Clone Trooper Lieutenant (Phase 1) - Dark Orange / Red Markings
sw0442 · Star Wars
Star Wars Episode 2 / The Yoda Chronicles · 2013
Figure ID
sw0442
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2013
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. Originally a promotional polybag item and included in one set, making it harder to find in mint condition than standard infantry.
Head
Standard 'Clone Trooper' flesh-toned head with angry expression (used from 2013-2019). The helmet is Phase 1 style with a unique dark orange/red printing on the crest and top.
Torso
Phase 1 armor pattern with white plating and black outlines. Includes subtle dark orange/red dot markings on the left breast, signifying the rank of Lieutenant. Back printing includes standard armor plating and utility belt detail.
Legs
Plain white legs with a black hip piece. No specific printing on the legs, which was standard for Clone Trooper figures of this era.
Accessories
Trans-red helmet plume (attached to the top crest) and a standard long black DC-15A blaster rifle. The plume is a vital accessory for this rank-specific variant.
Color Scheme
Primary white and black with specialized dark orange/red (often referred to as 'Dark Orange' in LEGO catalogs) rank accents and a translucent red crest.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso and helmet. The 'Lieutenant' dots are small and precise. Alignment is typically centered, reflecting LEGO's 2013 manufacturing standards.
Variants
This specific 2013 variant (sw0442) differs from the 2002 version by having modern flesh-toned heads and updated torso/helmet molds. Other variants include the Sergeant (green), Captain (red), and Commander (yellow).
Condition Notes
Look for yellowing on the white plastic. The helmet crest is the most common place for paint wear/chipping. Check for cracks in the torso or arms, common in figures from this decade.
Estimated Value
Used: $30.00 - $45.00 USD; New/Sealed in Polybag: $50.00 - $75.00 USD depending on market demand and condition.
Price (New)
Originally released as a promotional item (free with qualifying purchase) or included in set 75021 ($119.99), making the figure's individual 'retail' value approximately $4.00 at launch.
Compatible Sets
75021 Republic Gunship (2013) and 5001709 Clone Trooper Lieutenant Polybag (2013).
Character Background
Set during the Grand Army of the Republic's early years, Lieutenants led platoons of 36 clones. This design is based on the Phase 1 armor seen in 'Attack of the Clones'.
Design Notes
Represents the 'modern classic' phase of Clone Trooper design before LEGO transitioned to the 'realistic' Star Wars: Movie style or the 'stylized' Clone Wars style.
Similar Minifigures
sw0438 (Clone Sergeant), sw0492 (Clone Captain), sw0481 (Clone Commander), and standard sw0442 white clones.
Collectibility
High collector demand due to the popularity of the Republic Gunship set and the desire to complete the 'Rainbow' of Phase 1 officer ranks.
History
Launched in the summer of 2013 as part of the 'Yoda Chronicles' wave, celebrating the prequel era and the expansion of the Clone Wars storyline.
Interesting Facts
The 'Dark Orange' printing on the helmet and torso is often mistaken for red by fans, but it was specifically chosen to match the distinct color coding of the AOTC film.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in military formation alongside standard white Phase 1 troopers or exiting a Republic Gunship (75021). UV protection is essential to prevent the white limbs from yellowing.
Modification Potential
Highly modular; the head and legs can be easily swapped for 'battle-damaged' variants from later years or outfitted with custom cloth pauldrons.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential piece for any Star Wars LEGO collector. Its rank-specific printing and classic silhouette make it a standout figure of the early 2010s era.