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Scultures Tao close

SCultures series Mercenary Tao figure close up

There are currently a total of 35 Mercenary Tao collectibles that have been released by numerous companies to date. A gallery and the attached information appends to the official releases and genuine specifics in regards to the additional merchandise pertaining to each release.

AB Groupe[]

Salza coffret AB

Super Guerriers Coffret No. 25 set with Mercenary Tao

  • "Super Guerriers" Coffret No. 25
  • Release date: 1996

The first Tao model was produced as a miniature collectible by French company AB Groupe in 1996 (dated 1989). This series was later re-released by Irwin Toy although the set that initially included Tao was not a part of the re-releases, which meant that AB's release is the only one for the Tao figurines. Others included in this mini figurine set were Super Saiyan Gohan in Great Saiyaman outfit, Kibitoshin, Salza, Kid Gohan, and Chi-Chi.

DragonBalllot Salzaincluded

Super Guerriers Box set figurines including Mercenary Tao

  • "Super Guerriers" Figure Case
  • Release date: 1996

Tao’s original model was re-released in this bundle by AB. The figurines were packaged in a large bundle as a box set with randomized “Super Guerriers” in the series and stood at a very small size, at about 2 inches in height. Unlike many of the other figurines that were also released by AB Groupe, this miniature Tao was never re-released by Irwin Toy in its initial “The Saga Continues” series. Among the mini-figures that came alongside this Mercenary Tao were equally rare figurines of Chiaotzu, Android 15, Salza, Chi-Chi, Kibito Kai, Yamcha, Super Saiyan Gohan (Great Saiyaman outfit), Bulma holding Baby Trunks, Lucifer, Ran Ran, and Kid Gohan, whom were also never re-released by Irwin Toy.

LargeTin AB Tao Lucifer

Large Super Guerriers tin collection including miniature Mercenary Tao figurine

  • Super Guerriers Tirelire tin set
  • Release date: 1996

Also released by AB Groupe was a very rare spherical tin set that included a slew of characters circulating around the tin’s exterior layering. These figurines are on scale with the other Super Guerriers miniatures also released by AB Groupe. A Mercenary Tao miniature collectible was included in this set along with some other extremely rare characters. This is likely one of the hardest pieces to come by in terms of a complete collectible set. Some others included in this gift set are Super Saiyan Goten, Lucifer, Chi-Chi, and Minotia.

Bandai[]

Db02-tao

Keshigomu DB Part 2 Mercenary Tao blue figurine

  • Dorakeshi Keshi-Gomu DB Part 2
  • Release date: Unknown

In the 80's, a series of miniature quarter-priced rubber machine toys was released, much like the Ultimate Muscle series and coming in randomized colors. They are known as Dorakeshi Keshi-Gomu and are rather hard to come by. All characters in this set came in a random color and all of them were very tiny and immobile. Mercenary Tao appears once in this miniature set, although the same mold appears in numerous colors, such as red or yellow. The mini rubber figurine comes with both arms behind his back.

KeshiGomu Tao

Keshigomu Part 3 Cyborg Mercenary Tao red figurine

  • Dorakeshi Keshi-Gomu DBZ Part 3
  • Release date: 1990

In the 90's, a series of miniature quarter-priced rubber machine toys was released, much like the Ultimate Muscle series and coming in randomized colors. They are known as Dorakeshi Keshi-Gomu and are rather hard to come by. All characters in this set came in a random color and all of them were very tiny and immobile. Cyborg Mercenary Tao appears once in this miniature set, although the same mold appears in numerous colors, such as red or yellow. The mini rubber figurine comes with one arm behind his back and both feet in unison. Characters included in the Part 3 Keshi set are Zarbon, Dodoria, Cui, Frieza in his first form, Goku with Gregory, a Namekian warrior, Cyborg Tao, Master Shen, Piano, Tambourine, Sūi, Bulma, Gohan, Muuri, and Great Ape Vegeta for a total of 15 pieces.

MFS-1-tao

Mini Figure Selection series 1 Mercenary Tao figurine

  • Dragon Ball Mini Figure Selection Series 1
  • Release date: 2003

The Mini Figure Selection series volume 1 was released in January 2003 and has included a repertoire of characters from the Dragon Ball series in a nice bronze color highlight. Included in this set is a miniature Mercenary Tao as he lands on his pillar, ready to execute his next target. The assassin is depicted with virtually perfect finesse, maintaining his arms behind his back as the wind fluently flows through his clothes. The miniature figurine is well-crafted and has a distinct bronze coloring scheme, matching the rest of the Mini Figure Selection series set.

Tao-mini-figure-full-color-part3

Mini Figure Full Color Part 3 Mercenary Tao figurine

  • Mini Figure Full Color Part 3
  • Release date: 2004

Mercenary Tao was also included in the series 3 set of the Mini Figure Full Color assortment, released in September, 2004. Each figurine comes with a miniature round black base with a distinct insignia, logo, or sign distinguishing the character's affiliation or origin. Tao is seen atop his pillar with both arms behind his back. Also, the figurine is depicted in the aerial motion, where Tao is seen soaring through the skies. Other pieces included in the same series 3 set are Android 18 and Perfect Cell.

MercTao chara

Chara Puchi miniature Mercenary Tao figurine

  • Chara Puchi “Adventure” series
  • Release date: 2006

The Chara Puchi releases were a nice addition to the previous installations offered by Bandai. In June 2006, there’s also a mini figure set that was released and incorporated plenty of characters from the series run, including Mercenary Tao. In this set, entitled “Adventure,” all the characters came sitting on top of a mini Dragon Ball or another item (such as the Nimbus cloud). Tao came sitting on a Dragon Ball with both his arms behind him and with a miniature base. Others included in this set and also sitting on Dragon Balls are Bulma, Oolong, Master Roshi, Giran, Suno, Emperor Pilaf in his mech, King Piccolo, Goku with winter clothing, and Goku on top of a Nimbus cloud. Also, the initial releases of these mini-figurines came with a small piece of candy.

SuperModelingSoul TenkaichiBudokai Bandai Tao

Soul of Hyper Figuration Cyborg Mercenary Tao figurine

  • Soul of Hyper Figuration Tenkaichi Budokai
  • Release date: 2007

The “Tenkaichi Budokai” volume of the “Soul of Hyper Figuration” series was released on February 28, 2007. Included in this set was a Cyborg Mercenary Tao in a unique posture. One arm is equipped with the cannon, while the other is replaced with a sharp blade. Tao’s hair is seen flowing in the wind as his stance reflects his deadly confidence. He comes with a miniature black base with Japanese writing, detailing his name. Others also included in this set are Tien, Piccolo, Goku, Jackie Chun, Krillin, Yamcha, Chi-Chi, and Kid Goku.

Tao-Soulof bw

Soul of Hyper Figuration Cyborg Mercenary Tao black and white variant figurine

  • Soul of Hyper Figuration Tenkaichi Budokai
  • Release date: 2007

The “Tenkaichi Budokai” volume of the “Soul of Hyper Figuration” series was released on February 28, 2007. The gray (black and white) version of the “Soul of Hyper Figuration” release is the same exact figurine but lacking in the color department. There is, however, more impression placed in the form of shadow outlining, which makes the black and white version equally collectible in terms of design. Like the colored version, however, it also comes with a base to stand on.

MercTao Goku Imag

Imagination series 11 Mercenary Tao, Goku, and Korin diorama set

  • Imagination Series 11
  • Release date: 2007

As the diorama-styled sets continued to be released by Bandai, an original set including Mercenary Tao with Goku and Korin came out in December, 2007. This set was a part of the series entitled “Imagination Figure.” This is a part of series 11 and these figurines stand at about 5 cm (2 inches) and are pretty much diorama sets produced to recreate a certain scene from a saga. Tao is seen riding his pillar with deadly precision as Goku and Korin are seen deliberating their strategy below his devastating speed.

Imagination part11 Tao

Imagination series 11 Mercenary Tao (yellow clothing variant), Goku, and Korin diorama set

  • Imagination Series 11
  • Release date: 2007

The same set included a variant of Tao as a diorama piece. Released in December 2007, this version of Tao had a yellow outfit as opposed to a pink one. This is likely to add an alternate coloring scheme to the collectible value of the characters, as well as offer a chase figure to the diorama sets. As an “Imagination” series diorama set, both outfits make for alternate collectibles. Tao maintains the same expression and model base although the coloring scheme is slightly different.

