1985 - Barbie - Original Iconic 80s (AA) - Astronaut - NRFB

Sale price: $303.00
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Regular price: $303.00
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Product Description

Two Years After Sally Ride, Mattel Put Barbie in a Space Suit and Made a Statement the Decade Was Still Catching Up To

Model 2449 is the 1985 African American Astronaut Barbie, released the same year as the Caucasian version and positioned at a moment when the real-world conversation about women in space was moving faster than the broader culture was ready to acknowledge. Sally Ride had become the first American woman in space in June 1983, and Mattel released the Astronaut Barbie in both the Caucasian and African American versions simultaneously in 1985 - a decision that was more deliberate than the toy industry of that year typically managed.

The 1985 Astronaut Barbie is one of the most historically significant releases in the entire Barbie line because it made an argument in plastic at a moment when the argument still needed making. The African American version specifically is among the most sought-after pieces in the serious Barbie collector market, not just for its rarity in the original packaging but for what it represents: a toy company in 1985 deciding that a Black woman in a space suit on a shelf in a toy store was a completely normal and desirable thing, and manufacturing accordingly.

Manufacturer: Mattel
Country of manufacture: Philippines
Model #: 2449
Please note: There is wear to the box - see images
Melody Likes box condition grade: Very Good - View our box condition guide

Delivery & Returns

🚚 Delivery Information

Orders are dispatched within 2-3 business days. Please allow additional time during: Sale events, holiday periods and large restock weeks.

We ship Monday–Thursday only.

📦 Shipping Rates

Parcels under 500g
$10 flat rate nationwide

📏 Please note: shipping cost is based on weight and parcel dimensions. Some smaller items may exceed the flat rate due to their size.

Parcels over 500g
Auckland Flat Rate: $19 | 2–3 business days
Bay of Plenty & Waikato Flat Rate: $13 | 1–3 business days

Rest of North Island from $17 | 2–3 business days
South Island from $22 | 3–5 business days

Rural Customers
An additional $5 charge is applied to all rural orders.

🔁 Returns

All items are vintage, pre-loved, or collectible unless stated otherwise. Please review all photos and descriptions carefully before purchasing.

We do not accept returns for:
• Change of mind
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• Minor wear consistent with age
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Read more about our Return and Refund Policy

Buying Vintage

Buying Vintage at Melody Likes

Every vintage piece in our shop is photographed exactly as it is — what you see in the images is what you will receive.

Our photos are part of the product description, so please take the time to review them carefully before purchasing.

All items are sold in the condition described and shown. These are real pieces with real history, and we think that's part of what makes them special.

📦 Carded & Boxed Items
Vintage packaging can show its age — you may see card yellowing, corner wear, bubble discolouration or light crushing, and sticker residue. The item inside is typically untouched. What you see is what you get.

🤖 Loose Figures & Playsets
Loose vintage figures and playsets may show paint wear, light scuffing, or minor marks from years of storage or play. Accessories are noted in the listing — if it isn't mentioned, it's not included.

🧸 Plush & Soft Toys
Vintage plush can show pile flattening, light colour fade, or gentle wear at seams and features. We note any significant issues in the listing, and our photos show the piece as it truly is.

📚 Books & Paper Goods
Paper ages beautifully — but it does age. Vintage books may show spine wear, light browning, or minor cover scuffs. Any notable marks or damage are called out in the listing description.

✨ Modern Collectibles
Modern collectibles are described with the same care and accuracy as our vintage items. As a recent release, stock or manufacturer imagery may be used in place of personal photography — this will always be noted in the listing.