1985 Space Shuttle Challenger Plush Toy


from acclaimed artist Margie Smith-Haas

 

This is an extremely rare plush toy that is spectacular in its attention to detail. It measures 32” long by 14” high by 24” wide (wingspan) by 14” high. It has a cotton-like outer skin superstructure, complete with detailed black & white with red & blue trim NASA markings, engine cowlings, wing flaps, cockpit windows and hatchways. On the bottom rear of the delta shaped wings you will find a Margie Smith-Haas scripted signature and information on the manufacturer and date, 1985. This one of a kind collectible was designed to appear in top line toy shops and toy departments (such as FAO Schwartz, Macy’s, Marshall Field’s, Robinsons, etc.) over the winter 1985~86 holiday season. When the Challenger disaster happened (January 28, 1986), stores rushed to take any and all Challenger related items off their shelves to give respect to the fallen heroes, including the 1st ever School Teacher in Space, Christa McAuliffe.

 

Margie Smith-Haas, the designer and custom fabricator, is a very interesting artist in that she specializes in designing and making plush toy pillows of expensive automobiles and sports cars. She not only specializes in Porsche “pillows”, she actually auto raced Porsches, including racing one at the famed 24 hours of Le Mans in France.

 

Margie Smith-Haas custom designed and fabricated items retail anywhere from $150 to $1000. This particular Challenger model is literally 2 to 3 times bigger than her signature Porsche plush pillows. We don’t think it was intended to be a “pillow”, but rather a special collectible keepsake for schools and children of all ages.

 

After almost 25 years, this particular Challenger Space Shuttle plush toy is in excellent shape with no tears, thread separations or discoloration. It would make a great addition to any serious collection honoring America’s ongoing Space Mission and Exploration.

 

Price $2000