by Eddie Winkle (NWM Staff Writer)
Belgian cartoonist Peyo created the Smurfs in 1958. Two decades later this original blue group of characters became one of the hottest toy prosperities in the US. Two decades after that, these tiny toys are pretty much gathering dust in closets across the country. Though now might be time to clean ‘em off. Some of these creatures could actually Smurf you some cash. How can you tell? Most of the data Smurf appraisers need is right underneath the foot in the form of strange markings. Here’s what they actually mean…
Year Stamp: Tells you when the actual Smurf mold was created.
Single Digit: If you get a single digit number (specifically 1-8 ), that’s good. It means your mold was one of the earlier ones.
Peyo Stamp: Every Smurf has got one of these creator stamps. Sorta like how the Cabbage Patch Kids were all signed by their real father – Xavier Roberts.
Manufacturer Stamp: Smurfs didn’t have one divine creator. They were split up between 3 manufacturers – Wallace Berrie & Co., Schleich, and Bully.
Country Stamp: Where the Smurf was produced in the world.
Muster Stamp: This is the one to look out for. Any Smurf with an M stamp means they are master prototypes. The highest quality Smurfs that were painted with perfection. As a result, this little toy could Smurf you anywhere from $100 to $300 bucks.
The Smurfiest collection around.
