California Raisins Skateboarder Figurine

This item is a novelty figurine featuring one of the iconic California Raisins characters depicted skateboarding. The figurine is primarily constructed from molded plastic, featuring a deep reddish-brown color for the body of the raisin, mimicking its dried fruit appearance. It has articulated arms, which are black, ending in white gloved hands with distinct fingers. The face of the raisin displays a cheerful expression with open eyes, light blue irises, and an open mouth revealing a white toothed smile. The raisin figure is attached to a bright yellow miniature skateboard, which has four orange wheels, suggesting an approximate scale of perhaps 3-4 inches in height. The character is wearing light blue sneakers with white soles and laces, as well as two thin white stripes on the side. The overall size appears to be small, fitting comfortably within an adult's palm as shown in the image. Although specific maker's marks or a manufacturing date are not visible in the provided image, items like this were popular promotional merchandise, likely produced in the late 1980s to early 1990s. The figurine appears to be in good condition with no obvious signs of significant wear, cracks, or damage. The colors remain vibrant, and there is no visible fading. The craftsmanship is consistent with mass-produced advertising collectibles of that era, featuring molded details for facial features, clothing, and the skateboard components, indicating a reasonable level of quality for a promotional item.

Based on my visual examination of the provided image, this California Raisins Skateboarder Figurine appears to be in very good to excellent condition. The colors are vibrant, and there are no visible chips, cracks, or significant scuffs, which is notable for a plastic collectible of this age. The articulation seems intact, and the details on the face, clothing, and skateboard are well-preserved. Authenticity, based solely on the image, is strongly suggested by the consistent design elements with known California Raisins merchandise from the late 1980s to early 1990s. The craftsmanship is typical for mass-produced promotional items of that era. However, without a physical examination, I cannot definitively confirm the material's integrity or rule out minor repairs. I also cannot verify any hidden maker’s marks or detect subtle variations that might impact authenticity. An in-person inspection would allow for tactile assessment of the plastic, closer inspection for any damage not visible in the image, and a thorough search for manufacturing stamps. Regarding market conditions, California Raisins collectibles generally hold modest value. While they were immensely popular, they were also mass-produced, limiting significant rarity for most common figures. Comparables on online marketplaces for similar single, loose California Raisins figures in good condition typically range from $5 to $15. Factors impacting value positively include its excellent condition and the recognizable skateboarding pose. However, the lack of original packaging significantly limits its potential for higher value. Demand is present among nostalgic collectors and 80s/90s pop culture enthusiasts, but not to the extent that it drives prices exceptionally high. This is a common, though charming, promotional item. Provenance documentation or scientific material analysis would be excessive for an item of this value, but a physical inspection would fully confirm condition and authenticity.