Shadow Trooper (Dual Molded Helmet)
sw1031 · Star Wars
Star Wars 20th Anniversary Edition · Released in 2019. It debuted in the 75262 Imperial Dropship – 20th Anniversary Edition set, marking a significant update to the classic 2008 version during LEGO's celebration of two decades of Star Wars products.
Figure ID
sw1031
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
Released in 2019. It debuted in the 75262 Imperial Dropship – 20th Anniversary Edition set, marking a significant update to the classic 2008 version during LEGO's celebration of two decades of Star Wars products.
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limited-run exclusive, this specific version was only available in two sets from 2019. The dual-molded helmet makes it more desirable than previous 'all-black' versions.
Head
Features a standard light flesh-toned 'Angry Clone' face (sw0001 variant) underneath the helmet. The headgear is a revolutionary Pearl Dark Gray and Black dual-molded Stormtrooper helmet, which uses two plastics injected together rather than just printing.
Torso
Pearl Dark Gray with Black printing. The design mimics the 2019 Stormtrooper blast vest, with detailed utility belt and pectoral chest plate outlines. No arm printing, but hands are solid Black.
Legs
Pearl Dark Gray with Black hip piece. Printing includes knee protection plates and utility pouches consistent with the 2019 armor redesign. No side leg printing.
Accessories
Typically includes a stud shooter or a standard black blaster (not pictured in the user image). The primary 'accessory' is the high-detail dual-molded helmet which is the centerpiece of the figure.
Color Scheme
Dominantly Pearl Dark Gray (Metallic) and Black. This 'Shadow' aesthetic is designed to resemble the stealth troopers of the Galactic Empire's elite units.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso and legs. The standout feature is the dual-molded helmet which ensures the black 'eye' and 'vent' areas are perfectly aligned and cannot be scratched off easily compared to standard printing.
Variants
This is the 2019 updated version. It differs from sw0166 (2008) which had a simpler solid black helmet and sw0166a (2014) which used a different print pattern. Another minor variant exists with a different internal head print.
Condition Notes
The Pearl Dark Gray plastic is prone to visible scratches and 'swirl' marks from factory cooling. Check for 'helmet wobble' or a loose fit on the neck peg, and inspect for silvering wear on the torso edges.
Estimated Value
Approximately $8 - $12 USD used; $15 - $20 USD in new condition. Prices are stable but rising as 20th Anniversary sets become harder to find.
Price (New)
Included in set 75262 which retailed for $19.99 USD. This set included 5 minifigures, making the value-per-figure approximately $4 at retail.
Compatible Sets
75262 Imperial Dropship – 20th Anniversary Edition (2019) and 75252 Imperial Star Destroyer (as a micro-scale crew member/display addition).
Character Background
Shadow Troopers (or Blackhole Stormtroopers) are elite, stealth-focused soldiers of the Galactic Empire. They first appeared in Star Wars expanded universe lore and were canonized through appearances in Battlefront and various comics.
Design Notes
This figure represents the 'modern' Stormtrooper mold era. The dual-molding technique was controversial among fans because it makes the helmet look slightly larger ('bulky') than the original 1999-2018 molds, but it offers superior color separation.
Similar Minifigures
sw0166 (Classic Shadow Trooper), sw0585 (Stormtrooper), and the sw1114 (Imperial Death Trooper).
Collectibility
Medium-High. It is a staple for 'Army Builders' who want to create squads of elite troopers. Its status as part of the 20th Anniversary wave adds historical value to collectors.
History
Follows the evolution of the Shadow Trooper from its 2008 debut. It transitioned from solid black to pearl dark gray to better reflect the 'metallic' stealth coating described in Star Wars lore.
Interesting Facts
Despite being named 'Shadow Trooper', the plastic color is officially Pearl Dark Gray, not Black. This is the first time the Shadow Trooper received the controversial 'oversized' dual-molded helmet mold.
Display Suggestions
Looks best in a squad formation or flanking an Emperor Palpatine minifigure. Use white or light gray baseplates to make the dark metallic armor pop visually.
Modification Potential
Excellent torso and legs for custom Mandalorian or Bounty Hunter 'MOCs'. The helmet is frequently swapped by purist collectors for the older, smaller mold style.
Overall Assessment
A high-quality, modern update to a fan-favorite trooper. The dual-molded helmet is a feat of engineering, even if the proportions are polarizing. A must-have for Imperial army collectors.