R2-Q5
sw0213 · Star Wars
Ultimate Collector Series / Episode VI: Return of the Jedi · 2008 (Debut in UCS Death Star, set 10188)
Figure ID
sw0213
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2008 (Debut in UCS Death Star, set 10188)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While it appeared in a mass-market set, that set (Death Star) was very expensive, limiting the accessible supply.
Head
Standard 2x2 dome cylinder in black with metallic silver, light grey, and red printing representing sensory sensors and the primary logic processor.
Torso
R2-Series Astromech Droid Body in black with metallic silver and light grey paneling and orange/bronze logic display details.
Legs
Two standard Astromech droid legs in solid black with no printing.
Accessories
None (standard for this specific release).
Color Scheme
Primary Black with Metallic Silver, Light Bluish Gray, and subtle Red/Orange accents.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the dome and front of the torso. Like most older Astromechs, there is no printing on the back of the cylinder.
Variants
This is the original sw0213. A newer version (sw1230) was released in 2022 with significantly improved printing including back-printing.
Condition Notes
Watch for scratches on the metallic silver dome printing. The black plastic shows dust and surface scratches more easily than lighter colors.
Estimated Value
Used: $15 - $25 USD; New (taken from sealed set): $30 - $40 USD.
Price (New)
Available in set 10188 (Death Star) retailing for $399.99, and later in the 2011 Advent Calendar (7958).
Compatible Sets
10188 Death Star (2008), 7958 Star Wars Advent Calendar (2011).
Character Background
R2-Q5 was an Imperial R2-series astromech droid stationed aboard the second Death Star. It served the Galactic Empire and was specialized in linguistics and repair.
Design Notes
Utilizes the classic 3-piece assembly (dome, body, two legs). This version is notable for being the first dark-colored Imperial Astromech produced at this scale.
Similar Minifigures
R2-D2 (sw0217), R5-J2 (sw0375), R2-Q2 (sw0303), and the updated R2-Q5 (sw1230).
Collectibility
High demand for Imperial collectors and 'Death Star' completists. Though superseded by the 2022 version, the 2008 version remains a nostalgia staple.
History
A significant milestone as one of the first non-R2-D2 astromechs to feature distinctive Imperial colors during the 'Clone Wars' transition era of LEGO production.
Interesting Facts
Despite appearing in the massive UCS Death Star, the figure was surprisingly included in a low-cost Advent Calendar a few years later, which significantly dropped its secondary market value at the time.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed alongside Imperial officers, Stormtroopers, or inside a Death Star MOC. Use a transparent stand to mimic the 'third leg' functionality.
Modification Potential
Excellent for Imperial droid MOCs. Can be upgraded with parts from sw1230 for a 'best-of-both-worlds' look with the classic torso and updated dome.
Overall Assessment
A solid, classic Star Wars minifigure that represents a specific era of LEGO Star Wars. 7/10 for detail; 8/10 for historical importance to droid collectors.