Michelangelo — Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Action Figure (1988)

Michelangelo — the party dude of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — was part of the original 1988 Playmates action figure line that launched one of the biggest toy franchises of all time. Armed with his signature nunchucks, Mikey's figure captures his laid-back surfer personality with a wide grin and dynamic pose. He's the fun-loving turtle who'd rather be eating pizza than fighting Shredder.

The original 1988 Playmates TMNT figures are foundational collectibles for anyone into '80s and '90s toy lines. Michelangelo, being the fan favourite for many kids, was heavily played with — which means finding one in truly excellent condition with tight joints is tougher than you'd expect. First-run figures with the "fan club" offer on the card back (known as the 10-back card) are the most valuable versions.

A complete Michelangelo needs both nunchucks, his belt with the initial "M" (often lost), and the weapons rack accessories that came in the blister. Check the shell for paint wear — the lighter green plastic shows scuffs easily. There are soft-head and hard-head variants from different production runs; the soft-head is the earlier, more desirable version. Carded examples should have a clear, unpunched blister and bright card art. Watch for yellowing on the orange mask paint.