Shadow Trooper (Classic)
sw0166 / sw0166a · Star Wars
Expanded Universe / Legends · 2007 (First release in 7664 TIE Crawler)
Figure ID
sw0166 / sw0166a
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2007 (First release in 7664 TIE Crawler)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While not a limited convention exclusive, it was only available in a few sets released between 2007-2008 and is highly sought after by army builders.
Head
Standard yellow classic minifigure head with a black visor helmet. Note: The provided image shows a modified chrome/silver visor helmet which is not standard for the base sw0166.
Torso
Black torso with white and grey printing of a Stormtrooper-style armor pattern, featuring a distinctive skull-like emblem or heavy utility marking often associated with the Shadow/Blackhole stormtroopers.
Legs
Plain black legs without printing. The hip piece is also black.
Accessories
Equipped with a large brick-built heavy blaster rifle and a black cape. Some versions include a red accent on the underside of the cape for the Shadow Stormtrooper look.
Color Scheme
Primary: Black; Accents: White printing and Dark Bluish Gray hands. The visor in the photo appears to be a Chrome Silver modification or light reflecting on a transparent-clear visor.
Printing Details
Pad printing on the front of the torso. High contrast white-on-black printing. No back torso printing or leg printing, typical of mid-2000s LEGO Star Wars.
Variants
Several versions exist: sw0166 (original 2007) and sw0166a (which features a different style of helmet vent printing). Newer versions like sw0603 feature more detailed modern printing.
Condition Notes
Check for torso cracks at the sides and arm joints. The black plastic shows scratches and 'play wear' more easily than lighter colors. The helmet visor area is prone to paint rub.
Estimated Value
Used: $15 - $25 USD. New/Mint: $35 - $50 USD. Values fluctuate based on the specific helmet variant and cape condition.
Price (New)
Original set 7664 TIE Crawler retailed for $49.99 USD in 2007 (included 2 of these figures).
Compatible Sets
7664 TIE Crawler (2007), 7667 Imperial Dropship (2008).
Character Background
Shadow Troopers, also known as Blackhole Stormtroopers, were elite specialized troopers within the Galactic Empire's Stormtrooper Corps, appearing primarily in Star Wars Expanded Universe (Legends) material.
Design Notes
This figure represents the transition period where LEGO began using more specialized printing on non-movie characters. The mold for the helmet is the original 1999 Stormtrooper sculpt.
Similar Minifigures
Imperial Shock Trooper (sw0091), Dark Trooper (sw1161), Blacktron I Astronaut, and modern Shadow Troopers (sw0603).
Collectibility
High. Classic black variations of iconic troopers are perennial favorites for 'army builders' and Star Wars completionists.
History
First introduced during the 30th Anniversary of Star Wars in 2007. It was one of the first 'EU' (Expanded Universe) troopers to gain popularity in the LEGO community.
Interesting Facts
The version in the provided image appears to have a non-standard or 'custom' chrome-painted helmet visor, a common modification by fans to mimic the shiny appearance seen in games like Star Wars: Battlefront.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in an Imperial hangar MOC or alongside other spec-ops troopers. Use a clear stand to highlight the black cape against a darker background.
Modification Potential
Frequently used for custom 'Death Troopers' or 'Blackhole' troopers. The helmet is a prime candidate for chrome-dipping or high-gloss painting.
Overall Assessment
A foundational piece of LEGO Star Wars history. While it lacks the detail of modern 360-degree printing, its 'classic' aesthetic and rarity make it a standout for any serious collection.