Chewbacca (Reddish Brown)
sw0011a · Star Wars
Classic Star Wars / Episode IV-VI · Released in 2004. This version marked the transition from the original Brown (sw0011) to the modern Reddish Brown color palette.
Figure ID
sw0011a
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
Released in 2004. This version marked the transition from the original Brown (sw0011) to the modern Reddish Brown color palette.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While produced in large quantities, finding them in pristine condition is becoming more difficult as they are nearly 20 years old.
Head
Unique molded head-and-torso cover piece in Reddish Brown. Features printed black eyes and a small black nose. The mold covers the entire upper torso and neck area.
Torso
The torso is a standard Reddish Brown LEGO torso, mostly obscured by the molded Wookiee face/hair piece. It features a printed silver bandolier spanning from the shoulder to the hip.
Legs
Standard Reddish Brown unprinted legs with a matching Reddish Brown hip piece.
Accessories
Typically originally packaged with a black LEGO crossbow (representing a Bowcaster). No cape or external headgear is included as the hair is part of the mold.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic Reddish Brown with metallic silver and black printing accents.
Printing Details
Simple pad printing. The bandolier features distinct silver rectangles. Evolution of this print eventually led to more textured fur highlights in later versions (sw0532).
Variants
sw0011 (Old Brown, 1999-2003), sw0011a (Reddish Brown, no fur highlights), sw0532 (Tan fur highlights, 2014-present).
Condition Notes
Susceptible to 'Reddish Brown Brittle Syndrome' where the plastic can crack easily, especially at the leg joints and torso clips. Friction wear on the bandolier print is common.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD; New/Mint: $10.00 - $15.00 USD. Prices vary based on the tightness of the limb joints.
Price (New)
Mostly found in sets ranging from $20 to $100 USD. As a licensed figure, it carried a higher 'set-price-per-minifigure' value than standard City figures.
Compatible Sets
Set 10131 (TIE Collection), 6212 (X-wing Fighter), 7256 (Jedi Starfighter and Vulture Droid), and 4504 (Millennium Falcon).
Character Background
Chewbacca is a Wookiee warrior, co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon, and Han Solo's loyal best friend. He is a hero of the Rebel Alliance across the original trilogy.
Design Notes
This specific design uses the 'head-cap' style mold which was revolutionary for the time but lacks the leg printing and detailed fur textures seen in modern 2020s iterations.
Similar Minifigures
Other Wookiees like Tarfful (sw0530) or the original 1999 Brown Chewbacca (sw0011).
Collectibility
High for 'completionist' Star Wars collectors who want every version of the main cast. Moderate investment potential due to high supply.
History
Initially released in the late 90s in Brown, this 2004 version represents LEGO's global color change to the more vibrant Reddish Brown hue.
Interesting Facts
The mold used for this figure was one of the first to significantly change the silhouette of a standard LEGO minifigure to depict a non-human species.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside a 2004-era Han Solo (sw0045) or inside the cockpit of a mid-2000s Millennium Falcon for era-accuracy.
Modification Potential
The head-piece is often used in MOCs for custom Wookiees or hairy creatures. Parts are easily interchangeable with other brown-toned figures.
Overall Assessment
A nostalgic staple of the mid-2000s Star Wars line. While it lacks the high-definition printing of modern figures, its classic aesthetic makes it a cornerstone of any Star Wars collection.