Welcome to The National Black Toy Museum

Preserving and celebrating the legacy of Black toys, culture, and creativity.

National Black Toy Museum Visual Journey Through Black Toy History

Bulletproof

Hasbro

1988

Bulletproof was the fearless leader of C.O.P.S. (Central Organization of Police Specialists) a late-1980s action figure line and Saturday morning cartoon that blended law enforcement and sci-fi heroics . Recognizable by his bullet-shaped helmet and commanding presence , Bulletproof stood as a symbol of justice ⚖️,

strength 🦾, discipline 🎯, and the idea that heroes protect

Christie (1968)

Barbie’s first Black friend and one of the most important figures in Barbie history. Introduced in 1968, Christie appeared for decades in multiple careers and fashions, helping pave the way for greater representation in mainstream toys. Her presence allowed generations of children to see Black beauty, confidence, and ambition reflected in play.

1985 African American Cabbage Patch Kids Doll

Brand: Coleco

In 1985, Cabbage Patch Kids made history by introducing officially produced African American dolls, giving Black children the chance to see themselves reflected in one of the most iconic toy lines of all time. These dolls weren’t just toys, they were a powerful step toward representation in mainstream play, celebrating Black identity, joy,

HotWing from SilverHawks

Released in 1986 by Kenner, HotWing became one of the standout heroes of the SilverHawks toy line. Known for his speed, precision, and leadership in the skies of Limbo, HotWing also possessed the incredible ability to travel through time, giving him an edge in protecting past, present, and future worlds.

William “Refrigerator” Perry G.I. Joe Action Figure 1987. Hasbro turned NFL legend and Chicago Bears star Perry into the first real life professional athlete to join the G.I. Joe team. Dressed in gear inspired by his iconic number 72 jersey and armed with a football shaped mace, this mail away exclusive became a cultural crossover celebrating Black excellence in sports and toys.

1980 Black Barbie, designed by Kitty Black Perkins broke barriers celebrating Black beauty.

In 1980, Black Barbie made history as the first doll to carry the official Barbie name while authentically representing Black beauty and culture. Designed by Kitty Black Perkins, she featured rich brown skin, an Afro hairstyle, and unique facial features. Her debut marked a major shift from reworked dolls to true representation in mainstream toys.

National Black Toy Museum Classic Media Collection

So In Style Barbie Mattel

William “Refrigerator” Perry G.I. Joe Action Figure (1987)

Created by designer Stacey McBride-Irby, Mattel’s So In Style Barbie line redefined representation in dolls. Featuring diverse skin tones, natural hairstyles, and fashion inspired by real Black culture, the line empowered Black girls to see themselves reflected in play while celebrating confidence, identity, and modern Black excellence.

William “Refrigerator” Perry G.I. Joe Action Figure (1987)

In 1987, Hasbro made history by turning NFL legend William “Refrigerator” Perry into a G.I. Joe figure, the first real-life pro athlete to join the line. Featuring his #72 jersey and football mace, this mail-away exclusive celebrated Black excellence, proving heroes come in all forms, on and off the field.

Mr. T Action Figure

William “Refrigerator” Perry G.I. Joe Action Figure (1987)

C.O.P.S. (Central Organization of Police Specialists)

Mr. T Action Figure

Galoob

Released in the 1980s, Galoob’s Mr. T action figure captured the larger than life persona of the pop culture icon made famous by The A Team and Rocky III. Featuring his signature mohawk, gold chains, and commanding presence, the figure celebrated Black strength, confidence, and visibility during a defining era in toy and television history.

C.O.P.S. (Central Organization of Police Specialists)

C.O.P.S. was a 1988 futuristic animated series and Hasbro toy line centered on elite law-enforcement heroes battling high-tech crime. The team is led by Bulletproof, a groundbreaking African American hero whose silver faceplate symbolizes resilience and leadership. The cartoon blended sci-fi action with collectible figures, leaving a lasting impact on 80s pop culture and toy history.

Blaster Transformers Action Figure

C.O.P.S. (Central Organization of Police Specialists)

Blaster Transformers Action Figure

Brand Hasbro

Year 1984

Blaster is the music loving Autobot who transforms from robot to boombox and serves as the Autobots’ communications expert. Released by Hasbro in 1984 Blaster became a fan favorite for his style and personality. In the animated series he was voiced by Buster Jones a pioneering Black voice actor in classic animation history.

Shani Barbie by Mattel

C.O.P.S. (Central Organization of Police Specialists)

Blaster Transformers Action Figure

Shani Barbie by Mattel debuted in 1990 as part of the Marvelous World of Shani line. Created to celebrate authentic Black beauty, culture, and fashion, Shani featured natural hairstyles, rich skin tones, and Afrocentric style. She remains a powerful symbol of representation and pride in Black toy history.

Welcome to The National Black Toy Museum

Celebrating Black toys and the visionary creators behind them

Celebrating Black toys and the visionary creators behind them

Celebrating Black toys and the visionary creators behind them

Celebrating Black toys and the visionary creators behind them

Celebrating Black toys and the visionary creators behind them

Celebrating Black toys and the visionary creators behind them

Our Mission

National Black Toy Museum Visual Journey Through Black Toy History

Black Toy Creators