Muscle Men: What's Their Worth?

what are muscle men worth

M.U.S.C.L.E.s, also called MUSCLE men, are small, 2-inch PVC figures from the 80s with an intergalactic wrestling theme. They were most likely released in late 1985 and originated from Japan, where they were based on characters from Kinnikuman, a manga and cartoon series. The value of MUSCLE men varies depending on various factors, including condition, rarity, and buyer enthusiasm. For example, a complete wrestling ring with both figures in fair condition is typically valued at $20, while a mint, unopened box could be worth significantly more. The most popular MUSCLE men are typically the all Flesh versions, with sealed 10-packs selling for around $50 to $75. However, it's important to note that the value of toys and collectibles is subjective and depends on what someone is willing to pay.

Characteristics Values
Type of Figure Class A
Price $20 or less
Most Attractive and Popular $100
4-Pack $15
10-Pack $50 to $75
Hard Knockin’ Rockin’ Ring Wrestling Arena $5 or less
M.U.S.C.L.E. Battlin’ Belt N/A
Satan Cross $50
Fake M.U.S.C.L.E.s N/A
Size 2-inch
Year 1985
Origin Japan

cyvigor

M.U.S.C.L.E. men are small, 2-inch PVC figures from the 80s with an intergalactic wrestling theme

M.U.S.C.L.E. men, also called MUSCLE men or MUSCLE things, are small, 2-inch PVC figures that were released in the late 1980s. The toys were based on an intergalactic wrestling theme, with the name M.U.S.C.L.E. being an acronym for "Millions of Unusual Small Creatures Lurking Everywhere". The toy line included hundreds of different figures and various accessories, such as wrestling arenas and belts.

The M.U.S.C.L.E. toys originated from Japan, where they were based on characters from the popular cartoon and manga stories of Kinnikuman. In the story, Kinnikuman (known as Muscleman in the US) was a wrestling champion who was challenged by other intergalactic wrestlers. The toys were a huge success in Japan, with the manga and toys selling into the millions. Interestingly, in the US, the manga was only moderately received while the toys took off, perhaps due to the popularity of wrestling at the time.

The value of M.U.S.C.L.E. men today varies depending on various factors such as condition, rarity, and the enthusiasm of buyers. Most Class A figures are worth $20 or less, with the most popular ones reaching prices of around $100. The all Flesh versions tend to be the most popular and desirable, with sealed 10-packs selling for around $50 to $75. The French/Canadian version of the 4-pack is considered rare and can sell for a higher price, while open or partially opened 4-packs are considered worthless. The wrestling ring and figures can sell for $20 in fair condition, with the price increasing to $50 if they are in very good condition.

It is worth noting that fake M.U.S.C.L.E.s, or "bootlegs", are usually smaller, made of flimsier plastic, and have a lighter hue, so it is important to be aware of these differences when assessing the value of M.U.S.C.L.E. men.

cyvigor

The price of these figures is driven by their condition and enthusiastic buyers

M.U.S.C.L.E.s, also called MUSCLE men, are small, 2-inch PVC figures from the 80s with an intergalactic wrestling theme. The price of these figures is driven by their condition and enthusiastic buyers.

Collectors tend to value items in good condition, and in some cases, the completeness of a set can also be a factor. For example, a broken clasp on a wrestling ring can significantly devalue the item, with collectors only interested in purchasing it for parts. Similarly, white stress marks on clasps can reduce the price, while a complete ring with both figures in fair condition is valued at around $20. The condition of the box is also important, with a mint, unopened box likely to attract a higher price.

The popularity and rarity of certain figures also influence their value. The Satan Cross figure is a point of contention among collectors, with some considering it a premium, popular figure worth around $50, while others believe it is a standard Flesh figure with no additional value. Being able to identify desirable figures, such as Class A figures, within a larger set can also significantly increase the final price. For instance, within a 10-pack, the Flesh version is the most popular and typically sells for $50 to $75, while the 50/50 and Color versions are generally less valuable.

Enthusiastic buyers can also drive up prices, with individuals occasionally entering the market and expressing a willingness to pay high prices for specific items. However, these buyers may only create temporarily inflated prices, as M.U.S.C.L.E. items tend to return to their historical values over time.

cyvigor

Collectors value sealed Flesh 10-packs, which can sell for around $50 to $75

For collectors and enthusiasts of Muscle Men, the value of these miniature figures lies not only in their nostalgic appeal but also in their potential as collectible items. Sealed Flesh 10-packs, in particular, have caught the attention of collectors, and their value can vary depending on several factors.

A sealed Flesh 10-pack is a coveted item for collectors as it guarantees that the figures within are in pristine condition and have never been played with or exposed to potential damage. The sealed packs ensure that the Muscle Men are in their original, untouched state, which is a significant factor in determining their value. Collectors seek out these sealed packs as they represent the ultimate in collectibility and offer a glimpse into how the figures looked when they first rolled off the production line.

On average, a sealed Flesh 10-pack can sell for prices ranging from $50 to $75. This value is influenced by the current demand and availability of such packs. If a particular series or edition of Muscle Men is harder to find, it naturally drives up the price. Additionally, the condition of the packaging itself plays a role in determining the value. Packs that are still factory sealed and display minimal wear and tear from storage or transportation are considered more valuable.

It's worth noting that certain series or special editions of Muscle Men may command higher prices for sealed 10-packs. For example, if a particular series introduced new characters or had unique packaging, it could become a sought-after item for collectors. Limited editions or collaborations with popular brands or artists could also increase the value of sealed packs.

