Nova (Sam Alexander)
sh051 · Marvel Super Heroes
Ultimate Spider-Man (Marvel Universe) · 2013
Figure ID
sh051
Theme
Marvel Super Heroes
Year Released
2013
Rarity
Uncommon. While only appearing in one retail set, the set was widely available. However, as the character has not been remade in over a decade, the figure is becoming increasingly difficult to find in mint condition.
Head
Double-sided head; one side features a determined smirk, the other a battle-ready shouting expression. Detailed with white eyes and brown eyebrows. Skin tone is light flesh.
Torso
Bright blue torso with specialized Nova Corps armor printing on both front and back. Features the iconic gold three-circle energy emblem, metallic silver plating, and black tech-detailing. Blue arms and flat silver hands.
Legs
Plain dark blue legs. No printing on the front, sides, or hips.
Accessories
Includes a unique Pearl Flat Silver helmet with a gold and red four-pointed star (Nova Star) printed on the forehead. This helmet mold was specifically designed for this character and includes a integrated chin strap/jaw guard.
Color Scheme
A vibrant palette of Bright Blue, Dark Blue, and Pearl Flat Silver, accented by Metallic Gold and Red on the helmet and torso printing.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso and helmet. The star on the helmet is precisely aligned with the mold's crest. No leg printing, which was common for mid-tier Marvel sets during this era.
Variants
None. This is the only physical LEGO minifigure of Sam Alexander's Nova ever produced.
Condition Notes
The silver printing on the helmet and the gold energy circles on the chest are prone to scratching. The helmet's thin chin bar can suffer from stress marks if forced onto heads too aggressively.
Estimated Value
Used: $12.00 - $18.00; New (taken from sealed set): $25.00 - $35.00. Value has trended upwards as rumors of the character's MCU debut persist.
Price (New)
Available in set 76005 (Daily Bugle Showdown) which retailed for $49.99 USD in 2013.
Compatible Sets
76005 Daily Bugle Showdown (2013).
Character Background
Based on Sam Alexander, the younger Nova from the Marvel Universe. This version gained major popularity through the 'Ultimate Spider-Man' animated series, where he was a member of Nick Fury's S.H.I.E.L.D. training program alongside Spider-Man.
Design Notes
The helmet is the standout piece; its unique mold perfectly captures the comic book silhouette. The use of flat silver hands rather than yellow or blue successfully mimics the gauntlet-style look of his uniform.
Similar Minifigures
Nova Corps Officer (sh123), Star-Lord (sh127), and Captain Marvel (sh555) share similar cosmic/intergalactic superhero vibes.
Collectibility
High. Since he is a 'named' hero with only one release, he is a 'check-box' figure for both Marvel Completionists and Spider-Verse collectors.
History
Released during the first major expansion of the Marvel theme beyond just 'The Avengers' film line, part of a wave focusing on TV-centric characters like Iron Fist and White Tiger.
Interesting Facts
Despite the Nova Corps appearing in the Guardians of the Galaxy films, LEGO has never released a movie-accurate Sam Alexander or Richard Rider, leaving this 2013 version as the definitive Nova minifigure.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed flying on a transparent posing stand alongside other 'Ultimate Spider-Man' teammates like Iron Fist, Luke Cage, and White Tiger.
Modification Potential
Collectors often swap the plain dark blue legs for dual-molded blue/silver legs or printed legs from the Nova Corps Officer (sh123) to upgrade the figure's detail level.
Overall Assessment
An excellent mid-era Marvel minifigure. The unique helmet mold makes it a standout. While the lack of leg printing is a minor drawback, the torso and headgear accuracy make it a must-have for Marvel fans.