General Zod - Black Armor
sh079 · Super Heroes
DC Universe - Man of Steel · 2013, released alongside the 'Man of Steel' film during the initial launch of the modern DC Super Heroes line.
Figure ID
sh079
Theme
Super Heroes
Year Released
2013, released alongside the 'Man of Steel' film during the initial launch of the modern DC Super Heroes line.
Rarity
Uncommon. It was exclusive to a single medium-priced set during the film's theatrical run and was later discontinued.
Head
Flesh tone head with black hair and a goatee/beard print. The image shows the character wearing a Pearl Dark Gray Kryptonian breather helmet/mask which hides the face.
Torso
Dark Pearl Gray torso with highly detailed Kryptonian armor plating print in silver and black; back is also printed. Dark gray arms and black hands.
Legs
Dark Pearl Gray legs with black hip piece. The legs are unprinted in this specific variant.
Accessories
Kryptonian breather mask (helmet) in Pearl Dark Gray and a matching heavy shoulder armor piece with ridges. This figure is missing the black cape commonly included in the original set.
Color Scheme
Primary Pearl Dark Gray and Black with Metallic Silver/Silver ink accents for the armor plating.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso front and back; the helmet and armor utilize detailed mold textures rather than prints. The image shows some wear on the leg edges.
Variants
Several versions exist: sh078 (no armor, yellow skin), sh070 (printed suit, no armor), and this version sh079 (heavy armor/helmet).
Condition Notes
The figure in the image is missing its hands and cape. Check for stress marks on the neck from the heavy armor piece and 'heel' cracks on the back of the legs.
Estimated Value
Used (incomplete as pictured): $3 - $5; Used (complete with cape/hands): $12 - $18; New/Mint: $25+.
Price (New)
Included in set 76003 (Superman: Battle of Smallville) which retailed for $49.99 in 2013.
Compatible Sets
76003 Superman: Battle of Smallville (2013).
Character Background
General Dru-Zod, the primary antagonist of the 2013 film 'Man of Steel,' portrayed by Michael Shannon. He is a Kryptonian military commander seeking to terraform Earth.
Design Notes
Features a unique Kryptonian armor mold that fits over the neck peg. The helmet design is specific to the Man of Steel wave, meant to represent the CGI atmosphere suits.
Similar Minifigures
Faora (sh080), Tor-An (sh081), and other General Zod variants such as 'sh070' without the heavy armor.
Collectibility
Modest but stable. Highly desired by DC completionists and fans of the Snyderverse films; however, the lack of leg printing makes it less flashy than modern figures.
History
This figure marked the transition in LEGO Super Heroes from comic-book-inspired designs to highly specific movie-licensed character models.
Interesting Facts
The shoulder armor piece is so bulky it prevents the figure from sitting flush against certain bricks or within some vehicle cockpits.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside Faora and Tor-An to recreate the 'Assault on Smallville' scene; looks best on a clear 'flight' stand.
Modification Potential
The armor and helmet are popular for sci-fi MOCs, particularly for 'Doom' or 'Fallout' style power armor customs.
Overall Assessment
A solid 7/10 figure from the early 2010s hero era. While this specific unit is missing hands and a cape, the armor pieces remain high-value parts for collectors.