The M.A.S.K. 40th Anniversary Black and Gold Mobile Defense Unit is turning heads for good reason. This striking update to the original Rhino combines sharp sculpting with premium deco to celebrate four decades of the iconic toyline. Based on official product images from The Loyal Subjects and early previews, this collector’s edition doesn’t just relive the past, it redefines it in high contrast. In this post, we’ll break down the visual details, the included figures, release info, and how it fits into M.A.S.K.’s broader 40th anniversary push.
Release Date: Pre-order opens 8 July 2025 (ships estimated 30 September 2025)
MSRP / Price Range: $150 USD
Edition Size / Production Run: Limited edition, exclusive
Manufacturer / License: The Loyal Subjects in partnership with Hasbro
What’s included in the M.A.S.K. 40th Anniversary Black and Gold Mobile Defense Unit?
From the photos alone, this piece stands out. The Mobile Defense Unit, known originally as Rhino, has been given a complete visual overhaul. The black body, layered with bright metallic gold accents, creates a dramatic contrast that reads more like a trophy than a toy. Panels, wheels, and key transformation elements remain in place, but it’s the finish that elevates it.
Matt Trakker and Bruce Sato return with all-new colour schemes to match the vehicle. The figures, seen in press shots, include long-mask variants and vac-metal helmets, a clear nod to the vintage toyline but adapted to fit the anniversary aesthetic. Their articulation looks solid, and the masks appear to sit cleanly on each sculpt—though we’ll need to wait for in-hand shots to see just how tight the fit is.
Also shown is the Recon Rover, still docking in the rear cargo area and matching the black and gold theme, rounding out a well-integrated set.
The packaging itself looks slick, using black with spot-varnish gold details and branding. It’s definitely made to display, whether you’re keeping it mint in box or popping the hood open for shelf presence.
Pre-order details for 40th Anniversary M.A.S.K. Black & Gold Defense Unit
Here’s where it gets important, this edition is exclusive to The Loyal Subjects. The Mobile Defense Unit 40th Anniversary Black and Gold pre-order, release date & where to buy info is now confirmed. If you want this version, you’ll need to go direct. The standard-colour variant,vred and silver, is the one available through Big Bad Toy Store, not this one.
Pre-orders for the black and gold edition open 8 July 2025 on The Loyal Subjects’ website, with shipments expected around 30 September 2025. No word yet on exact quantities, but it’s being billed as limited, and with a finish this bold, it won’t hang around.
M.A.S.K. at 40: A Quick Look Back
If you’re new to the franchise or just brushing up, M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armored Strike Kommand) debuted in 1985 under Kenner. Its mix of transforming vehicles and masked operatives caught on fast with kids who wanted a little G.I. Joe in their Transformers. The original Rhino was one of the line’s biggest and most beloved releases, doubling as a semi-truck and a combat base, and it remains a favourite for collectors today.
After Kenner was folded into Hasbro, the brand drifted into dormancy, until now. The Loyal Subjects, working closely with Hasbro, is bringing M.A.S.K. into 2025 with modern updates. If you’re interested in how the whole wave is shaping up, check out our full 2025 M.A.S.K. toys pre-order breakdown.
Best 40th Anniversary M.A.S.K. Collectibles – Black & Gold Defense Unit?
Based on visuals alone, this edition makes a bold case. It hits all the right notes, nostalgia, style, and collectability, without looking like a lazy repaint. The sculpt holds true to the original, but the vac-metal masks, premium finishes and sleek presentation give it a prestige feel. It’s showpiece-worthy without veering into gimmick territory.
Yes, we haven’t gone hands-on yet, but if the promo shots are anything to go by, the build looks sturdy and the paint apps are crisp. There’s no obvious sign of the brittleness associated with older gold finishes either, but we’ll be watching closely. (And if you’re concerned, read our Gold Plastic Syndrome Explained post for what to look out for.)
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re revisiting M.A.S.K. after decades or just want something with presence on your shelf, the M.A.S.K. 40th Anniversary Black and Gold Mobile Defense Unit feels like the centrepiece. The figures pop, the vehicle still looks like it means business, and the colour choices give it just enough edge to feel like a proper celebration.
If you’re planning to buy the M.A.S.K. 40th Anniversary Black & Gold Mobile Defense Unit, don’t wait. Exclusivity and demand are likely to collide fast. And from the look of it, this might be the standout among anniversary releases.
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