Emperor Palpatine (Yellowish Flesh, Light Bluish Gray Eyes)
sw1145 · Star Wars
The Skywalker Saga / Return of the Jedi · First released in 2021 as part of the 75291 Death Star Final Duel set update, this version reflects the modern era of high-detail Star Wars figures.
Figure ID
sw1145
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
First released in 2021 as part of the 75291 Death Star Final Duel set update, this version reflects the modern era of high-detail Star Wars figures.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. It is restricted to larger, more expensive playsets and dioramas, making it less accessible than common infantry figures.
Head
Dual-sided yellowish-flesh head featuring Sith light bluish gray eyes with dark orange pupils. One side has a malevolent grin, the other a grimacing expression, both with heavy wrinkled detailing.
Torso
Black torso with detailed robe printing. The design includes light bluish gray highlights depicting the folds of his Sith robes and a clasp at the neckline. Back printing continues the robe texture.
Legs
Black legs with printing that continues the pleated robe design from the torso. This adds a sense of flow and continuity to the garment not seen in earlier plain-leg versions.
Accessories
Includes two Trans-Light Blue lightning bolt elements (Force Lightning), a black spongy fabric cape, and a black textured hood piece (molded to fit the cape properly).
Color Scheme
A dominant monochrome black palette representing the Sith, accented with yellowish-flesh skin tones and vibrant Trans-Light Blue for the Force effects.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing with excellent alignment. Features intricate facial creases and fine-line robe detailing on the front and back of the torso and front of the legs.
Variants
This specific variant (sw1145) has yellowish-flesh skin; earlier versions used dark tan or pale gray. It is distinct from the 2023 version (sw1272) found in the Endor Throne Room diorama.
Condition Notes
The spongy cape is prone to fraying at the edges or stretching at the neck holes. The black plastic shows scratches and 'play wear' easily under bright light.
Estimated Value
New/Sealed: $12 - $18 USD. Used: $8 - $12 USD. Value is mostly concentrated in the head and torso prints.
Price (New)
Originally included in sets ranging from $89.99 to $99.99 USD retail; not available as a standalone purchase or $4.99 CMF.
Compatible Sets
75291 Death Star Final Duel (2020/21) and 75352 Emperor's Throne Room Diorama (similar variant sw1272).
Character Background
Sheev Palpatine, the Dark Lord of the Sith and Emperor of the Galactic Empire. This figure represents his appearance during the climax of Return of the Jedi.
Design Notes
Uses the newer 'spongy' fabric for the cape which allows for better posing. The hood is a specific mold that provides a shadowed effect over the brow without obscuring the eyes.
Similar Minifigures
Palpatine sw0634 (2015 version), Darth Sidious sw0210 (Classic), and Emperor Palpatine sw1272 (2023 version with updated eyes).
Collectibility
High. As a primary antagonist of the Star Wars franchise, specific versions of Palpatine always maintain steady demand from both set collectors and army builders.
History
Palpatine debuted in 2002 with a yellow head. He evolved through gray and tan skin tones before settling on this modern yellowish-flesh tone to match current LEGO Star Wars aesthetics.
Interesting Facts
The lightning pieces were originally introduced for the DC Super Heroes line before becoming the standard 'Force Lightning' accessory for Sith characters.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a raised platform or a brick-built throne. Use a back-lighting effect to catch the Trans-Light Blue lightning pieces for a dramatic look.
Modification Potential
Excellent for MOCs of the Sith Temple on Exegol. The head can be swapped onto older gray-skin torsos for a 'zombie-like' Rise of Skywalker appearance.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier representation of the character. Its detailed printing and iconic accessories make it the definitive 'modern' Emperor for any Star Wars collection.