G.I. Joe Cobra Maggot (1987)

 

Overview

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The Cobra Maggot was released in 1987 as part of G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero and came packaged with the exclusive W.O.R.M.S. (Weapons Ordnance Ruin Mechanized System) operator figure. Combining the roles of a heavy tank and self-propelled artillery platform, the Maggot is one of Cobra’s most formidable ground vehicles and is renowned for its unique dual-mode design.

Its ability to switch between mobile assault and long-range bombardment made it one of the standout vehicles of the 1987 lineup.

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Key Features

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1. Includes W.O.R.M.S. Operator

Every original Cobra Maggot included the W.O.R.M.S. figure, an artillery specialist trained to operate the vehicle’s advanced weapons systems.

The figure was exclusive to the Maggot and remains highly collectible.

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2. Detachable Artillery Cannon

The Maggot’s signature feature is its large removable artillery cannon, which can be:

• mounted on the vehicle for transport

• detached for independent deployment

• positioned as a stationary long-range gun emplacement

This modular design significantly expands its play value.

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3. Tracked Heavy Chassis

The main vehicle rides on a rugged tracked platform capable of handling difficult terrain while supporting the weight of the massive cannon.

Its low-profile design emphasizes stability and firepower.

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4. Secondary Front Turret

In addition to its main artillery weapon, the Maggot features a forward-mounted rotating cannon, allowing it to defend itself while advancing toward enemy positions.

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5. Multi-Figure Capability

The Maggot can accommodate:

• one driver in the cockpit

• one gunner at the artillery position

This makes it suitable for cooperative play and display.

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Fun Facts

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One of Cobra’s Most Realistic Vehicles

Despite its futuristic color scheme, many collectors consider the Maggot one of the most believable Cobra military vehicles because self-propelled artillery systems exist in real-world armed forces.

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The Detachable Cannon Was Ahead of Its Time

The ability to remove the artillery piece and use it separately was a highly innovative play feature in 1987 and remains one of the toy’s defining characteristics.

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W.O.R.M.S. Is an Acronym

The included operator’s name stands for Weapons Ordnance Ruin Mechanized System, making it one of the more memorable military acronyms in the G.I. Joe universe.

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Often Displayed with H.I.S.S. Tanks

Collectors frequently pair the Maggot with Cobra H.I.S.S. tanks and ASP artillery units to create realistic armored divisions.

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The Cannon Is Frequently Missing

Because the artillery section can be detached, loose examples often lack this component, making complete vehicles significantly more valuable.

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Value Drivers

The most important factors affecting collector value are:

• inclusion of the original W.O.R.M.S. figure

• detachable artillery cannon present and undamaged

• complete front turret and accessories

• intact track assemblies

• original decals in good condition

• instruction sheet and original box

• minimal discoloration or broken tabs

Because the removable cannon and W.O.R.M.S. figure are often separated from the vehicle, complete examples command a substantial premium.

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Why Collectors Love It

The Cobra Maggot is widely regarded as one of the best heavy vehicles in the vintage G.I. Joe line thanks to its:

• innovative detachable artillery system

• realistic self-propelled gun concept

• exclusive W.O.R.M.S. operator

• imposing battlefield presence

• excellent compatibility with Cobra armored forces

Nearly four decades after its release, the Cobra Maggot remains a cornerstone of many Cobra collections and is frequently ranked among the finest and most imaginative military vehicles produced for G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero.