their necks, light grey pants and carry a ladder with seven rungs.
Fourth version
The last one that was released has the markings W.Germany Schleich S © 78 Peyo CE. This version has a red handkerchief around his neck, light grey pants and carries a seven rung ladder. I don’t have this one.
Recently I was able to get my hands on the UK version. What made extra special it also came with it’s original UK box. Not sure if National Benzole had them separate from the other smurfs for some kind of promotion, along with Skateboard, Bobsled and Nightwatchman. But I don’t care as I now have one.
Keep on Smurfin
Kath B