Banpresto[]

Miniseriestao

Mini Collection 2 Mercenary Tao

  • Mini Collection 2 series
  • Release date: 2004

This set included a few Dragon Ball characters in miniature scale. Tao was included among the pieces in this set and is portrayed with a serious expression as he keeps his feet in unison and both his hands behind his back. Others included in the same Mini Collection 2 set are Ninja Murasaki, Upa, General Blue, Nam, Jackie Chun, Korin, Android 8, Goku with his orange gi, and Goku with his winter clothes. All the figurines come in miniature boxes with their image on front.

Banpresto Historical Figure Android8 Tao Korin Upa Goku vol2

Historical Figure series Volume 2 including Mercenary Tao

  • Historical Figure series Volume 2
  • Release date: 2007

Released on May 14, 2007, Banpresto’s Historical Figure series was a great tribute to some of the characters in Dragon Ball as a bust format. In each volume of this 4-part set, a certain saga was emphasized through the featured characters. Tao is included in the volume 2 set amongst a few others, including Upa, Korin, Android 8, and Goku. Tao's head is tilted to the side as he maintains a serious expression along with mean glare and allows his braided hair to flow in front of his clothing. Each set connects to the other volumes to create an astonishing combination of characters as a complete diorama piece.

Banpresto high grade coloring vol2 tao

High Grade series Mercenary Tao keychain figurine

  • High Grade Coloring Volume 2 keychain series
  • Release date: Unknown

This spectacular Mercenary Tao keychain was released by Banpresto as a part of its volume 2 set. As a High Grade Coloring figurine, the Tao is seen standing atop his pillar and pulling off his severely deadly combat stance whilst maintaining a determined and serious facial expression. As the figurine is designed to showcase a scene of motion, Tao’s clothing and hair are seen moving due to the effect of the strong wind. Also included in this same Volume 2 set are Android 8 holding Goku, Bulma holding a machine gun, Master Roshi in a running position, and Goku on a Nimbus cloud.

Tao Android8 Bulma Roshi Goku

Figurine set with stands including Mercenary Tao

  • Figurine set with stands
  • Release date: Unknown

This very unique set of figurines was released in the 2000s and is a nice tribute to Dragon Ball characters. Banpresto’s initial release of the High Grade coloring series can be seen here as miniature figurines as opposed to keychains. The models remain the same although they are now sported by bases rather than a keyring above them. The set includes Mercenary Tao, who is seen speeding in midair on a pillar. His hands are positioned in a fierce combat maneuver. The stands for the figurines are black and round, connecting to the figurines and allowing them to balance in the air. The figurines stand at 8 cm and are a very nice likeness in terms of the design. Others included in this assortment are Bulma, Android 8, Master Roshi, and Goku on his Nimbus cloud.

Banpresto SCultures TenkaichiBudokai2 2012 c

SCultures series Mercenary Tao figure front view

  • Dragon Ball Kai SCultures Tenkaichi Budokai 2 Series 4
  • Release date: 2012

Standing at 15 cm (5.9 inches) and highly detailed, this figure is likely one of the absolute best designs for Tao’s model sculpts. Very simple assembly is required to fit the figure together and the figure comes with a black base to stand on. Released 2012, this figure is extremely limited and collectible and was a part of the SCultures series that went along with the Series 4 enhancement sets. The box mockup portrays Tao on front with a great deal of impression on the figure and the overall work put into the design. This specific model comes with both variations of Tao’s design, including his Cybernetic enhanced form, which means that he comes with interchangeable hands, arms, and head. The impression placed on both versions is exquisite and on the mark in terms of attention to detail. As a variation, his one arm is pointed in a fighting position while the other has the sharp blade extended outward in his cyborg form and both arms are placed behind his back in his basic stance. Aside from this, there are also two interchangeable bases. He comes standing atop the pillar which he uses to fly through the air and a portion of the tournament arena as an alternate stand as well. This specific model was crafted by sculptor Oonishi Kouji.

