SpongeBob - Gulp
bob018 · SpongeBob SquarePants
Nickelodeon / General Wave · 2009 (Released in set 3834)
Figure ID
bob018
Theme
SpongeBob SquarePants
Year Released
2009 (Released in set 3834)
Rarity
Uncommon; part of a discontinued high-demand licensed theme.
Head
The head and torso are integrated into a single unique square molded piece with indented pores. This version features a wide-open, joyous mouth (the 'Gulp' or big grin expression).
Torso
Integral square body piece in bright yellow with a white shirt collar, red tie, and detailed lower printing. Yellow arms and hands.
Legs
Short brown legs (not articulated); the hip joint is integrated into the body mold which fits into standard leg pins.
Accessories
None included in the image; usually paired with a spatula or Krabby Patty in original sets.
Color Scheme
Bright yellow primary body with brown pants and white/red/black facial accents.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on a specialized porous-textured mold. Features specific large blue eyes and freckle details.
Variants
Standard (bob015), Scared (bob019), Grumpy (bob017), and various costume versions (Pirate, Astronaut, etc).
Condition Notes
Prone to 'nose' paint rub and chipping on the square corners. Yellowing of the white shirt print is common over time.
Estimated Value
Used: $8 - $15 USD; New/Mint: $20 - $30 USD depending on market demand.
Price (New)
$19.99 (Original price of set 3834 Good Neighbors at Bikini Bottom)
Compatible Sets
3834 Good Neighbors at Bikini Bottom
Character Background
Protagonist of Nickelodeon's SpongeBob SquarePants; works as a fry cook at the Krusty Krab.
Design Notes
Required a unique mold (4x4x1) to maintain the character's iconic silhouette, diverging from standard minifigure shape.
Similar Minifigures
Patrick Star (pat0xx), Squidward (sqd0xx), and varied SpongeBob expressions (bob001, bob020).
Collectibility
High. The SpongeBob line is a 'cult classic' among Adult Fans of LEGO (AFOLs) and Gen Z collectors.
History
LEGO held the license from 2006 to 2012 before it moved to Mega Bloks, making LEGO versions highly sought after.
Interesting Facts
SpongeBob was one of the first LEGO characters to consistently break the standard minifigure mold shape for its main character.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside Patrick and Squidward in a Bikini Bottom MOC or a theme-specific shadow box.
Modification Potential
Low due to the highly specialized mold, but legs can be swapped for standard articulated legs for custom 'tall' SpongeBob.
Overall Assessment
A classic piece of 2000s LEGO history. Highly recommended for fans of the show due to its expressive design and nostalgia value.