Preliminary identification

Mego Star Trek: The Motion Picture 12-inch Captain James T. Kirk Action Figure in Box, c. 1979

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a vintage 12-inch scale Captain James T. Kirk action figure manufactured by the legendary Mego Corporation to tie in with the release of the 1979 film, 'Star Trek: The Motion Picture'. The figure features a likeness of William Shatner, wearing the film's distinctive gray and white Starfleet uniform, complete with its original display box featuring iconic movie graphics.

Story

In December 1979, Star Trek returned to screens as a cinematic epic, and Mego was there to capture the magic in plastic. This 12-inch Kirk represents the twilight era of Mego's dominance in the action figure market before Kenner's smaller scale permanently changed the industry. It is a beautiful time capsule of sci-fi history.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1954 by D. David Abrams and Marty Abrams, the Mego Corporation became the undisputed king of action figures in the 1970s by securing licensing rights for popular comic book and television franchises. Their charm lies in their poseable bodies and real cloth outfits, which bridged the gap between traditional dolls and action toys.

Condition & Value

The figure is housed in its original box, which shows some shelf wear, soft corners, and minor warping. The plastic window appears intact but dusty, and the figure's face shows some typical vinyl aging/discoloration. Excellent box condition and unpunched hangtabs command a premium.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.