Anakin Skywalker (Short Legs, Podracer Helmet)
sw0640 · Star Wars
Episode I: The Phantom Menace · 2015 - Released as part of the Tatooine-themed wave, specifically appearing in the Flash Speeder set during a period where LEGO was updating prequel characters with more modern, detailed printing.
Figure ID
sw0640
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2015 - Released as part of the Tatooine-themed wave, specifically appearing in the Flash Speeder set during a period where LEGO was updating prequel characters with more modern, detailed printing.
Rarity
Uncommon. This specific version was only produced for a limited run across two sets and has since been retired. While not a high-end heirloom, its unique head and torso prints make it desirable for Episode I collectors.
Head
Light flesh tone with a determined/angry expression, featuring brown eyebrows and subtle lines around the eyes. The head is topped with a dark brown aviator-style hairpiece integrated with molded grey goggles.
Torso
Tan base color featuring detailed printing of a podracer flight suit. Includes four dark grey pouches on the right side, a pocket with a red button/indicator on the left, and a printed brown belt with a utility pouch. Tan arms with white hands.
Legs
Tan short legs (non-articulated) with printed detail. The printing continues the fabric folds of the flight suit and matches the tan color of the torso perfectly.
Accessories
Usually paired with a chrome or silver wrench or a blue-bladed lightsaber depending on the set context. The goggles/helmet piece is the primary defining accessory, though it is a molded part of the hair in some iterations and a separate attachment in others.
Color Scheme
A palette of Tan, Dark Tan, and White, reflecting the desert environment of Tatooine. Accents in Dark Grey and Brown provide mechanical detail appropriate for a podracer pilot.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. Notable for 360-degree waist printing (front to back alignment) and detailed torso layering. The lines are crisp, especially the small 'controls' on the chest pocket.
Variants
Standard variations include the 1999 classic (yellow skin), the 2011 version (sw0327) with different torso shading, and the 20th Anniversary version (sw1030) which features a classic yellow face and anniversary back printing.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the white hands (susceptible to dirt/staining) and the friction on the neck peg. The short legs have no moving parts, so they are generally durable, but the torso corners can chip if dropped on hard surfaces.
Estimated Value
New/Mint: $12-$18; Used Complete: $7-$10. Values remain stable due to the high volume of Anakin variants, though 'The Phantom Menace' collectors keep the floor price steady.
Price (New)
Originated in sets ranging from $29.99 (Flash Speeder) to roughly $10.00 (Microfighters), making him an affordable entry point for Star Wars fans at release.
Compatible Sets
75091 (Flash Speeder), 75092 (Naboo Starfighter), and 75071 (AAT - though often confused with the Microfighter pilot).
Character Background
Represents Anakin Skywalker as a 9-year-old slave and talented pilot on Tatooine. This specific look captures his appearance during the Boonta Eve Classic podrace and the subsequent Battle of Naboo.
Design Notes
The use of short legs perfectly captures the height of the child actor (Jake Lloyd). This 2015 version is a significant graphical upgrade from the 1999 original, using modern 'flesh' tones and more accurate fabric textures.
Similar Minifigures
sw0327 (Anakin with different goggles), sw0493 (Junior Anakin), and sw1030 (20th Anniversary Anakin).
Collectibility
Moderate. It is a staple for any 'Skywalker Saga' collection. While not an investment 'grail', it is seeing a slight uptick in interest due to the 25th anniversary of Episode I.
History
Anakin was one of the first licensed minifigures in 1999. This 2015 iteration represents the 'mid-era' refinement where LEGO mastered the balance between movie accuracy and the classic toy aesthetic.
Interesting Facts
The goggle mold used here is a design that has been repurposed for various City aviators and even some Steampunk-themed fan builds. Despite being 'short,' this figure is technically the most important character in the Star Wars lore.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a 2x2 brick stand next to a Naboo Starfighter or a custom podracer MOC. Pair with a young Obi-Wan Kenobi (sw0629) for a complete 'Phantom Menace' shelf.
Modification Potential
The head and hair/goggle combo are very popular for creating custom WWI-era pilot minifigures or 'Dieselpunk' characters in the MOC community.
Overall Assessment
A solid, high-detail representation of a cinematic icon. It’s an essential 'Year 1' Anakin for any completionist, offering great printing quality at a reasonable secondary market price.