Lex Luthor (Shorts / Plaid Shirt)
sh012b · Super Heroes
DC Universe · 2012 (First release in set 6862)
Figure ID
sh012b
Theme
Super Heroes
Year Released
2012 (First release in set 6862)
Rarity
Uncommon. While the set was widely available, this specific torso was unique to this set for several years and restricted to the DC theme.
Head
Light Nougat, headpiece is printed with Lex Luthor's signature bald look, featuring thick black eyebrows and a stern, determined expression. Note: This specific head was heavily used for various licensed and unlicensed characters.
Torso
Dark Blue Torso with Dark Red and Dark Blue Plaid pattern (flannel style) over a Lime Green undershirt. This torso is highly sought after by MOC (My Own Creation) builders for its civilian look.
Legs
Olive Green legs (standard height), plain with no printing. The hip piece color matches the legs.
Accessories
Missing in image. Originally came with a brick-built Kryptonite gun using a translucent green crystal and metallic silver hilt.
Color Scheme
A mix of Dark Blue, Dark Red, and Olive Green. This represents the character's 'civilian' tactical or billionaire-at-rest attire rather than his power suit.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso front and back. The plaid lines are crisp and aligned across the chest. There is no arm or leg printing.
Variants
sh012 (original) has a slightly different skin tone or plastic batch; sh485 is Lex in his Superman-Suit; sh223 is Lex in his mechanical power suit.
Condition Notes
The Dark Blue torso is prone to showing micro-scratches. Check for 'torso cracks' on the sides under the arms, common in this era of plastic. The back printing on the plaid shirt is often a wear-point.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $5.00 - $8.00 USD; New/Mint: $10.00 - $12.00 USD. Individual torso piece is often worth 60% of total value.
Price (New)
Included in set 6862 'Superman vs. Power Armor Lex' which retailed for $19.99 USD in 2012.
Compatible Sets
6862-2: Superman vs. Power Armor Lex (2012)
Character Background
Lex Luthor is Superman's arch-nemesis, a genius billionaire. This design represents him in casual or field gear before he dons his iconic green and purple power armor.
Design Notes
This is a 'purist' design by LEGO, using a torso that looks like a standard city item to represent a high-profile villain, which was a common design choice in the early 2010s.
Similar Minifigures
sh012 (Light nougat variant), sh092 (Man of Steel version), generic LEGO City hikers using the same plaid torso.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is essential for a complete DC Universe collection but is often overshadowed by the more detailed 'Power Suit' variants.
History
Part of the first major wave of LEGO DC Super Heroes in 2012. It marked the transition from the old Batman-only line to the broader DC Universe line.
Interesting Facts
The torso was so popular for its realistic plaid look that it has been used by fans to create custom figures of characters from 'The Last of Us' and 'Jurassic Park'.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed inside the 6862 Power Armor mech or standing next to a Superman figure for height contrast. Use a clear baseplate to emphasize the Olive Green legs.
Modification Potential
Excellent for civilian MOCs. The head is easily swappable to create a generic angry city dweller or a custom Luke Hobbs (Fast & Furious).
Overall Assessment
A solid, classic-era Super Heroes minifigure. While simple, the torso design remains one of the best 'plaid' prints LEGO has ever produced. Rating: 7/10.