WESTMINSTER : Collector Amasses Army of G.I. Joes

Children buy G.I. Joe action figures as playthings. Dave Lane collects the icons of macho Americana and patriotism, keeping them wrapped in the original packaging.

Lane, 25, has a wall in his Westminster home adorned with unopened packages of G.I. Joe action figures from countries around the world.

“You wouldn’t want to open them,” he said. “The packaging is unique and the investment value” is very high.

Shelves in the room are also adorned with more than 50 of Lane’s favorite action figures, all unwrapped.

Lane has been fascinated by G.I. Joe, made by Hasbro Inc., since he was 12. He also collects the newer, 3 3/4-inch figures, which came on the market in 1982. The original, larger G.I. Joe--the first action figure for boys--was born in August, 1964.

Over the years, Lane, a camera operator and college student, has collected more than 1,000 G.I. Joe action figures. Most are tucked away in storage. He favors the smaller figures because of their detail, individual identities and stylized accessories.

Lane said the newer figure has captured the attention of an army of men--and women--many of whom who grew up in the 1980s. “It was a whole different market. It’s an ‘80s-generation toy line.”

For those who want to share their appreciation for the toy, Lane founded the Steel Brigade Club in 1988. The club has more than 800 male and female members worldwide who share the passion and exchange G.I. Joe information.

Lane said this year may be the end of an era for 3 3/4-inch figures. The toy company plans to introduce a five-inch figure next year.

“It’s kind of sad,” he said, adding that the club has been circulating a petition asking the company to re-enlist the 3 3/4-inch figures.

Lane said the discontinued line won’t stop him from collecting the smaller figure.

“It’s in my blood now,” he said. “It’s nostalgic. It’s like being a part of history. G.I. Joe has been one of the most popular-selling boys’ toys, and having a collection makes you be a part of that.”