Captain Redbeard (Classic Version)
pi055 / pi016 · Pirates
Classic Pirates · 1989 - 1997 (various set debuts)
Figure ID
pi055 / pi016
Theme
Pirates
Year Released
1989 - 1997 (various set debuts)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While mass-produced in the 90s, pristine condition heads are increasingly difficult to find due to set retirement and age.
Head
Classic LEGO yellow head. Single-sided printing featuring dot eyes, a smiling mouth hidden under a large black mustache, stubble/beard dots on the jawline, and thick black eyebrows (frequently called the 'stubble head').
Torso
The full figure typically features a red coat with gold buttons, a green scarf or jabot, and a black belt. (Note: Only the head is clearly visible in the provided image).
Legs
Usually features one black leg and one wooden-style peg leg (brown), though early versions varied.
Accessories
Standard accessories include a black bicorne hat with a skull and crossbones (Jolly Roger) print, an epoxy hook hand, and a cutlass sword.
Color Scheme
Traditional Pirate colors: Yellow (flesh), Black (hair/mustache), Red (coat), and Gold (details).
Printing Details
Simple pad-printed facial features typical of the late 80s/early 90s. This specific head print was revolutionary as it was one of the first departures from the standard 'smiley' face.
Variants
Variants include versions with or without eyebrows, and later 2015/2020 reimagined versions with modern high-detail printing.
Condition Notes
The mustache and stubble are prone to rubbing off with play. Check for 'neck cracks' and fading of the black ink. The yellow plastic can occasionally tan/darken if exposed to UV.
Estimated Value
The head alone is worth approximately $2.00 - $5.00 USD. A complete used figure ranges from $15.00 - $40.00 depending on the specific set version and condition.
Price (New)
Originally included in sets ranging from $10.00 (Black Seas Barracuda small sets) to $120.00 (large flagships).
Compatible Sets
6285 Black Seas Barracuda, 6270 Forbidden Island, 6273 Rock Island Refuge, and 6286 Skull's Eye Schooner.
Character Background
Captain Redbeard is the primary antagonist of the LEGO Pirates line, leader of the Barracuda crew, and rival to Governor Broadside/Imperial Soldiers.
Design Notes
This head was a milestone in LEGO history, as it introduced facial hair and the 'rebel' look, breaking the era of uniform yellow smiley faces.
Similar Minifigures
Iron Hook (pi006), Captain Roger, modern 2020 Redbeard (pi163), and the 1989 Imperial Soldier.
Collectibility
High. He is an icon of 'System' era LEGO and essential for any retro collector or 90s enthusiast.
History
Debuted in 1989 with the launch of the Pirates theme. He remained the face of LEGO Pirates for nearly a decade.
Interesting Facts
The 'Redbeard' name wasn't actually coined globally at first; he was often referred to simply as 'The Captain' in different regional catalogs.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on the deck of a 90s sailing ship or in a collector's frame next to the Imperial Governor.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'old-school' MOCs. The head is a universal favorite for creating rugged sailors or bandits in the classic aesthetic.
Overall Assessment
An absolute classic piece of LEGO history. The 'stubble' face is 10/10 for nostalgia and charm, representing a turning point in character-driven design.