How can I tell if my Transformer toy is old?

I got a Transformers toy from a friend that looks very old. I believe it is Optimus Prime. Is there a way to tell if the toy is old or not?|||You need to look for the copyright date. Besides that if it's made of metal instead of plastic there is a good chance it's a GEN 1 transformer.|||Usually toys are stamped with MADE IN CHINA and the year made...you can always google the toy or go to a Transformers forum and post a picture and ask.|||if an arm breaks of or some thing like that .that is how you know if its old or not.|||take it to a toy store, or google when that toy came out