#20104 Pirate Smurf

Did you know there are two paint variants of Pirate Smurf? First sold in 1979 by Bully and last sold in 2005 by Schleich.

The most obvious difference with the Pirate Smurf is with the belt. The yellow belt with a black buckle has only Bully markings. The red belt with a black buckle with Schleich markings.

Back around 1981 BP Australia only sold the Pirate Smurf wearing a red belt with a black buckle. Like Wallace Berrie did in the United States. Possible to find both with Schleich and W. Berrie markings.

However, the Pirate Smurf with a yellow belt also has an unpainted skull on his white hat. This appears to be intentional. Whereas the Pirate Smurf with a red belt, always his skull painted black.

Little Things

Like many Smurfs produced over time, slight variations are possible. In my opinion, there are two different things that can make this happen.

Changes to the mould, resulting in different thickness of the sword. Some swords may also have more of a curve than others. It is impossible to know if this was intentional or something to do with the cooling process of the mould.

Or paint specifications at manufacturing. Resulting in different tones of red for the belt or yellow for the hand protection shield. Then there is also paint shading which can vary due to age. For example UV rays can cause fading of darker colours.

Lastly, remember Smurfs don’t tan and wear sunscreen in the sun. If you want to enjoy the most of your Smurfs don’t place them near a window. NO SUNLIGHT!

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Rarity Guide

For Pirate Smurf with a red belt, I am going to give this 2 Papa Smurfs.

For Pirate Smurf a yellow belt, I am going to give this 3 Papa Smurfs.

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
4 Papa Smurfs	Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa Smurfs	Very Rare – a legendary Smurf

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Review: #20140 Secretary Smurfette

Is there such a thing of a Secretary Smurfette with a green pencil? Or a Secretary Smurfette wearing a pink dress with flat white shoes and a dark brown pencil? Are they fakes or prototypes? I ask this because I saw the one with the green pencil in the Der Schlumpf Katalog IV. Along with the one wearing a pink dress with flat white shoes in the 1982 Schleich catalogue.

Firstly, I should confirm that I am no expert when it comes to variations. I am constantly discovering new things, like I did recently with Secretary Smurfette.

Secretary Smurfette is wearing a pink or white dress and white high heeled shoes. Holding a pencil up to her lips and a notepad in the other hand. Typically the version with the white dress has black scribble on the notepad. But someone told me, silver or black scribble is also possible.

However, I have only discovered the one wearing a pink dress, can have different notepads. Mostly the notepads are blank, though some have black or silver scribble on it. Then there are variations of the pencils. From dark brown to orange to light brown.

In summing up, there are so many variations that can be found with the one Smurf. Secretary Smurfette is just one example. Then there is the markings and paint dots for another day.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Smurf Review: #20765 Look-Out Pirate Smurf

Everyone likes a good old pirate story. Today, I wanted to revisit Look-Out Pirate Smurf, one of eight pirate themed Smurfs by Schleich. Only sold between 2014 to 2016 and made in Germany.

Depending on your imagination, Look-Out Pirate Smurf could be on the bow of a ship peering through his gold spyglass (telescope) while pointing his finger to something in the distance.

Wearing a pair of short maroon baggy pants held up by a brown belt with a large silver buckle. Along with a pair of big brown boots. Look-Out Pirate Smurf also wears a blue and white tricorn hat, with a skull engraved on the front of it.

One might think it’s unusual for him not to wear a shirt. Though this was probably done intentionally by Schleich. Otherwise you would not recognise it to be a Smurf. In fact, all the pirate themed Smurfs do not wear a shirt except for Smurfette.

All things considered, Look-Out Pirate Smurf has not aged like other Smurfs produced in the last ten years. I prefer this kind of make believe theme compared to another football theme. ARGHHH! – what do you think?

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

If you want to view through the spyglass at Look-Out Pirate Smurf

Smurf Review: #20091 Skier Smurf

Skier Smurf is holding onto two short ski poles, one in each hand, while wearing a pair of red skis. First sold by Bully in 1977. Back then Smurfs always wore their white trousers and hat. On this occasion Skier Smurf also wore a yellow scarf.