Unifive[]

ActionPosing Tao chiaotzu color c

Action Posing Figure series 5 Cyborg Mercenary Tao

  • Action Posing Figure Series 5
  • Release date: 2004

Unifive, a subsidiary company under Banpresto, has released the Action “Posing Figure” series, incorporating numerous characters in pose-able stances. In its series 5 lineup released in August 2004, there’s a nice addition of Dragon Ball characters featured. Other than Cyborg Mercenary Tao (who comes packaged with a miniature Chiaotzu), there’s also Tien, King Piccolo, Goku, Kid Goku with his Power Pole, and Master Roshi (with inter-changeable Jackie Chun head). The Packages are sealed and the items are inserted at random. These figurines all come with pose-able joints and some of their most notable stances from their fights. They are also designed to be standing on top of round orange bases.

ActionPosing Tao chiaotzu bw c

Action Posing Figure series 5 Cyborg Mercenary Tao grayscale variant

  • Action Posing Figure Series 5
  • Release date: 2004

Unifive has also released a grayscale variant in addition to its Action “Posing Figure” series, incorporating numerous characters in pose-able stances. In its series 5 lineup released in August 2004, there’s a nice addition of Dragon Ball characters featured. Other than Cyborg Mercenary Tao (who comes packaged with a miniature Chiaotzu), there’s also Tien, King Piccolo, Goku, Kid Goku with his Power Pole, and Master Roshi (with inter-changeable Jackie Chun head). The Packages are sealed and the items are inserted at random. The variant grayscale version has the same model molds but a different paint job. Aside from this, they all maintain the same design and orange bases. Tao is packaged with Chiaotzu in either version of this set.

Unifive minifigures volume2 Tao b

Mini Figure Volume 2 Mercenary Tao

  • Mini Figure Volume 2
  • Release date: Unknown

Unifive's Mini Figure series modeled as Kubrick-style figurines is composed of numerous Dragon Ball characters, including Mercenary Tao. This basic figurine comes with a red-colored pillar, which it can easily stand on. The figurines are modeled in a cute manner and are very similar to Lego and Kubrick pieces and other figurines of that caliber in terms of modeling. Others included in this same Volume 2 set are Yajirobe, Tien with Chiaotzu, Goku with Korin, Kami with Mister Popo, King Piccolo, Krillin, Grandpa Gohan, Piccolo with Goku, and Grandpa Gohan.

Family Mart[]

MercTao Tien 2008 Budokai diorama

Tenkaichi Budokai diorama series Tien versus Cyborg Mercenary Tao grayscale set

  • Tenkaichi Budokai Battle series
  • Release date: 2008

The “Tenkaichi Budokai” battle series was released in 2008 by Family Mart and featured a diorama set that included the fight between Cyborg Mercenary Tao and Tien. The grayscale diorama portrays the scene where Tien slams his fist into Tao’s gut and knocks him out. Of course, Tao’s expression of complete pain is brilliantly captured in this miniature 2.5 inch set. Also, Tien’s determined and furious strike is completely brought to life as every court of his pulsating muscles incorporates the silent fury of the skilled warrior.

FamMartTienTaoA

Tenkaichi Budokai diorama series Tien versus Cyborg Mercenary Tao color set

  • Tenkaichi Budokai Battle series
  • Release date: 2008

The “Tenkaichi Budokai” battle series was released in 2008 by Family Mart and featured a diorama set that included the fight between Cyborg Mercenary Tao and Tien. The color variant diorama portrays the scene where Tien slams his fist into Tao’s gut and knocks him out. Of course, Tao’s expression of complete pain is brilliantly captured in this miniature 2.5 inch set. Also, Tien’s determined and furious strike is completely brought to life as every court of his pulsating muscles incorporates the silent fury of the skilled warrior.

