| Rebel Soldier 4-up Hardcopy Paint Master (463-015) | |
| This Rebel Soldier prototype is a
4-up hardcopy for one of the Rebel
Soldiers (463-015) found in the
Hoth Turret Defense playset. It is entirely handpainted and the term
paint master
is used to describe it. Paintmasters were integral in assuring the correct
colors were used for the production toy. The 4-up is cast in a green urethane referred to as
dynacast, which was the most commonly
used urethane for 4-ups. A matching silicone mold can be seen
here.
The photo above shows the other side of the 4-up. In today's prototype market it is essential to be well versed with the materials Kenner utilized for hardcopies during the respective time period of the line. In addition to dynacast other urethanes were used to a lesser extent to create 4-ups. One of these less frequent materials is carbalon, a brownish urethane often associated with early 3 3/4" figure hardcopies. With the prevalence of modern reproduction 4-ups and Blue Harvest 4-ups collectors should familiarize themselves with legitimate examples in order to make educated purchases. |
 | |
| Description by: | Michael G. Mensinger |
| Photo: | Michael G. Mensinger |
| From the collection of: | Michael G. Mensinger |
| Country: | United States |
| Film: | Empire Strikes Back |
| Licensee: | Kenner |
| Year: | 1980 |
| Category: | Prototypes / Micro Collection |
