Stormtrooper (Dual Molded Helmet, Gray Squares on Back, Frown)
sw0997 · Star Wars
Original Trilogy / 20th Anniversary · 2019 (Debuted in set 75235 and 75262)
Figure ID
sw0997
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2019 (Debuted in set 75235 and 75262)
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it appeared in several sets, it transitioned the base Stormtrooper design into the dual-molded era, making it very easy to find but highly sought after in bulk.
Head
Standard 'Angry Clone' or 'Frown' face (part 3626cpb2111) used across most LEGO Star Wars troopers of this era. It is topped with the complex dual-molded helmet (part 38268) which features black and white plastic fused together rather than just printed.
Torso
White Stormtrooper Armor with detailed black and grey printing. Features the specific layout for the 2019 refresh, including the thermal detonator and gray squares on the back printing. Arms are plain white; hands are black.
Legs
Plain white legs without printing. This is the primary distiction from the 'Elite' or more recent versions which include toe/muck printing.
Accessories
Typically comes with a standard black stud shooter or a medium blaster (not shown in image). No cloth pieces or specialized gear are standard for this ID.
Color Scheme
Classic Imperial White and Black with Light Bluish Gray mechanical detailing and dark gray vent printing.
Printing Details
High precision. The helmet is the standout, using dual-injection molding to ensure the 'mouth' and eye bands are permanent plastic colors rather than surface ink. Torso alignment is generally consistent across production runs.
Variants
Variants include sw1234 (same design with leg printing) and sw0585 (previous generation with single-mold helmet and non-frown face). This specific sw0997 is the 'Simplified' leg version.
Condition Notes
Check for 'yellowing' on the white plastic if exposed to UV. The most common wear point is the neck of the torso (cracks) and the looseness of the arms. The dual-molded helmet is very durable compared to older printed versions.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $6.00 USD; New: $7.00 - $9.00 USD. Prices are stable due to high volume in the secondary market.
Price (New)
Contained in sets ranging from $14.99 (75262 Imperial Dropship) to $99.99 (75252 Imperial Star Destroyer - as a side figure).
Compatible Sets
75235 X-Wing Starfighter Trench Run, 75262 Imperial Dropship – 20th Anniversary Edition, 75239 Action Battle Hoth Generator Attack, 75241 Action Battle Echo Base Defense.
Character Background
The ubiquitous frontline soldier of the Galactic Empire. This specific design is modeled after the appearance in 'A New Hope', characterized by the slightly drooping 'angry' eye look of the helmet vents.
Design Notes
This figure marked a controversial shift in the LEGO community due to the dual-molded helmet. While more detailed, the helmet is slightly larger and cannot rotate as freely when paired with certain armor pieces compared to the 2014-2018 mold.
Similar Minifigures
sw1234 (Modern Stormtrooper with leg prints), sw0585 (2014 Stormtrooper), sw0188 (Classic 2008 Stormtrooper).
Collectibility
High for army builders; moderate for single-figure investors. Because people buy hundreds of these for dioramas, the demand remains constant despite high supply.
History
Launched during the 20th Anniversary of LEGO Star Wars. It represented the first major redesign of the Stormtrooper helmet since the 2014 'Rebels' inspired era.
Interesting Facts
The 'dual-molding' process means the black 'frown' of the helmet is actually a separate piece of plastic injected into the white mold, making it impossible for the paint to scratch off.
Display Suggestions
Display in ranks of 4 or 8 on a light bluish-gray baseplate to simulate a Star Destroyer corridor. Pairs best with the 20th Anniversary Darth Vader.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' customs. The torso is a perfect base for Sandtroopers or custom Imperial officers. Highly compatible with third-party fabric pauldrons.
Overall Assessment
A foundational piece of any modern Star Wars collection. While some purists dislike the 'bulky' helmet, it is objectively the most detailed and durable standard Stormtrooper LEGO has produced to date.