I too find it a bit odd and disappointing that Playmobil USA is re-releasing these Specials. The only thing I can think of is that they will be releasing new Specials a year behind Germany like they do with their regular sets.
Hope your dog is mending fast Richard!
I agree with Justindo, I think the six "re-released" specials are a stopgap to allow the specials to drop back a year on release in some countries (I forget, is it everywhere outside Germany?). At least that's what I'm hoping for, because it'd be a real shame (and Marketing Insanity) to stop doing specials in the US.
As to how they selected this six? They're an odd set, but not without customising potential.
The 4665 Cowboy was a great Special because he had so much kit, and provided grey hair and beard for making customs. I hot several just for the extras, and his chaps are useful too.
The 4667 Magician though, how many does any one person need? Actually I bought about a dozen to create my Morris Dancing Side, because I wanted the hankies and the top hats. I do have a bunch of unwanted magic boxes and white bunny rabbits.
The 4616 Blue Knight was a nice figure, and the sort people might collect in numbers to make an army. I might get some more, though I already collected quite a few from various sources.
4548 Pirate, his top half makes a pretty good uniform for British Navy figures, if you can find blue or white-trousered legs for the bottom half, either with shoes for Petty Officers or possibly bare feet for common sailors, though they would be a bit smart for a regular crew.
4666 Courageous Knight, I never really warmed to this figure, but he does have a unique shield that you might want in numbers, and a chainmail coif that can prove useful in customs.
4663 King. Hmm. How many Kings would any collector want? One is usually enough, but maybe you could turn this figure into a fat courtier. Or maybe his crown and sceptre would be good for treasure hoards?
