The oldest G.I. Joe is the original 12-inch (30 cm) action figure line, which was first introduced by Hasbro on February 2, 1964.
The Genesis of a Toy Icon
G.I. Joe revolutionized the toy industry by creating what Hasbro marketed as "action figures" rather than dolls, specifically targeting boys. This original line was characterized by its realistic depiction of military personnel, offering children a new way to engage with imaginative play.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Introduction Date | February 2, 1964 |
| Original Size | 12-inch (30 cm) |
| Manufacturer | Hasbro |
| Primary Focus | Realistic military action figures |
| UK Equivalent | Action Man (licensed to Palitoy) |
Initially, the line focused on various branches of the U.S. military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines, each with distinct uniforms and accessories. The success of this 12-inch line solidified G.I. Joe's place in popular culture, leading to multiple iterations and spin-offs over the decades. Although the G.I. Joe trademark has been used for several different toy lines by Hasbro, the 1964 12-inch figure remains the foundational and oldest version. In the United Kingdom, this iconic line was licensed to Palitoy and became widely known as Action Man.
