GI Joe - The Real American Hero

 by: Evelyn Williams

In 1964, Hasbro played with the idea of creating a new toy figure for boys to play with. The G.I. Joe action figures were created with the intention of creating more than just another " green army man". Hopeful that the stigma of boys playing with "dolls" would not take off, Hasbro was pleased when they saw that this toy was going to be very popular.

The original G.I. Joe was a 12 inch plastic figurine, with movable parts. The head had painted on hair, and they donned uniforms that resembled an uncanny liking to realistic uniforms. Hasbro knew that their creation for a new Army action figure would take off well, but was surprised at how many toys they actually sold on the market. These toys were popular among young boys, as they came with a name, rank, and serial number, giving the toy its own identity. Although many boys made it a point that no one called their GI Joe toys " dolls", they seemed to be just that. Like a regular doll, all dressed up for play with little girls as owners, GI Joe's could be dressed up too. The young boys that played with the GI Joe dolls could change the combat uniforms on their GI Joe dolls. The weapons that were used by the action figures could be interchanged with other toy weapons, creating many combinations of dress fatigue and weapons.

There are various forms of G.I. Joe dolls that are available as well. Dolls such as Colin Powell, and Bob Hope have fetched hefty prices on the market. The original G.I. Joe's in mint condition have sold for an upwards of $300.00, while newer collector dolls have sold for almost $100.00 as well. Over the years, the GI Joe action figures have taken on different forms, but one thing remains the same. The love of GI Joe has touched many children, and adults as well. As long as there is a camaraderie among the American people and the like, there will be GI Joe dolls to collect.