T-Rex Costume Fan
col381 · Collectible Minifigures
Series 24 (71037) · 2023. This minifigure debuted in January as part of LEGO's shift to the modern blind-bag packaging style just before the transition to cardboard boxes. It fits the 'costume character' tradition which has become a staple of the CMF line since Series 3.
Figure ID
col381
Theme
Collectible Minifigures
Year Released
2023. This minifigure debuted in January as part of LEGO's shift to the modern blind-bag packaging style just before the transition to cardboard boxes. It fits the 'costume character' tradition which has become a staple of the CMF line since Series 3.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. Being part of a blind bag series, it was widely available upon release, but as Series 24 is now retired, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find at retail prices. The T-Rex is often a 'chase' figure for army builders.
Head
The figure features a dual-sided head with a 'classic' yellow face: one side has a determined grin and the other has a shocked/roaring expression. The standout piece is the white T-Rex head mask with pink eyes, grey snout printing, and a large open mouth where the minifigure face is visible.
Torso
The torso features white printing with a mechanical, robotic T-Rex suit design. It includes a blue 'arc reactor' style glowing core, grey rib-like structures, and orange triangle accents. The arms are white with grey armor plating prints, and the hands are black.
Legs
White legs with extensive printing. The hips and upper legs feature tech-armor detailing consistent with the torso. A unique detail is the printing on the feet, which depicts three grey robotic dinosaur claws on each foot.
Accessories
Essentially, the 'mask' and the 'tail' (which attaches at the hip) are the primary accessories. The tail is a specialized white mold with grey technical printing to match the suit's aesthetic. It also comes with a standard black 3x4 CMF display stand.
Color Scheme
The primary color is white, accented by medium azure/blue for the power core, dark grey for the mechanical joints, and light grey for the claw details. The eyes are a distinct metallic pink.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing covers the front and back of the torso, the arms, the front of the legs, the feet, and the tail. The alignment of the mechanical lines from the torso to the hips is a key indicator of quality.
Variants
There are no known production variants of this specific Series 24 figure. However, it is a direct 'cyborg' or 'mecha' reimagining of the classic Series 5 Dinosaur Guy and the Series 13 Hot Dog Man-style costume molds.
Condition Notes
The most common wear points are the tail attachment (stress marks on the ring) and the paint on the snout of the mask. The white plastic is prone to yellowing if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $6.00 USD. New (sealed in original foil bag): $7.00 - $10.00 USD. Value is stable but seeing a slight upward trend as Series 24 stock disappears from shelves.
Price (New)
Original retail price was $4.99 USD per blind bag. It was one of 12 figures available in the Series 24 collection.
Compatible Sets
71037 Collectible Minifigures Series 24 (2023). It does not appear in any standard retail building sets.
Character Background
Part of the long-running 'Costume Fan' sub-series within CMF, this character represents a LEGO fan wearing a high-tech, futuristic Tyrannosaurus Rex suit. Unlike previous animal suits, this one implies a Sci-Fi or 'Mecha' theme.
Design Notes
The use of the dinosaur head mold (first seen in the Series 5 Dino Suit Ace) with tech-themed printing represents a creative reuse of existing molds. The arm and foot printing are particularly detailed for a standard CMF.
Similar Minifigures
Dino Suit Ace (Series 5), Dragon Suit Guy (Series 18), Triceratops Costume Fan (Series 25), and the Robot Warrior (Series 24).
Collectibility
High. Costume characters are some of the most collected figures in the CMF line. The sci-fi bend of this specific figure makes it popular with both costume collectors and Space/Mecha enthusiasts.
History
Released in the first wave of 2023, this figure was part of the penultimate series to use plastic foil bags before LEGO transitioned to environmentally friendly cardboard boxes in late 2023.
Interesting Facts
The 'power core' on the chest is a direct visual nod to Iron Man's arc reactor, suggesting this is a motorized or powered suit rather than just a cloth costume.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside other 'Costume Fans' or within a futuristic 'Hall of Armor.' Using a tiered acrylic case helps show off the tail piece, which is often hidden in front-facing displays.
Modification Potential
The head mask and tail are excellent for custom 'Mecha-Dino' MOCs. The torso and legs can be used for custom futuristic astronauts or sci-fi soldiers by swapping the head.
Overall Assessment
9/10. An excellent example of LEGO's ability to refresh a classic concept with new printing and a creative theme. Highly recommended for any CMF collector due to its high print density and unique accessories.