Obi-Wan Kenobi (Classic Yellow Skin)
sw0005 · Star Wars
Episode IV: A New Hope · 1999 (Debut in the very first wave of LEGO Star Wars)
Figure ID
sw0005
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
1999 (Debut in the very first wave of LEGO Star Wars)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While it appeared in three early sets, its age and condition-sensitive color make it a desirable collector's piece.
Head
Classic yellow skin tone with black dot eyes, a light orange/ginger mustache, and matching beard. This head is unique to early Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon Jinn figures.
Torso
Tan torso with printing of Jedi robes featuring a brown belt and a black neckline/undershirt detail. Back is unprinted (typical for the era).
Legs
Plain tan unprinted legs with a tan hip piece.
Accessories
Missing in image. Originally included a chrome-hilted blue lightsaber and a brown hooded cloth cape.
Color Scheme
Primary color is Tan (Brick Yellow), accented by a yellow head/hands and a brown belt print.
Printing Details
Simple 1990s pad printing. Minimalist lines for robe folds; alignement is generally centered but less sharp than modern digital standards.
Variants
This is the 'sw0005' version. A nearly identical version (sw0005a) exists where the printing on the torso uses a different line thickness on the belt.
Condition Notes
The tan plastic is highly susceptible to yellowing and sun damage. Check for 'cracking' in the torso sides and fraying on the original cloth cape.
Estimated Value
Used (Complete with cape/saber): $25-$40; Used (Incomplete as pictured): $10-$15. New/Sealed value is tied to the original set prices (NIB set 7110 can be $100+).
Price (New)
Available in sets ranging from $10.00 (7110 Landspeeder) to $50.00 (7150 TIE Fighter vs. X-wing).
Compatible Sets
7110 Landspeeder (1999), 7150 TIE Fighter & Y-wing (1999), 7152 TIE Fighter & Y-wing (2002), 7262 TIE Fighter & Y-Wing (2004).
Character Background
Based on Sir Alec Guinness's portrayal of Obi-Wan Kenobi in A New Hope, the hermit of Tatooine and mentor to Luke Skywalker.
Design Notes
Features the iconic blocky belt print. This figure predates 'flesh' skin tones (introduced in 2004) and used the standard yellow LEGO face.
Similar Minifigures
sw0027 (Qui-Gon Jinn), sw0011 (Darth Vader with classic gray head), sw0021 (Luke Skywalker Tatooine).
Collectibility
High. This is a foundational piece of LEGO Star Wars history being part of the 1999 launch line.
History
Launched in 1999 as part of the first-ever licensed LEGO theme. It represents the 'Classic Era' of Star Wars minifigures before the transition to realistic skin colors.
Interesting Facts
The chrome lightsaber hilts included with this figure were prone to flaking off, leaving a dull grey plastic underneath over time.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a 1999 launch-wave lineup or inside a custom Tatooine Mos Eisley MOC with the 7110 Landspeeder.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' MOCs. The tan legs and torso are useful for generic desert civilian characters.
Overall Assessment
Rating: 8/10 for historical significance. It is a must-have for nostalgic collectors, though the lack of the original cape and chrome saber reduces this specific unit's value.