Spider-Man - Black Suit (Venom Symbiote)
sh055 · Marvel Super Heroes
Ultimate Spider-Man · 2012 (Released in December 2012/January 2013)
Figure ID
sh055
Theme
Marvel Super Heroes
Year Released
2012 (Released in December 2012/January 2013)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While it appeared in a widely available set, it was only produced for a limited window and is the only comic-style black suit Spider-Man ever released officially.
Head
Solid black head piece with large white eyes outlined in a thin black line representing the symbiote mask. It is a single-sided print.
Torso
Black torso featuring a large white spider emblem that wraps slightly around the sides. The print includes muscle definition in grey. The back features the continuation of the white spider logo.
Legs
Solid black legs without printing. The hip piece is also black.
Accessories
In its original set (76004), it included a white 'web rope' piece. The figure in the image is missing its web accessory.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic black and white, staying true to the classic 1980s Marvel 'Secret Wars' aesthetic.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head and torso. The white ink is opaque enough to resist the black plastic bleeding through, which was an achievement for 2012 LEGO standards.
Variants
There is a San Diego Comic-Con exclusive version (2012) which is extremely rare; however, this specific figure (sh055) is the retail 'Ultimate Spider-Man' version. Later 'Venom' figures exist, but this is the primary hero version of the suit.
Condition Notes
Prone to visible scratches on the black plastic. The image shows significant 'bite marks' or heavy crushing on the left foot (viewer's right) and the hands, which significantly lowers collector value.
Estimated Value
New/Mint: $35-$45. Used (Excellent): $20-$28. Current condition (Damaged legs/hands): $8-$12.
Price (New)
Originally included in set 76004 'Spider-Man: Spider-Cycle Chase' which retailed for $19.99 USD.
Compatible Sets
76004 Spider-Man: Spider-Cycle Chase (2013)
Character Background
Represents Peter Parker wearing the alien symbiote discovered during the Secret Wars. This specific design is based on the 'Ultimate Spider-Man' animated series airing at the time.
Design Notes
Uses the 2012-era 'large eye' Spiderman design. This was the first time LEGO fans received a non-exclusive 'Black Suit' Spidey after years of requests.
Similar Minifigures
SDCC 2012 Symbiote Spider-Man (Ultra Rare), Venom (sh113), Spider-Man (sh038).
Collectibility
High demand. Black Suit Spider-Man is one of the most iconic Marvel variants. Despite being over a decade old, LEGO has not released a standard replacement/remake, keeping demand steady.
History
Debuted as part of the second wave of LEGO Marvel Super Heroes sets. It marked LEGO's shift toward the 'Ultimate Spider-Man' branding rather than movie-specific (Raimi/Webb) tie-ins.
Interesting Facts
For many years, this was the cheapest way to get a 'Venom-like' hero. The torso design is one of the cleanest and most accurate comic-to-brick translations in the theme.
Display Suggestions
Display upside down (as shown in image) on a clear bar or string to simulate wall-crawling. Pairs perfectly with the 2013 Venom or Nick Fury minifigures.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'Dark Spider-Man' MOCs. The torso is often used for custom figures like Agent Venom or custom black-suit variants of other web-slingers.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier Marvel minifigure with high nostalgia and aesthetic value. However, the specific specimen in the photo has significant physical damage to the legs and hands, which detracts from its investment potential.