Did you know there are two versions of Digger Smurf #20043? Both share the same name but are quite different to each other. Schleich never sold the small Digger because they already had their own version of Digger in 1978.
Bully – Digger
The Bully Smurf is small, arms are crossed in front of his chest and appears to be sleeping on his shovel. Sold from 1974 to 1980.
- The mouth is painted red or black.
- Both eyes are closed
- The legs are together
- The shovel is small like the Smurf and has a dark yellow blade with a red handle.
Early versions were made without any markings or with just a © Peyo marking on the arm. Later W.Germany Bully © Peyo markings were added under his feet.
In addition the Bully Digger was used as part of the Waldbauer chocolate promotion. It was made out of a solid dark blue pvc material.
Schleich – Digger
Schleich’s version of Digger Smurf is large and is leaning on angle onto the shovel. Sold from 1978 to 1986, 1994 to 1996 and 1999 to 2000.
- The mouth is painted black
- Both eyes are closed
- The legs are apart
- The shovel is large like the Smurf has a light yellow blade with a red handle
National Benzole never sold the Digger Smurf in the UK. Despite this, Digger was made in Hong Kong. It was distributed into Australia and the United States.
My favourite is the Bully version of Digger because it looks cute and adorable. I also like the early version of Bully Smurfs which are made out of a softer pvc material. However the good news both can still be easily found. What’s your favourite?
Keep on Smurfin
Kath B