Dash Rendar
sw001a · Star Wars
Shadows of the Empire · 1996 (First appearance, this iteration 1996/custom assembly)
Figure ID
sw001a
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
1996 (First appearance, this iteration 1996/custom assembly)
Rarity
Very Rare. Dash Rendar is a legendary figure in LEGO Star Wars history because he was never technically mass-produced in a standard retail set. This figure is primarily composed of parts from the 1996 Star Wars 'Shadows of the Empire' expansion line, specifically associated with the Outrider, though most collectors recognize him as a 'built' figure from that era's limited distribution.
Head
Light flesh tone with printed brown eyebrows, a slight smirk, and a ginger/brown soul patch and sideburns. The head piece is a standard face from the late 90s/early 2000s era.
Torso
Dark orange vest over a white shirt, with brown utility straps and belt printing. The arms are tan, representing his sleeves, and the hands are light flesh. Back printing exists but is minimal, focusing on the continuation of the utility vest.
Legs
Dark blue legs with a brown holster printed on the right thigh. The printing is simple, consistent with the late 1990s LEGO aesthetic.
Accessories
Includes the iconic 'Shadows of the Empire' heavy armor/breath mask piece in tan/white, which fits over the neck. This specific mold is highly sought after by collectors of 90s Star Wars LEGO.
Color Scheme
A rugged palette of dark orange, tan, and dark blue, reflecting the smuggler aesthetic of the character. Metallic silver accents are present on the belt buckle and armor detailing.
Printing Details
Classic pad printing. High contrast but lower resolution compared to modern 2020s standards. There is no arm or side-leg printing, which is period-accurate for a mid-90s design.
Variants
The primary variant differences usually involve the color of the hair underneath the helmet or the specific shade of the orange torso (fading over time). No official LEGO modern remake exists.
Condition Notes
The white plastic of the neck armor and helmet is highly prone to yellowing (UV damage). Check for cracks in the torso sides and heels of the legs. The 'soul patch' printing on the face often rubs off with play.
Estimated Value
Highly variable due to rarity; approximately $150.00 - $300.00 USD for a complete figure in excellent condition. Used/incomplete figures may sell for $80.00 - $120.00.
Price (New)
N/A as a standalone purchase; originally part of the 1996 promotional cycle or bundled in vintage Outrider-related collections which retailed around $40.00 - $60.00 at the time.
Compatible Sets
Technically unofficial in modern databases, but most closely associated with custom interpretations of 6211 Imperial Star Destroyer or MOC Outrider builds.
Character Background
Dash Rendar is the protagonist of 'Shadows of the Empire,' a core part of the Star Wars 'Legends' continuity. He is a smuggler and mercenary, pilot of the Outrider, and an ally to Han Solo.
Design Notes
The chest armor is a unique mold that was revolutionary for its time, providing a 'bulky' look that standard flat printing could not achieve. It remains a hallmark of 90s LEGO design.
Similar Minifigures
Classic Han Solo (sw0015), Lando Calrissian (Skiff Guard sw0007), and modern versions of Cassian Andor or Poe Dameron.
Collectibility
Extremely high. Dash Rendar is a 'holy grail' for fans of the Expanded Universe (Legends) and collectors who specialize in the 1990s era of LEGO Star Wars.
History
Released during a time when LEGO Star Wars was in its infancy and exploring the 'Shadows of the Empire' multimedia project. This figure represents the transition from classic town figures to character-specific licensed IP.
Interesting Facts
Despite his popularity in the N64 game and novels, Dash Rendar has never been updated with a modern 2010s or 2020s minifigure, making this vintage version the only way to represent the character.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside an N64 cartridge of 'Shadows of the Empire' or in a UV-protected case with other 1999-era Star Wars figures like the original Luke and Vader.
Modification Potential
The head and torso are often used in 'purist' customs to create other 90s expanded universe characters like Kyle Katarn.
Overall Assessment
A masterpiece of nostalgic LEGO design. While it lacks the detail of modern prints, the unique armor and rarity make it a 10/10 for serious collectors. Buy immediately if the white parts are still crisp and not yellowed.