Back in 1977 it was unusual for a Smurf to have plastic add on like skis. Where the Smurf was held onto the skis by two clips on each foot. This was before Super Smurfs existed. The other odd thing was that the markings were on the skis not the figurine. Some say that Bully first made the Skier Smurf with rubber skis. In my opinion this more than likely a prototype because it is extremely rare. I have only seen photographs.

Due to the popularity of Skier Smurf, Schleich continued to sell Skier Smurf until 1990. Though between 1980 to 1984 it had the Bully markings. Check the front for the Bully marking and W.Germany Peyo at the back of the skis. I also find these tend to have thinner ski poles.

Wallace Berrie

At some stage, Wallace Berrie produced their version of the Skier Smurf. Like many of the Smurfs painted in Hong Kong, dark shiny paint colours were used. For example the yellow scarf and the red round disc located at the bottom of the ski poles. The markings are under the skis, not the figurine.

If anyone has information on this version of Skier Smurf, please let me know.

Between 1992 to 1994 Schleich made a new version of Skier Smurf. With thicker ski poles and the Schleich CE markings below the Smurf’s tail. W.Germany Peyo markings are on both sides of the skis.

In summing up, I would like to see more Smurfs made like Skier Smurf. Any Smurf that portrays a sport is a good thing. The last thing, we want is a gaming Smurf.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Rarity Guide

For Skier Smurf – I am going to give this 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
4 Papa Smurfs	Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa Smurfs	Very Rare – a legendary Smurf

Classic Smurf Review: #20002 Normal Smurf

From one mould, Schleich created five different Smurfs with small differences. Starting with Normal Smurf in 1965. Painted blue, with white trousers and hat. His arms are out to the side.

To complement Normal Smurf, two other Smurfs were born in 1965. One painted gold, that we know as Gold Smurf. Instead of white trousers and hat, it had gold trousers and hat. Along with Prisoner Smurf wearing a black and white striped outfit. But instead of a smile, Prisoner Smurf has a frown.

It wasn’t until 1969 when Schleich made two more Smurfs using the Normal Smurf mould. Brainy Smurf wearing black glasses and his mouth more like a round donut than a smile. Lastly Papa Smurf was made. Same body but with a thick white beard added to the face.

Every collection deserves at least one Normal Smurf. It’s a way to say thank you to the makers from Schleich. And of course to Peyo, (Pierre Culliford) the creator of the Smurfs.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Smurf Review: #20431 Monk Smurf

The Monk Smurf is wearing a brown long hooded robe with wide sleeves. Held by a white cord tied around his waist. On his feet are a pair of brown sandals. One could say he is contemplating.

Schleich sold Monk Smurf between 1995 to 2000. You will find the markings underneath his feet. Just the one set of markings. Germany Schleich S 94 Peyo CE. Also sometimes with a black paint dot.

Like a lot of Smurfs sold in the 1990’s each one shows creativity. Each one is portrayed like no other, which makes them unique. Unlike Vanity Smurf for example. If you’re looking for Smurfs, these are worth serious consideration. Some may seem pricey but these Smurfs are less common, especially in Australia. I have also found these are less played with by children. Typically only collectors will go after these ones.

Perhaps the thing I like the most is the Monk’s Smurf facial expression. A smile along with his eyes glancing to one side. Some say, looking sideways can demonstrate doubt. But I will let you decide on that.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Rarity Guide

For Monk Smurf – I am going to give this 4 Papa Smurfs. Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect.

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
4 Papa Smurfs	Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa Smurfs	Very Rare – a legendary Smurf

Smurfette Review: #20410 Smurfette with Mouse

As strange as it looks, Smurfette with Mouse works. The look given by the oversized mouse to Smurfette is like a child looking up to a parent. A large grey mouse with a pink patch on stomach and face looks up to Smurfette adorably. Smurfette wears a simple white dress with pink polka dots and white heeled shoes. Her arm is resting on the back of the mouse. While she looks down to the mouse.

In 1992 Schleich released eight new Smurfs. These Smurfs have now become highly collectible. Each one was a new concept. Some collectors refer to Smurfs sold in the 1990’s, as the New Generation Smurfs.

Smurfette with Mouse, was sold between 1992 to 2000 by Schleich. Readers of the SCCI voted Smurfette with Mouse as the most favourite figurine. Refer to SCCI (Smurf Collector’s Club International) newsletter issue 26 published in Autumn 1992.

