Captain Redbeard (Iron Hook)
pi055 · Pirates
Pirates I / System · 1994 (Initial release of this specific torso variation)
Figure ID
pi055
Theme
Pirates
Year Released
1994 (Initial release of this specific torso variation)
Rarity
Uncommon. While Captain Redbeard is the face of the Pirates line, this specific torso print with the green waistcoat and brown sash was less common than the original 1989 version.
Head
Yellow classic head with a red beard, red mustache, and a black eye patch over the left eye. Features the standard 'grinning' pirate expression common to the era.
Torso
Black torso with a green waistcoat, yellow buttons, and a brown sash printed on the front. It features a grey hook on the left arm and a yellow hand on the right.
Legs
Standard black hips and one black leg, with a black peg leg (molded leg) on the figure's right side. No printing on legs.
Accessories
Includes a black pirate bicorne hat with a skull and crossbones (Jolly Roger) print (missing in image, though a standard bicorne is present). Usually paired with a cutlass or flintlock pistol.
Color Scheme
A mix of Black, Green, Yellow, and Brown. The green waistcoat is a signature of the 1990s pirate redesigns, moving away from the red/white stripes of the original 1989 crew.
Printing Details
Simple pad printing on the front of the torso and head. No back printing or leg printing, which was standard for the early-to-mid 90s. The alignment on these older figures is generally centered but prone to fading.
Variants
Pi005 (1989) has a different torso (red/white stripes). Pi055 (this version) features the green waistcoat. This specific figure in the photo appears to have a standard bicorne hat rather than the printed Jolly Roger version.
Condition Notes
The example pictured shows significant play wear. Common issues include fading of the gold/yellow torso printing, 'hook' tension loss, and scratches on the bicorne hat. The head print for the beard is prone to rubbing off.
Estimated Value
Used (Good): $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Used (Poor/As Pictured): $3.00 - $5.00 USD. New/Mint: $25.00+ USD depending on the specific set source.
Price (New)
N/A (Came in sets ranging from $5.00 polybags to $100.00 flagship ships like the Skull's Eye Schooner).
Compatible Sets
Set 6268 Renegade Runner (1993), Set 6286 Skull's Eye Schooner (1993), and Set 1786 Jailbreak (1995).
Character Background
Captain Redbeard is the primary antagonist of the LEGO Pirates theme and leader of the Black Seas Barracuda crew. He is LEGO's first named character with a unique identity beyond a generic 'job' description.
Design Notes
The introduction of the hook hand and peg leg in 1989 were revolutionary for LEGO, as they were among the first specialized 'non-humanoid' body parts introduced to the minifigure system.
Similar Minifigures
Captain Ironhook (pi006), Captain Roger, and the 2015/2020 remake versions of Redbeard (pi153).
Collectibility
High. Anything from the 90s Pirates era is highly sought after for nostalgia and diorama building, though the 'Green Waistcoat' variant is slightly less iconic than the original 1989 'Red Shirt' version.
History
Redbeard debuted in 1989 and defined the 'Action-Adventure' era of LEGO. This 1994-era redesign updated his wardrobe to look more 'Imperial' or 'High Seas' with the inclusion of the waistcoat.
Interesting Facts
The 'peg leg' piece is actually the same height as a standard leg but prevents the figure from sitting properly on studs unless the other leg is removed or rotated.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on the deck of a 90s-era ship like the Renegade Runner or inside a classic wooden display case with a Caribbean background.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' pirate customs. The hook and peg leg are frequently used by MOC builders to create grizzled veterans or steampunk characters.
Overall Assessment
A classic piece of LEGO history. Despite the wear on the pictured figure, it remains a cornerstone of 90s childhood nostalgia. Rated 8/10 for historical significance.