If there’s one thing I have learnt from collecting Smurfs is don’t believe everything you are told. Just becuase someone tells you a Smurf is rare, doesn’t always mean it is. The Smurf they were referring to was Hammer #20083 first released by Bully in 1974.
Hammer is unique as it is one of the last Smurfs produced by Bully that can be found with no markings or only © Peyo marking. This version is also typically found with no eyebrows and are made out of a softer pvc material. I have soft spot for these early Bully Smurfs!
In 1975 Bully used hand etched markings under the feet. I have one with this marking which has no eyebrows but though the pvc material is soft it’s different to the first version.
In 1976 Bully changed the mould for Hammer, added eyebrows and changed the markings again. It also appears they changed the blue paint to a slightly darker blue.
Hammer was also produced by Schleich between 1980 to 1986. There was even a version of Hammer made out of Sri Lanka. As there were only 23 Smurfs made out of Sri Lanka, this Hammer version is highly sought after by collectors.
Promo Hammer Smurfs
For Hammer it was used as a promotional smurf by at least three different companies. Though be wary of buying promotional smurfs that only bare the printed mark. Sadly there are sellers out there who attempt to replicate the company’s name or logo.
- Bree Tonix
- Betonix
- Sparkassen
Waldbaur Hammer Smurf
The Waldbaur Smurfs always create much discussion amongst collectors. Waldbaur is a chocolate company from Germany. The promotion inluded some of their chcolate with a solid coloured Smurf in a special box. There were only six Smurfs included in this promotion. Hammer was made out of orange pvc material with black pupils and a white bead of sweat.
With so many repainted Smurfs around at the moment, when looking for the Waldbaur Hammer keep in mind it is made out of soft orange pvc material and has no markings.
Hammer might not have the glitz and glamour of other Smurfs but makes up for it with the expression on his face and the portal of wiping away the sweat from his brough. Cute and adorable is how I would explain Hammer not rare!
Keep on Smurfin
Kath B