MegaHouse[]

Merctao goku upa capsulememories march2005 megahouse

Capsule Memories series Mercenary Tao versus Goku diorama set

  • Capsule Memories Part 6 series
  • Release date: 2005

The first MegaHouse series to incorporate Tao was a capsule special edition set released in March 2005. The series, entitled “Memories,” portrayed previous scenes with Goku and others from the original Dragon Ball series. This specific diorama portrayed Tao along with Goku in their extremely deadly scuffle, with Tao lunging and slicing at Goku with his sharp-edge curved blade. In the background of the diorama, Upa is also visible as he witnesses their deadly fight. Goku is seen dodging Tao’s swift strike, which apparently angers the furious Tao further. All the expressions on the characters are perfect as it is synchronized to match the scene from the series.

Part6-2005-merctao

Capsule Memories series Mercenary Tao versus Goku diorama set gold variant

  • Capsule Memories Part 6 series
  • Release date: 2005

MegaHouse also released the same aforementioned figurine set in a gold base as an alternate coloring scheme. Also released in March 2005 as a part of the Memories series, this is the same figurine set that portrays Mercenary Tao attempting to swipe Goku with his sword. As a special gold variant, the production of this set was limited but serves as a nice alternate collectible for those interested in different color schemes.

Tao tien feb2006

Capsule Chronicle series Cyborg Mercenary Tao versus Tien diorama set

  • Capsule Chronicle series
  • Release date: 2006

Another MegaHouse series to incorporate Tao was a capsule special edition set released in February 2006. The series, entitled “Chronicle,” portrayed previous scenes with Goku and others from the original Dragon Ball series. This specific diorama portrayed Cyborg Tao along with Tien in their deadly scuffle, with Tien getting the upper hand by quickly slicing Tao behind him and knocking him unconscious. Aside from Tien’s exquisite motion movement and impression placed on his hand, there is great detail in Tao’s facial reaction, including his enormously painful reaction due to being knocked out. The overall impression placed on his flowing hair and his body quivering in numerous directions makes this diorama piece a great addition to any collection.

Tao gold tien

Capsule Chronicle series Cyborg Mercenary Tao versus Tien diorama set gold variant

  • Capsule Chronicle series
  • Release date: 2006

MegaHouse also released the same aforementioned figurine set in a gold base as an alternate coloring scheme. Also released in February 2006 as a part of the Chronicle series, this is the same figurine set that portrays Cyborg Mercenary Tao being knocked out instantaneously by Tien’s silent but deadly furious strike. As a special gold variant, the production of this set was limited but serves as a nice alternate collectible for those interested in different color schemes.

TaoYurakore

Yura-Kore Figure Series Mercenary Tao

  • Dragon Ball Z Kai: Yura-Kore Trading Figure
  • Release date: 2015

A unique set of spin-top style figurines, the Yura-kore set features 5 display figurines offered by MegaHouse. Scheduled for release on October 30, 2015, these are each highly detailed and feature a blue rotational base. Included in this set are Piccolo in flight, Mercenary Tao atop the speeding pillar, Kid Goku atop his Flying Nimbus, Goku in flight, and a hovering Shenron. The Tao piece holds a serious expression as he speeds through the skies atop his pillar with a gust of wind propelling underneath.

Plex[]

MercTao AnimeHeroes Plex March2007

Dragon Ball Anime Heroes series 1 Mercenary Tao figurine

  • Dragon Ball Anime Heroes series Part 1
  • Release date: 2007

Plex has released an assortment of basic figures in the “Mini Big Head” style. Released in March 2007, this assortment, entitled “Anime Heroes” Part 1 has a wide variety of characters, including Mercenary Tao. This Tao mini figure comes with a basic stance, with both hands behind his back as the ruthless hit man stands atop a pillar. The mini figurines in this set go for a rather adorable and cute look and stand at about 4.5 cm (1.7 inches).

Cyborgtao animeheroes part2

Dragon Ball Anime Heroes series 2 Cyborg Mercenary Tao figurine

  • Dragon Ball Anime Heroes series Part 2
  • Release date: 2007

Plex has also released a follow-up assortment of basic figures in the “Mini Big Head” style. Released in October 2007, this assortment, entitled “Anime Heroes” Part 2 has a wide variety of characters, including Cyborg Mercenary Tao. This Tao mini figure comes with a fighting stance, with his cybernetic arm raised up, preparing to fire a deadly Dodon-Pa blast. The mini figurines in this set go for a rather adorable and cute look and stand at about 4.5 cm (1.7 inches).

