Episode 25 - The Original Wookiee

Take a rare look at one of the earliest officially licensed Star Wars collectibles: the 1977 Don Post Studios Chewbacca mask. In this episode, I open the box—literally—and revisit the vintage roleplay item that’s been part of my personal collection since the early days of the Star Wars phenomenon.

Stored away since 1983 in its original plastic wrap and a Jack-in-the-Box condiment carton, this original closed-mouth Chewbacca mask is more than a display piece—it’s a time capsule. We’ll explore the legacy of Don Post Studios, the evolution of the mask's design, and the steps I’m taking to preserve it for the future.

From old newspaper stuffing to acid-free tissue paper and archival storage methods, this video is as much about memory as it is about preservation.

Whether you're a collector, a Star Wars fan, or just curious about what a screen-accurate costume mask looked like before the era of mass-market replicas, this is a rare glimpse into one of the galaxy’s earliest and hairiest relics.

🟦 Have a Don Post mask of your own? Ever wear one as a kid? Let me know in the comments below!

📦 Featuring:

1977 Don Post Chewbacca Mask (closed-mouth variant)

Personal storage history dating back over 40 years

Preservation steps using archival materials

Reflections on collecting, costuming, and childhood memories

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