Vintage Starting Lineup Bernie Kosar Action Figure (1988 Kenner)

This is a vintage sports action figure from the Starting Lineup collection, specifically identifying Bernie Kosar, the quarterback for the Cleveland Browns. The figure stands approximately 4 inches tall and is constructed from molded plastic with a high-gloss finish. It features a specific throwing pose with the right hand holding a brown football and the left hand extended for balance. The figure is dressed in a white short-sleeve jersey with the number '19' printed in bold red on the chest, paired with grey and red football pants and white athletic shoes. The facial sculpt is representative of 1980s sports memorabilia, featuring light brown hair and generic masculine features popular in that era. The figure is attached to a solid green oval plastic base via the right foot to ensure stability. Regarding condition, there is visible paint wear on the number '19', small scuff marks on the green base, and slight discoloration on the white jersey typical for an item of this age. This piece was manufactured by Kenner in 1988, which was the peak of the brand's sports toy production. The craftsmanship is standard for mass-produced toys of the late 20th century, utilizing simple articulation at the shoulders and neck.

I have examined the 1988 Kenner Starting Lineup Bernie Kosar figure. Based on the visual evidence, the item appears to be an authentic first-year production run piece. The mold details, specifically the jersey numbering font and the green oval base, are consistent with Kenner’s 1988 manufacturing standards. However, the condition is a significant factor in its valuation; I observe notable paint loss on the '19' chest decal and surface scuffing on the base, which classifies this as 'Played With' condition. Market demand for 1988 Starting Lineup figures remains steady among Cleveland Browns enthusiasts and vintage toy collectors, but value is heavily dictated by the presence of the original packaging and the collectible trading card. As a loose figure with visible wear and missing its associated card, it occupies the lower tier of the market. High-grade, Mint-on-Card (MOC) examples often command $100+, whereas loose examples like this one are common and generally trade at a nominal price point. Critically, a definitive authentication cannot be performed via images alone. To confirm authenticity and maximize value, an in-person inspection is required to verify the '1988 Kenner' copyright stamp on the underside of the base and to ensure there are no professional paint touch-ups or reproduction parts. Furthermore, provenance documentation or a receipt from the original point of sale would assist in establishing its history. Without physical handling, I cannot assess plastic degradation or internal structural integrity.