Classic Space Astronaut - Gold (Minifigure Series 26)
col422 · Collectible Minifigures
Series 26 - Space · 2024 (specifically May 1st release). This figure debuted during the massive 2024 'Year of Space' cross-theme celebration by LEGO.
Figure ID
col422
Theme
Collectible Minifigures
Year Released
2024 (specifically May 1st release). This figure debuted during the massive 2024 'Year of Space' cross-theme celebration by LEGO.
Rarity
Uncommon. While part of a mass-produced blind box series, collectors specifically target 'army-builders' like this, occasionally making it harder to find in the wild without individual unit purchases.
Head
Classic Yellow skin tone with the 'Standard Grin' face (two solid dots for eyes and a wide smile). No dual printing, maintaining the retro aesthetic.
Torso
Pearl Gold torso featuring the Classic Space logo (gold orbit, white ring, and red rocket) on the front. No back printing, which is a stylistic choice to mimic 1970s design.
Legs
Solid Pearl Gold legs with a matching Pearl Gold hip piece. No printing on the front, sides, or back.
Accessories
Includes a Pearl Gold air tank (not visible in image but standard to the figure), a Pearl Gold helmet (thin chin-strap style), and a brick-built laser tool consisting of a light bluish gray handle/nozzle and a trans-green 1x1 round plate.
Color Scheme
Primary color is Pearl Gold. Accents in the logo include white and red. The accessory uses Light Bluish Gray and Trans-Green.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso. The logo uses a thicker application to stand out against the metallic gold plastic. No printing on the head gear, arms, or legs.
Variants
None of this specific Pearl Gold version. However, it is a spiritual successor to the 2011 Gold Chrome Minifigure and various other colored astronauts (Red, Blue, Yellow, White, Black, Orange, Green, Purple, Brown, Grey, Pink, Baby Blue).
Condition Notes
Pearl Gold plastic is prone to showing 'swirl marks' from the injection molding process. The helmet chin strap is thin and can suffer from stress fractures if pulled. Common wear includes scratches on the metallic finish.
Estimated Value
Used: $5 - $7 USD; New (Full kit): $6 - $9 USD. Prices are currently stable as the set is still in recent circulation.
Price (New)
$4.99 USD (Retail price of one Series 26 blind box/bag).
Compatible Sets
71046 LEGO Minifigures - Series 26 Space.
Character Background
This figure is a 'Space Suite' variant of the iconic Classic Space astronauts that defined LEGO's sci-fi aesthetic from 1978 through the late 80s. It represents a commemorative or high-ranking ceremonial gold suit.
Design Notes
The helmet uses the modern 'thick' chin strap mold for durability, but mimics the silhouette of the 1978 original. The use of Pearl Gold plastic rather than Chrome Gold is a modern safety and cost-effective standard.
Similar Minifigures
Classic Space astronauts in other colors (Red: sp005, Blue: sp004, etc.) and the Series 24 Brown Astronaut with Space Baby.
Collectibility
High. Classic Space is one of the most zealously collected themes in LEGO history. Any addition to the color spectrum is considered an essential 'must-have' for completionists.
History
For decades, fans requested a gold astronaut to complete the 'Space Rainbow.' LEGO previously released a Chrome Gold figure for the 10th anniversary of CMF, but it was ultra-rare. This version makes the 'Golden Spaceman' accessible to everyone.
Interesting Facts
The tool held in the image is often interpreted as a 'Space Polisher' or 'Scanner.' This figure's appearance in Series 26 was part of a coordinated effort across City, Technic, and DreamZzz to revitalize the Space branding.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a 'rainbow' lineup alongside the other 11+ colors of Classic Space astronauts. Looks excellent under warm LED lighting to catch the metallic pearl sheen.
Modification Potential
Extremely high for 'purist' modifications. Collectors often swap the helmet for the older 'thin strap' version for vintage accuracy, or use the gold torso for high-ranking custom space royalty MOCs.
Overall Assessment
Excellent. It perfectly balances retro nostalgia with modern part quality. It is a 10/10 for value and a fundamental piece for any Classic Space enthusiast.