Classic LEGO Minifigure Head - Standard Grin
Part 3626bp01 (Standard Smile) · Universal / Multiple Themes (System, Town, Space, Castle)
Generic / Classic Era · 1978; this marked the debut of the iconic modern LEGO minifigure head with the 'smile' face.
Figure ID
Part 3626bp01 (Standard Smile)
Theme
Universal / Multiple Themes (System, Town, Space, Castle)
Year Released
1978; this marked the debut of the iconic modern LEGO minifigure head with the 'smile' face.
Rarity
Common; this is the most mass-produced face print in LEGO history, appearing in thousands of sets.
Head
Solid yellow stud-on-top head with two black solid-dot eyes and a thin curved upward crescent for a mouth.
Torso
Not present in image; historically paired with solid primary color torsos (red, blue, yellow, white).
Legs
Not present in image; historically paired with unprinted classic leg pieces.
Accessories
None shown; commonly paired with classic hats, construction helmets, or pigtail hairpieces.
Color Scheme
Solid Bright Yellow with black pad-printed facial features.
Printing Details
Simple pad printing. On vintage versions, the smile may have slightly different thicknesses depending on the factory mold.
Variants
Variated by 'pantry' (open stud vs. blocked stud vs. recessed stud) and ink thickness on the smile.
Condition Notes
Susceptible to 'bite marks' on the stud, fading of the black ink due to play, and yellowing from UV exposure.
Estimated Value
$0.05 - $0.25 USD for the head alone; value lies primarily in bulk lots or vintage 'mint' condition versions.
Price (New)
Bundled in sets ranging from $1.00 USD pocket money sets to $500.00+ USD collector sets.
Compatible Sets
Appears in over 2,500 sets including 375 Castle, 928 Galaxy Explorer, and 6399 Airport Shuttle.
Character Background
The 'anonymous' face of LEGO, designed to allow children to project any emotion or personality onto the figure.
Design Notes
Designed by Jens Nygaard Knudsen; the lack of pupils or nose is intentional for universal appeal and simplicity.
Similar Minifigures
Classic Space Astronauts, Classic Town Citizens, and the Series 18 'Classic Policeman'.
Collectibility
Low individual value but high emotional significance; every collector owns dozens of these.
History
Introduced in 1978, it remained the only face print until 1989 when the 'Pirates' theme introduced facial hair.
Interesting Facts
The hole on the top of the stud was added later as a safety feature to allow air passage if swallowed.
Display Suggestions
Best used to complete vintage 1970s/80s figures or displayed in a 'Head Jar' MOC.
Modification Potential
Highly versatile for any MOC; easy to swap onto any standard torso for a 'Classic' look.
Overall Assessment
The definitive icon of the LEGO brand; though worth pennies, it is the cornerstone of all minifigure collecting.