The Crater Critter series changes are documented in Craig’s book. The gallery here includes some photos to expand on those distinctions.
These Crater Critters are all second series issues and vary from a darker green, through pale, to a lime and green blend. I think this will be due to colour change over in the manufacturing.
The orange colours, at least in my collection, vary distinctly between series 1 & 2. In this photo the left 2nd series orange is denser and more vivid in colour than the 1st series figure which has a degree of transparency. I've compare about 10 different orange figures and all display the same colour distinction between the series.
The left Clever Crater Critter figure is series 1 and displays a broader mouth design than the series 2 figure on the right. Note the inward curve of the top and the right side of the mouth reduce the size of the mouth making it narrower overall.
A slightly different view to compare the different mouth shape between Clever Critter series 1 and 2.
The left lime coloured Cranky is first series and the pink on the right is second series. The obvious mould ejection pin mark on the front 'neck' of the figure is how to tell.
Very easy to distinguish between series 1 and series 2 of Creepy Critter. Series 2 on the right in this image shows the angular fin shape on the back of the head and similarly on the top of the head. While series 1 on the left the fin on the back of the head is slightly curved and shows some separation between the webbing of the fin.
A close up of Kindly Critter right hand showing the thumb and hand as if it is enclosed in a mitten.
Kindly Critter series 2 has a distinct horizontal line that runs from the thumb out and creates the impression of 2 fingers and thumb for the hand.
I have 3 Kingly Critters and the variation between 1st and 2nd series is meant to be the mould ejection mark being on the right or left side of the head. However, all three of these have no top of head ejection mark and do have a consistent slightly left of centre of what would be the chin. Working on the basis of colours these should all be 2nd series.
Kooky Critter series issues can be distinguished quite easily from the shape of the pupil in the eye. Series one on the left in the image shows the raised dots, while series 2 has circular shapes.
As always Craig Halls’ book, Breakfast barons, Cereal critters and the Rosenhain & Lipmann Legacy, is my reference bible for cereal toys. This series is found on page 144.
For other cereal toy series and information refer back to the main section page, Australian Cereal Toy Premiums.