Blue Micro "4-up" of Unproduced Power Droid: Though few people know it exists, this Power Droid "4-up" (show at actual size), really stands out as one of the more charming Micro pieces. It very likely was intended for the unproduced Jabba's Boiler Room playset, which is thought to have been conceived of as some kind of droid torture annex (recall the scene in which our friend the Power Droid gets his toes scorched). The figure's block-like stature and the intricate sculpting of the mechanical details make this one a joy to look at.
You will, however, notice the blue color. As is the case with similar pieces which mimic the look of vintage prototypes, false, blue "prototypes" were generated, either directly from the original silicon molds, or from a new mold taken from an original prototype, with the specific intent of selling them as genuine pre-production items. Actual prototypes for this piece were green and any blue version is a late-80's/early-90's dupe. Over the last few years, information has come to light confirming that Kenner did not use blue urethane for their hardcopies prior to 1989. Collectors should keep this in mind when looking for vintage prototypes, though one must remember that legitimate post-1989 hardcopies will still be blue in color.
Description: Ron Salvatore