Chancellor Palpatine - Dark Brown Robe and Black Hands
sw0631 · Star Wars
The Clone Wars · Released in 2015. It debuted during a period where LEGO was transitioning from 'The Clone Wars' animated style to the more realistic 'Rebels' and modern movie styles, though this figure specifically uses standard realistic features.
Figure ID
sw0631
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
Released in 2015. It debuted during a period where LEGO was transitioning from 'The Clone Wars' animated style to the more realistic 'Rebels' and modern movie styles, though this figure specifically uses standard realistic features.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While not a convention exclusive, it appeared in only one mid-priced set that had a relatively short shelf life, making it highly sought after by Star Wars completionists.
Head
Light Nougat with realistic Chancellor Palpatine features. It includes subtle orange-yellow Sith-influenced eyes, deep forehead wrinkles, and a stern, frowning expression. The head is double-sided, usually featuring a second slightly more menacing or 'Sith-reveal' expression. It lacks the hair piece (Light Bluish Gray) in this image.
Torso
Dark Brown Jedi/Chancellor robes with a printed gold/tanned utility belt that includes a silver buckle and pouch details. The inner tunic is printed in Light Bluish Gray. The arms are white, and the hands are black, representing his gloves.
Legs
Plain Dark Brown legs with no printing. The hip piece is also Dark Brown.
Accessories
In its original set, it includes a Light Bluish Gray hair piece (widow's peak style) and two trans-light blue 'Force Lightning' pieces. This specific figure in the image is missing its hair and accessories.
Color Scheme
Primary Dark Brown robes with White sleeves and Black hands. Accents include the Light Nougat skin and Gold/Silver printing on the utility belt.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of 2015. The torso features clean lines for the robe folds and distinct metallic silver on the belt buckle. The head printing is detailed, capturing the aging features of the character without the 'bug-eyed' look of earlier Clone Wars figures.
Variants
This is the 'realistic' style variant from 2015. It differs from the 2010 Clone Wars version (sw0273) which had stylized animated eyes, and the earlier grey-robed versions from the prequel sets.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the white arms, which can show dirt or scuffs easily, and the torso side-seams which may crack if the arms are moved aggressively. The black hands should be checked for 'bites' or teeth marks from young users.
Estimated Value
Current market value for a complete figure (with hair) is approximately $45-$60 USD used. In the current incomplete state (missing hair), the value is closer to $25-$35 USD.
Price (New)
Originally released in set 75091 (Flash Speeder) which retailed for $29.99 USD in 2015. The value of this minifigure alone now exceeds the original retail price of the entire set.
Compatible Sets
Appears exclusively in Set 75091: Flash Speeder (2015).
Character Background
Sheev Palpatine, serving as the Supreme Chancellor of the Republic. This specific outfit represents his appearance during the Clone Wars era and his eventual transition back into the Sith Lord, Darth Sidious. His black gloves and hidden Sith eyes hint at his true allegiance.
Design Notes
The use of white arms on a dark brown torso is a specific design choice to represent the inner sleeves of his tunic. The choice of 'Sith Eyes' for a Chancellor figure was a deliberate nod to the character's secret identity.
Similar Minifigures
sw0273 (Chancellor Palpatine - Clone Wars), sw0595 (Palpatine - Episode III), and various Darth Sidious figures (sw0634).
Collectibility
High. Because Palpatine is a central antagonist and this specific version is tied to a single set, it remains a high-priority 'want' for Star Wars minifigure collectors.
History
LEGO's depiction of the Chancellor has evolved from yellow-skinned classic figures to the stylized 'Clone Wars' animation style, finally settling into the detailed realistic aesthetic seen in this 2015 version.
Interesting Facts
Despite appearing in a Naboo-themed set (Flash Speeder), this specific outfit is more closely associated with his Coruscant appearances. He is one of the few 'good guy' looking figures to include Sith-colored eyes.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed alongside Naboo Security Guards or Captain Tarpals (both from the same set). Using a UV-protected case is recommended to prevent the white arms from yellowing over time.
Modification Potential
The head is popular for custom 'Order 66' dioramas. The torso and legs can be easily repurposed for custom Jedi Master characters or dark-robed senators.
Overall Assessment
A standout figure from the 2015 wave. Its value has appreciated significantly due to its exclusivity and the popularity of the character. Even incomplete, it is a valuable find, though sourcing the correct hair piece is recommended to maximize value.