Little variances of Smurfette with Mouse can be found. Such as the mouse’s pupils, typically painted black but also white. Or Smurfette’s hair painted a shiny greenish yellow colour. These variances are not always easy to see in photos. I’m still looking for a mouse with white pupils!

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Rarity Guide

For Smurfette with Mouse – I am going to give this 3 Papa Smurfs. Extremely Rare – you’re lucky if you have this one. (especially with white pupils)

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
4 Papa Smurfs	Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa Smurfs	Very Rare – a legendary Smurf

Review: #20759 Gargamel & Azrael

Does anyone out there remember the The Muppets show? Especially the two old men who would heckle the show from their balcony seats? Don’t you think this Gargamel looks very similar to Slater.

The Schleich website’s blurb from 2013 – Gargamel & his cat Azrael are the forever bad guys. But seems like they can’t accomplish anything mean after all.

Schleich released Gargamel & Azrael in May 2013. To coincide with the The Smurfs 2 Movie. But did you know that the picture from the Schleich catalogue is different to the actual one sold. For example, Gargamel has purple patch on the front of his gown in the photo whereas on the figure its white. Or Gargamel’s skin colour legs in the photo whereas he has red socks on the figure. Also Azrael has no tongue in the photo but has one in the figure.

Picture taken from the 2013 Schleich Catalogue

However in the following year, Schleich changed the photo for Gargamel & Azrael to the one that was actually released.

Lastly, for the collectors who are passionate markings. The Gargamel & Azrael figure with the #20803 Smurf house with 2 figures are marked ‘Made in China’ instead of ‘Made in Germany’.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Rarity Guide

For Gargamel & Azrael – I am going to give this 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
4 Papa Smurfs	Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa Smurfs	Very Rare – a legendary Smurf

Smurf Review: #20451 Singer Smurf

For the record, Singer Smurf is having so much fun. Regardless which one you like, both Singer Smurfs are worthy for any collection.

Let’s first look at the regular Singer Smurf wearing a green t-shirt, an orange jacket, black belt with a silver belt buckle and brown pants. Along with white shoes. The microphone has a black base with a red top.

Rock Singer Smurf from the 40th Anniversary set, wears a yellow t-shirt, a black jacket, silver belt and silver pants. Along with black shoes. The microphone has a black base with a purple top.

Both versions also show Singer holding the microphone in one hand and pointing with his other. Looking at his eyes he looks a bit like a dreamer.

Schleich only sold Singer Smurf between 1998 and 2000. In my opinion, Smurfette would have made a better lead singer of the Anniversary Band. What do you think?

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Rarity Guide

For both Singer Smurfs – I am going to give this 5 Papa Smurfs. Very Rare – a legendary Smurf

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
4 Papa Smurfs	Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa Smurfs	Very Rare – a legendary Smurf

If you like to read more about your Anniversary Band Smurfs

Bass Guitar Smurf

Smurf Review: #20450 Bass Guitar Smurf

Did you know that there are two Bass Guitar Smurfs? Both released in 1998 by Schleich, one as a regular Smurf and one part of the 40th anniversary set. What makes them each unique are their paint colours.

Regular – Bass Guitar Smurf

Wearing black pants with a white belt and a red t-shirt. Along with white runners. The Smurf is playing a tan coloured bass guitar, that has white and black details and silver strings. To complement this cool looking smurf is his green wristband. Sold between 1998 to 2001.

40th anniversary set – Bass Guitar Smurf

Wearing silver pants with a white belt and fluorescent yellow/green t-shirt. Along with black shoes. The Smurf is playing a tan coloured bass guitar, that has white and black details and silver strings. To complement this cool looking smurf is his purple wristband.

For those of you who are not familiar with the 40th anniversary set, this was a special celebration limited edition set. The release was to coincide 40 years of the Smurfs – 1958 to 1998. I read in the SCCI newsletter issue 49, published in Summer 1998 that only 20,000 would be available. Perhaps as a complete set, but in my opinion not as individual Smurfs.

Which is your favourite Bass Guitar Smurf?

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Rarity Guide

For Bass Guitar Smurf (regular) – I am going to give this 4 Papa Smurfs. Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect

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
4 Papa Smurfs	Ultra Rare – requires skill to collect
5 Papa Smurfs	Very Rare – a legendary Smurf

If you like to read more about your Anniversary Band Smurfs

Singer Smurf