To ensure you're getting a fair price when selling or purchasing a sealed Flesh 10-pack, it's advisable to research similar listings and completed sales. Online marketplaces and auction sites can provide a good indication of the current market value for these items. It's also essential to assess the condition of the pack carefully and ask for detailed photos if purchasing online.

Lastly, the nostalgia and emotional connection that Muscle Men evoke cannot be understated. For many collectors, these figures represent a cherished part of their childhood, and the sealed 10-packs offer a way to reconnect with those memories. This emotional value can also contribute to the overall worth that collectors place on these items.

cyvigor

M.U.S.C.L.E. toys originated from Japan, based on characters from Kinnikuman

M.U.S.C.L.E. toys, also called MUSCLE men or MUSCLE things, are small, 2-inch PVC figures from the 80s with an intergalactic wrestling theme. M.U.S.C.L.E. is an acronym for Millions of Unusual Small Creatures Lurking Everywhere. They were most likely released in late 1985. The toyline included hundreds of different figures and various accessories.

M.U.S.C.L.E. toys originated from Japan, where they were based on characters from the cartoon and manga stories of Kinnikuman. The basic story was that Kinnikuman (Muscleman in the US) was a wrestling champion, and other intergalactic wrestlers battled him for the championship. Kinnikuman's face was actually a mask that he could not remove. The manga was first introduced in 1979 by Yudetamago, the pen name of the creative duo Takashi Shimada (writer) and Yoshinori Nakai (artist). When Kinnikuman first debuted in the pages of Weekly Shonen Jump, a manga anthology magazine, it was billed as a parody of popular chojin (superhero) staples like Ultraman and Superman. The titular fin-headed hero was an inept, bumbling wannabe who was reluctantly called upon to fight the bad guys when all the other chojin were busy. As the series matured, the stories shifted focus to an intense intergalactic form of professional wrestling, where a revolving stable of surreal combatants with bone-crushing, blood-spouting finishing moves fought it out in the ring.

The Kinnikuman toy line in Japan was not limited to small PVC figures as it was in the United States. It also included many other sizes and styles of figures and toys. The Japanese toy line included what are known as kinkeshi, monochromatic collectible erasers derived from the Kinnikuman manga and anime franchise. The tiny Kinnikuman toys were molded out of a single colour of plastic (initially flesh-coloured) to keep production costs down. This meant that school-aged children could easily buy a figure from a vending machine using loose change, making them an instant hit with kids. With a low price and high collectability quotient, as well as crazy character designs, the Kinnikuman kinkeshi were extremely popular; so popular that it created its own subgenre of toy, known as Kinkeshi.

In the United States, the sequel to Kinnikuman, Kinnikuman Nisei, was translated by 4Kids Entertainment in 2002 and aired from 2002 to 2004. It was re-aired in 2006 as summer filler. Figures, both 6.5" articulated and 1.5" M.U.S.C.L.E.-sized, based on the Ultimate Muscle story-line were released sporadically in 2003, as well as a collectable card game entitled Ultimate Muscle Battle Card Game. Viz Media currently publishes the translated Ultimate Muscle manga.

cyvigor

Muscle mass may increase a man's attractiveness to women

Existing evidence suggests that musculature, particularly upper-body musculature, is a significant factor in a man's attractiveness. Women may perceive muscular men as more attractive because muscles indicate fitness and good genes. Additionally, muscles are a sign of high testosterone levels, which are associated with secondary male characteristics such as a deeper voice and sexual virility.

However, it's important to note that a man's musculature is not a single unit but a collection of distinct muscles that develop independently. While certain muscles like the chest, arms, and shoulders may be considered attractive, women's preferences can vary, and they may prefer a balanced approach to muscle building rather than an excessive focus on specific areas.

To maintain and build muscle mass, men can engage in progressive resistance training (PRT) and consume adequate protein. As men age, their testosterone levels decrease, affecting muscle growth. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can help maintain muscle mass and improve sleep, which is also crucial for muscle health.

It's worth mentioning that attractiveness is subjective, and women's preferences may depend on their self-perceived attractiveness and genetics. While muscle mass can be a factor in a man's attractiveness, other factors like height, bone structure, and body fat percentage also come into play, contributing to a holistic perception of attractiveness.

In conclusion, while muscle mass may be one aspect that contributes to a man's attractiveness to women, it is just one piece of the puzzle. Women consider a range of factors in their assessment of attractiveness, and a balanced and healthy approach to fitness and well-being is likely to be more universally appealing.

Frequently asked questions

M.U.S.C.L.E. men, also called MUSCLE men or MUSCLE things, are small, 2-inch PVC figures from the 80s with an intergalactic wrestling theme. M.U.S.C.L.E. is an acronym for Millions of Unusual Small Creatures Lurking Everywhere.

The two biggest factors that affect the prices are the condition of the toy and enthusiastic buyers. Collectors occasionally witness an individual buyer who is willing to pay any price for any item, which can create unnaturally high prices for a short period of time.

Most Class A figures are worth $20 or less. The most attractive and popular Class A figures may be able to command a maximum price of around $100.

An average 4-pack in good condition will probably sell for around $15. The only 4-pack that is considered "rare" is the French/Canadian version, which is written in French and English.

A sealed Flesh 10-pack will probably sell for around $50 to $75. Open 10-packs might be worth, at most, a few dollars.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment