Darth Vader (Tan Head, Two-Piece Helmet)
sw0636 / sw0636a · Star Wars
Star Wars Rebels / The Original Trilogy · 2015 - Released in the Final Duel (75093) and the Imperial Inspection (75059).
Figure ID
sw0636 / sw0636a
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2015 - Released in the Final Duel (75093) and the Imperial Inspection (75059).
Rarity
Uncommon - While Darth Vader is a common character, this specific 'two-piece helmet' version with the tan head print was less common than the earlier one-piece helmet versions.
Head
Features a tan/flesh-toned head with detailed light-grey scarring, sunken yellow/orange eyes, and a stern expression. It is a significant upgrade from the 'grey' heads used in the 2000s.
Torso
Black torso with detailed control panel printing including red and blue buttons. Features light grey lines to simulate the ribbing of the flight suit and back printing showing the rear control box and suit texture.
Legs
Standard black legs with grey printing on the front to represent the continuation of the tunic and the characteristic vertical fabric lines of the Sith Lord's suit.
Accessories
Comes with a two-piece black helmet (top cap and chin guard) and a black spongy fabric cape. A red lightsaber with a chrome or silver hilt is typically included but missing from the image.
Color Scheme
Dominantly black with secondary grey, silver, red, and blue accents on the chest plate. The internal head is tan.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head, torso front/back, and legs. The alignment is generally excellent, reflecting LEGO's mid-2010s quality standards.
Variants
Variants include sw0636 (white head), sw0585 (Rebels version), and the later sw1213 (arm printing version). The 20th Anniversary version features a classic torso.
Condition Notes
The black plastic easily shows scratches and dust. The fabric cape can fray at the edges, and the neck loop of the cape often creases. Check for 'clutch power' on the two-piece helmet as the top part can become loose.
Estimated Value
$15.00 - $25.00 USD used; approximately $35.00+ new. Prices fluctuate based on the specific set it originated from and cape condition.
Price (New)
This figure appeared in sets ranging from $29.99 (Transformation) to $79.99 (Final Duel), making it a mid-tier collector's item in terms of initial investment.
Compatible Sets
75093 Death Star Final Duel (2015), 75159 Death Star (2016), 75055 Imperial Star Destroyer (2014 - variant).
Character Background
Anakin Skywalker, once a Jedi Knight, turned to the dark side of the Force to become Darth Vader, the Dark Lord of the Sith and the primary antagonist/tragic hero of the Star Wars Saga.
Design Notes
This version marked a massive shift in LEGO design by introducing the two-piece helmet mold, allowing the top part to be removed to reveal the face without removing the collar, mirroring the films.
Similar Minifigures
sw0001 (Classic Vader), sw1164 (Chrome Vader), sw1213 (Obi-Wan Kenobi Series Vader).
Collectibility
High. Darth Vader is arguably the most iconic LEGO Star Wars figure. Versions with the two-piece helmet and non-white heads are particularly desirable for display and dioramas.
History
Vader was one of the first licensed minifigures in 1999. Since then, he has evolved from a simple one-piece helmet with a yellow head to this highly detailed, multi-part, movie-accurate representation.
Interesting Facts
The two-piece helmet design was controversial at launch because the 'tilt' of the chin guard made Vader look like he was looking upward slightly, but it quickly became the standard for accuracy.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a black stand or within a Death Star throne room vignette. Pair with Emperor Palpatine and Luke Skywalker to recreate the 'Return of the Jedi' finale.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' customs. The head can be swapped with damaged versions for a 'post-battle' look, and third-party 'starchester' capes can add a premium feel.
Overall Assessment
An essential minifigure for any LEGO Star Wars fan. Its quality printing and revolutionary helmet design make it a 9/10 in terms of character accuracy and value.