MercTao Chopper 2008 plex vol3

40th Weekly Jump Chopper with Tao outfit figurine

  • 40th Weekly Jump Collaboration Series
  • Release date: 2008

Plex has released a cross-fusion vinyl figurine set of One Piece with Dragon Ball as a crossover venture in 2008. The character of Chopper is seen dressed up as numerous Dragon Ball characters, including the villainous Tao. Chopper maintains a hat on all the outfits, but as Tao, he has the “Kill You” symbol as well as the hit man’s original pink garb. On the packaging board, the naming scheme depicts them as “TaoPaiPai” and “Chopper Man.” Also, a picture of Tao is seen on the board backing, portraying him in a confident and determined stance. The series is Volume 3 and the board lining reads “Soft Vinyl Figure” to describe the contents.

Tao Chopper 2008 pvc

40th Weekly Jump Chopper with Tao outfit mini collectible

  • 40th Weekly Jump Collaboration Series
  • Release date: 2008

Another release in Plex’s 2008 repertoire of the Collaboration series is the miniature collectibles set. These come with a tag attached to them, which depicts the crossover characters. Tao is seen on the tag itself in his blasting position. The character of Chopper is seen dressed up as Dragon Ball characters, including but not limited to the likes of Kami, Captain Ginyu and Tao. Chopper maintains a hat on all the outfits, but as Tao, he has the original pink garb as well as the "Kill You" symbol.

Merctaoplush

40th Weekly Jump Chopper with Mercenary Tao outfit plush

  • 40th Weekly Jump Collaboration Series
  • Release date: 2008

Plex has also released the same cross-fusion set of One Piece with Dragon Ball as a crossover in the form of plush collectibles in 2008. The character of Chopper is seen dressed up as numerous Dragon Ball characters, including Tao. Chopper maintains a hat on this outfit, but as Tao, he has the original pink garb with "Kill You" symbol. The plush collectible is slightly larger than the base Collaboration set of figurines also released in conjunction with this series.

Plextao

40th Weekly Jump Chopper with Mercenary Tao outfit strap

  • 40th Weekly Jump Collaboration Series
  • Release date: 2008

Another release in Plex's 2008 repertoire of the Collaboration series is the miniature chara strap set. These come with a tag attached to them, which depicts the crossover characters. Tao is seen on the tag itself as he stands firm. The character of Chopper is seen dressed up as Dragon Ball characters, including but not limited to the likes of Captain Ginyu, Yamcha, Goku, Kid Goku, Kid Gohan with ceremonial garb, Majin Buu, Frieza, Mr. Satan, Piccolo, Kami, and Gotenks. Chopper maintains a hat on all the outfits, but as Tao, he has the original pink outfit as well as Tao's insignia.

Plex popy Tao ultimateTechnique march 2009

Ultimate Technique Mercenary Tao

  • Ultimate Technique series
  • Release date: 2009

Plex has also released an assortment of "Ultimate Technique" figurines, the title given due to the attack stances that the figures come in. Released in March, 2009, this is a chibi series displaying numerous techniques the characters have portrayed in the series. Tao was released in this set with his Dodon-Pa blast emanating from his finger as there is a spark of powerful aura around him. Also, this figurine is unique in the sense that it showcases Tao with complete battle damage, portraying him with his clothing now torn off and with a shoe missing from one of his feet. Tao’s reaction here is also unique, as he is seen screaming his attack prior to unleashing its devastating power.

Hachette[]

Tao hachette number29 b

Hachette's Legend of Manga Number 29 Mercenary Tao figurine

  • The Legend of Manga series
  • Release date: 2009

Hachette has added a great deal of pieces to their appending "Legend of Manga" releases. Included with the manga volumes is a miniature figurine. Included with Number 29 of this wide range of volumes is none other than Mercenary Tao. Released in September, 2009, this piece was no exception to the great deal of detail Hachette has placed on the Dragon Ball manga characters. Tao's pose is that of a martial arts stance and his face reflects an expression of complete determination. Tao's pants are also a unique color here, as they are a dark green rather than purple.

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