Blue Knight - Castle, Kingdoms (Lion Knight with Smirk)
cas439 · Castle
Kingdoms · 2010. Released during the first wave of the Kingdoms line, which returned to a more grounded, 'real-world' medieval aesthetic following the fantasy-based 2007 Castle theme.
Figure ID
cas439
Theme
Castle
Year Released
2010. Released during the first wave of the Kingdoms line, which returned to a more grounded, 'real-world' medieval aesthetic following the fantasy-based 2007 Castle theme.
Rarity
Uncommon. While Kingdoms sets were popular, this specific torso/legs combination appeared in only two sets. Its value is driven more by faction nostalgia than limited production counts.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone. Features a smirking expression with thin eyebrows and a lopsided grin. Topped with a Flat Silver Minifigure Headgear Helmet Neck Protector (Pointed Top).
Torso
White torso with Pearl Dark Gray arms and Black hands. Front printing features a Lion Knight tabard/tunic with a blue shield containing a white lion head, silver chainmail at the collar, and a brown leather belt with gold studs and a horseshoe charm.
Legs
Light Bluish Gray legs with silver hip/top print. Printing continues the tunic details from the torso, including the lower edge of the tabard and the continuation of the belt and horseshoe pouch.
Accessories
In this image, the figure is only wearing its Flat Silver neck protector helmet. Originally, these figures were often paired with a pearl silver sword and a blue heater shield with the Lion emblem.
Color Scheme
Primary colors are White, Light Bluish Gray, and Pearl Dark Gray. Accents include Blue (shield), Gold (studs), and Brown (belt).
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the 2010 era. The torso features front and back printing (back depicts the continuation of the belt and tabard). The alignment between torso and hip printing is a known quality check point for collectors.
Variants
The 'Kingdoms' Lion Knights share this torso across many figures, but variants exist with different headpieces (beards, stoic faces) and different leg colors (some have plain light gray legs).
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the silver printing on the hips which can rub off from leg friction. The white torso is prone to slight yellowing if exposed to UV light. Check for 'neck cracks' around the torso stud.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $5.00 - $8.00 USD. New/Mint: $10.00 - $15.00 USD. Individual torso/legs go for approximately $2.00 - $4.00.
Price (New)
This figure appeared in the King's Carriage (7949) which retailed for $12.99 USD, and the King's Castle (7946) which retailed for $99.99 USD.
Compatible Sets
7949 Rescuing the Princess, 7946 King's Castle.
Character Background
A standard rank-and-file soldier of the 'Lion Kingdom' faction. In the Kingdoms lore, these knights were the noble defenders against the Dragon Knights faction.
Design Notes
The use of the horseshoe charm on the belt is a charming bit of detail that added personality to the generic soldiers. The helmet mold is a classic part 3844, updated in flat silver for this era.
Similar Minifigures
Kingdoms Dragon Knight (cas441), Classic Lion Knight (cas015), 2013 Castle Lion Knight (cas516).
Collectibility
High. The Kingdoms line is highly regarded by adult fans of LEGO (AFOLs) for its realistic and detailed printing. Many collectors use these for army-building.
History
Kingdoms (2010-2012) marked a shift away from 'fantasy' (orced and trolls) back to human-centric medieval warfare. This figure was a staple of that short-lived but beloved era.
Interesting Facts
The Lion emblem used on this torso is a modernization of the classic 1984 Crusaders emblem. In many sets, this specific smirking head was meant to represent a younger or more cocky squire.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in large quantities (army building) on grey baseplates or integrated into a MOC castle. Pairs perfectly with the 10223 Kingdoms Joust set.
Modification Potential
Excellent for purist customs. The white tabard torso is very versatile for making generic knights or customizing other medieval factions with different legs/helmets.
Overall Assessment
Rated 8/10 for design. A quintessential modern-classic LEGO knight. It strikes a perfect balance between nostalgic 'feel' and modern printing standards.