Jar Jar Binks (Tan)
sw0017 · Star Wars
Episode I: The Phantom Menace · 1999 (First release in set 7121 Naboo Swamp)
Figure ID
sw0017
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
1999 (First release in set 7121 Naboo Swamp)
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it was widely produced during the launch of LEGO Star Wars, it has been retired for over 20 years, making high-quality specimens harder to find.
Head
Unique molded tan Gungan head piece with integral long ears and eyes located on stalks. It does not use standard minifigure printing; the mold itself provides the facial structure.
Torso
Tan torso with black and brown printing depicting a vest over a simple tunic. The arms are tan and the hands are tan.
Legs
Tan unprinted legs with tan hips. This is the classic 1999 version; later versions introduced printing.
Accessories
Usually paired with a trans-neon green Gungan Booma or a gray spear, though none are pictured in the provided image.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic Tan (Brick Yellow) with dark brown and black line-art printing on the torso.
Printing Details
Basic single-sided torso printing typical of the late 90s. The lines are thick and simplified compared to modern high-definition digital printing.
Variants
The sw0017 (tan) is the original. Later variants include sw0301 (2011) with printed legs and updated eyes, and sw0500 with more detailed torso/leg printing.
Condition Notes
Prone to loose neck joints due to the weight and leverage of the large molded head. Look for stress marks on the torso sides and fading of the black torso lines.
Estimated Value
Used: $5 - $8 USD | New (extracted): $15 - $22 USD. Prices vary based on the tightness of joints and lack of play wear.
Price (New)
N/A (Individually). It originally appeared in sets ranging from the $10 Naboo Swamp (7121) to the $100 Trade Federation MTT (7184).
Compatible Sets
7121 Naboo Swamp, 7159 Star Wars Podracing Bucket, 7161 Gungan Sub, 7171 Mos Espa Podrace, 7115 Gungan Patrol, 7184 Trade Federation MTT.
Character Background
Jar Jar Binks is a Gungan from the planet Naboo who becomes a pivotal (and controversial) figure in the Prequel Trilogy, eventually serving as a Galactic Senator.
Design Notes
This was one of the first LEGO minifigures to feature a unique, non-standard head mold, marking a shift away from the classic smiley face for licensed themes.
Similar Minifigures
Gungan Soldier (sw0018), Captain Tarpals, and the updated 2011 Jar Jar Binks (sw0301).
Collectibility
High nostalgia factor. As one of the original 1999 Star Wars figures, it is a staple for collectors of the 'Classic' Star Wars line despite the character's polarized reputation.
History
Debuted in 1999 as part of the initial LEGO Star Wars launch. This specific design remained the standard for the character for over a decade.
Interesting Facts
The head piece is made of a slightly rubberized plastic compared to the harder ABS plastic used for the torso and legs to prevent the thin ear pieces from snapping.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a 1999-era Star Wars lineup or in a Naboo Swamp MOC using trans-clear blue plates to simulate water.
Modification Potential
The head piece is frequently used by MOC builders to create other Gungan characters or custom 'Darth Jar Jar' variants.
Overall Assessment
An iconic piece of LEGO history. While the printing is simple by today's standards, its status as a 'Wave 1' Star Wars figure makes it an essential part of any specialized collection.