SpongeBob SquarePants - Polka Dot Shirt and Tie (Humanoid/Alternate Version)
bob021 · SpongeBob SquarePants
Nickelodeon Animation · 2009
Figure ID
bob021
Theme
SpongeBob SquarePants
Year Released
2009
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While the theme was popular, this specific stylized version of SpongeBob appeared in only one set and was a departure from his standard square-mold appearance.
Head
Classic LEGO cylinder head in yellow. Printing features SpongeBob's eyes, green-rimmed glasses, and a small smirk. Includes a Tan Swept Back Hair piece (Part 4022).
Torso
White torso with short yellow arms. Front printing features a light blue polka dot pattern, a white collar, and a blue and orange diagonally striped necktie. Back is typically unprinted.
Legs
Dark Blue short legs with yellow 'skin' visible at the top. Printing includes the bottom of his shorts and white shoes/socks detail at the feet.
Accessories
None included with the individual figure in this set, though the accompanying build included a DJ booth and speakers.
Color Scheme
Primary colors include Yellow, White, and Dark Blue, with accent colors of Light Blue, Orange, and Green. This reflects SpongeBob's vibrant, colorful underwater aesthetic.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The polka dot pattern is uniform and the stripes on the tie are sharp. The leg printing 'socks' are a signature detail of the later SpongeBob figures.
Variants
This is a 'humanoid' or 'minifigure-style' variant of SpongeBob. Most other versions use the custom molded rectangular 3D body (Part 53549). This version was meant to represent him in a specific 'party' or 'fancy' context.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the neck of the torso cracking and the printing on the short legs wearing off at the feet. The yellow head is prone to light scratches.
Estimated Value
$15.00 - $25.00 USD for a used version in good condition. New/unplayed versions can fetch up to $35.00+ depending on the market.
Price (New)
Originally released in set 3834 which retailed for $29.99 USD in 2009.
Compatible Sets
3834 Good Neighbors at Bikini Bottom (2009).
Character Background
SpongeBob SquarePants is the optimistic protagonist of the Nickelodeon series. This specific outfit is inspired by his attire in the episode 'The Slumber Party' and the general 'Bikini Bottom' party aesthetic.
Design Notes
The use of a standard minifigure head and torso instead of the specialized square mold is a unique design choice intended to show SpongeBob in a more 'standard' LEGO format for the party scene.
Similar Minifigures
SpongeBob (bob001), Patrick Star (pat011), Squidward Tentacles (squ011), and the LEGO Series 4 'Geek' for the glasses design.
Collectibility
High for SpongeBob fans and completionists. The SpongeBob license ended in 2012 (moving to Mega Bloks), making official LEGO versions highly desirable today.
History
LEGO SpongeBob ran from 2006 to 2012. This 2009 release represented the middle era of the theme where more creative character variants were introduced beyond the standard looks.
Interesting Facts
This is one of the very few times SpongeBob was depicted with a standard cylinder head rather than his iconic square-shaped torso/head combo mold.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the standard square-bodied SpongeBob to show the contrast in design. Ideal for a Bikini Bottom diorama or a 'history of licensed themes' cabinet.
Modification Potential
The head with glasses is popular for custom 'nerd' or 'office worker' minifigures. The polka dot torso is also sought after for custom civilian figures.
Overall Assessment
A unique and charming departure from the standard SpongeBob mold. It is a standout piece for any collector of the Nickelodeon line due to its 'humanoid' proportions and exclusive prints.