Series 25 - Film Noir Detective (The Detective)
col25-1 · Collectible Minifigures (CMF)
Series 25 (71045) · 2024. This figure debuted in January 2024 as part of the first CMF wave of the year, continuing LEGO's move toward paper-box packaging to increase sustainability.
Figure ID
col25-1
Theme
Collectible Minifigures (CMF)
Year Released
2024. This figure debuted in January 2024 as part of the first CMF wave of the year, continuing LEGO's move toward paper-box packaging to increase sustainability.
Rarity
Uncommon. As a modern CMF released in blind boxes, it is theoretically 'common' within its production window, but specific figures are hard to find without scanning Data Matrix codes or buying the full set.
Head
Double-sided monochrome (light bluish gray) head. One side features a stern, analytical look with a monocle/magnifying glass glare, and the other shows a determined grin. Includes a classic fedora crown part.
Torso
Monochrome light bluish gray torso with detailed film noir-style trench coat printing in shades of gray and black. Includes detailed lapels, buttons, and a belt print.
Legs
Standard height legs in light bluish gray with trench coat tail printing and dark gray boots. Minimalist but stylistically consistent with the noir theme.
Accessories
Includes a red herring (a clever visual pun) and a magnifying glass. The red herring is a bright red fish piece which contrasts heavily with the monochrome figure.
Color Scheme
Strictly monochrome (grays, black, white) with the exception of the bright red 'red herring' accessory and the yellow hand tool part.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the CMF line. The trench coat details are sharp. The Data Matrix code on the box shown in the image (6623274 / 6469559) specifically identifies this figure inside.
Variants
There are no official variants of this specific Series 25 figure. It is a unique design within the CMF history, though it pays homage to older Detective figures.
Condition Notes
Being a 2024 release, the primary concern is the box condition. The paper boxes are easily crushed. Inside, figures are generally mint unless there is a rare factory defect in the plastic.
Estimated Value
$5.00 - $8.00 USD. The value stays close to retail price currently as the series is still widely available or recently retired. Sealed boxes identified as the Detective via scan are preferred.
Price (New)
$4.99 USD. This is the standard retail price for a single blind box in the United States.
Compatible Sets
71045 LEGO Minifigures Series 25 (Individual blind box and 6-pack boxes).
Character Background
This figure is a 'hard-boiled' detective archetypal character, inspired by 1940s Film Noir cinema. The inclusion of the 'Red Herring' is a classic literary joke regarding false clues in mystery stories.
Design Notes
The choice of a monochrome gray palette is a specific design choice to mimic black-and-white cinematography. The mold for the fish is standard, but the color contrast is the highlight.
Similar Minifigures
Series 5 Detective, Series 16 Spooky Boy (for the monochrome look), and the Detective from the 10246 Detective's Office set.
Collectibility
High. Monochrome figures are very popular among niche collectors. The 'Red Herring' accessory makes it a standout 'must-have' for CMF enthusiasts.
History
Launched in the second wave of LEGO's transition from plastic bags to cardboard boxes. This figure utilized the new Data Matrix scanning method (shown in your image) which allowed collectors to bypass the 'blind' aspect.
Interesting Facts
The code on the box in your image (6623274) is the specific production weight/identity code for the Detective in North American markets for Series 25.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a grayscale urban diorama or a dedicated CMF display case. Use lighting that casts long shadows to enhance the Film Noir aesthetic.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'Black and White' MOCs. The torso and legs can be used for custom civilian characters in historical 1940s settings.
Overall Assessment
10/10 for creativity. The visual gag of the red herring combined with the monochromatic execution makes this one of the strongest figures in Series 25.