Gamorrean Guard (Detailed Pattern)
sw0405 · Star Wars
Episode VI: Return of the Jedi · 2012 (Debuted in set 9516 Jabba's Palace)
Figure ID
sw0405
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2012 (Debuted in set 9516 Jabba's Palace)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While not exclusive to a single set, its appearance in high-priced sets like Jabba’s Palace (9516) and the UCS Jabba’s Sail Barge (75397) makes it highly sought after.
Head
Unique molded Olive Green head/helmet piece with printed eyes, tusks, and a dark brown skullcap. The mold features characteristic porcine snout and ears.
Torso
Tan and Copper printing on an Olive Green base. Design features a leather-like vest with buckle and strap detailing. Back is printed with continued vest texture.
Legs
Dark Brown unprinted legs. Note: Some versions or photo angles may appear Dark Red, but official sw0405 uses Dark Brown to represent the character's loincloth/fur.
Accessories
Typically comes with a silver halberd (axe) and often a second shorter axe. The image shown is missing these hand-held accessories.
Color Scheme
Primary Olive Green skin, Tan/Copper armor, and Dark Brown lower body. This earthy palette accurately reflects the character's movie appearance.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso. The head utilizes a specialized dual-molded effect where the helmet area and face are part of one complex piece with distinct paint apps.
Variants
This is the 'detailed' 2012 version. It differs significantly from the 2003 'classic' version (sw0075) which had a simpler mold and bright green skin.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the tusks on the head mold which can suffer paint chips, and the torso side-seams. Sand Green or Olive Green plastic can occasionally show stress marks.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $12 - $18 USD; New/Mint: $22+ USD. Prices have spiked recently due to the 2024 UCS Sail Barge release causing renewed interest in Palace guards.
Price (New)
Originally included in set 9516 (Retail $119.99) and later set 75005 (Retail $59.99).
Compatible Sets
9516 Jabba's Palace (2012); 75005 Rancor Pit (2013); 75397 Jabba's Sail Barge (2024 version utilizes a very similar design).
Character Background
Gamorreans are pig-like humanoids from the planet Gamorr. They served as Jabba the Hutt's primary muscle and palace guards in Return of the Jedi.
Design Notes
The 2012 redesign was a massive leap forward in LEGO Star Wars accuracy, moving away from 'kiddy' aesthetics to a more gritty, realistic representation of the creature.
Similar Minifigures
sw0075 (Original Gamorrean), Weequay Guard (sw0487), Ree-Yees (sw0483).
Collectibility
High. Gamorrean guards are 'army builders', meaning collectors often want two or four of them to flank a Jabba figure, keeping demand consistent.
History
First introduced in 2003 with the first Jabba's Palace. This 2012 update remained the gold standard for over a decade before being slightly updated for the 2024 UCS set.
Interesting Facts
The head piece is one of the few LEGO elements that functions as both the head and the headgear simultaneously, as the 'hat' is molded into the skull.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in pairs alongside a Jabba the Hutt figure or at the entrance of a Palace MOC. Use a tan baseplate to simulate the desert floor of Tatooine.
Modification Potential
Excellent for fantasy MOCs as Orcs or Trolls. The head mold is frequently used by customizers to create other porcine fantasy races.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier Star Wars minifigure. Its unique mold and accurate colors make it a standout. It is highly recommended for any Star Wars fan, especially those focusing on the Original Trilogy.