Dr. Brains
pha001 · Pharaoh's Quest
Adventure · 2011 - Primary release year for the Pharaoh's Quest line
Figure ID
pha001
Theme
Pharaoh's Quest
Year Released
2011 - Primary release year for the Pharaoh's Quest line
Rarity
Uncommon - Exclusive to three sets within a short-lived theme (2011)
Head
Yellow skin with brown hair (side-swept sweep part). Printing features blue glasses with light reflections, reddish-brown eyebrows, and a small smirk.
Torso
White lab coat over an orange shirt and lavender undershirt; includes printing of a pen and a test tube in the pocket. Plain white arms and yellow hands.
Legs
Dark blue unprinted legs and hips.
Accessories
Typically comes with a black binocular or tools; the black rifle/accessory shown in the user image is an addition/swap as it was not his primary accessory in most sets.
Color Scheme
White, Orange, and Dark Blue. The lab coat design uses high-contrast colors for a classic scientist/researcher look.
Printing Details
Pad-printed torso with sharp detail on the pocket contents (pen and tube). Single-sided head printing characteristic of the early 2010s era.
Variants
Standard version (pha001) is the only official variant, though his head has appeared in City sets representing generic nerds or scientists.
Condition Notes
Prone to torso cracks under the arms and fading of the printing on the lab coat lapels. Yellowing of the white torso can occur if exposed to sunlight.
Estimated Value
Used: $3.00 - $6.00 USD; New/Mint: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Prices are stable due to the cult following of the Pharaoh's Quest theme.
Price (New)
Included in sets ranging from $14.99 (7306) to $99.99 (7327). Never sold as a standalone figure.
Compatible Sets
7306 Golden Staff Guardians, 7326 Rise of the Sphinx, 7327 Scorpion Pyramid.
Character Background
The lead researcher and tech specialist for the Pharaoh's Quest team. He is the intellectual foil to the more rugged Jake Raines.
Design Notes
The torso print is highly coveted for custom 'scientist' minifigures. It is one of the more detailed lab coat prints LEGO produced during that period.
Similar Minifigures
Prof. Albert (Adventurers), Dr. Articus (Dino Attack), and various LEGO City Scientists.
Collectibility
High for completionists of the Pharaoh's Quest/Adventurers lineage. He is a key protagonist of a short-lived but beloved theme.
History
Part of LEGO's attempt to revive the adventure genre following the success of the Indiana Jones license and the legacy of the Johnny Thunder era.
Interesting Facts
Despite his name 'Dr. Brains,' he is often depicted in promotional material as being somewhat physically overwhelmed by the supernatural threats of the theme.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with a magnifying glass or next to the 7326 Sphinx. Keep out of direct UV light to protect the white plastic.
Modification Potential
Excellent; the torso is frequently used for custom Breaking Bad, Jurassic Park, or medical MOCs.
Overall Assessment
A solid, charming minifigure that perfectly captures the 'academic explorer' archetype. Rating: 7/10.