Jar Jar Binks
sw0301 · Star Wars
Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace · 2011 (Released in set 7929, The Battle of Naboo)
Figure ID
sw0301
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2011 (Released in set 7929, The Battle of Naboo)
Rarity
Uncommon. While he appeared in a few affordable sets, this specific 2011 version represents a significant upgrade over the 1999 original and is highly sought after by prequel-era collectors.
Head
Custom-molded Gungan head piece. It features a tan/yellowish base with printed orange eyes on extended stalks and dark brown markings across the bridge of the nose/eyes. The head is made of a slightly rubberized plastic compared to standard ABS.
Torso
Dark Brown torso with Gungan tunic printing. Includes details of a vest and a tan belt line. The arms are flesh-colored (light orange/nougat) to represent the character's skin tone.
Legs
Dark Tan legs with no printing. The hip piece is also Dark Tan.
Accessories
This specific figure did not come with accessories in most sets, though in set 7929 he is depicted with a Gungan translucent purple energy shield (Booma). None are visible in the provided image.
Color Scheme
Primarily Dark Brown, Tan, and Nougat (Flesh). The colors are earthy and designed to match the swamps of Naboo.
Printing Details
The printing on the torso is crisp but limited to the front. The head mold features intricate pad printing for the eyes and the dark brown patch across the face.
Variants
This is the 2011 'modern' redesign (sw0301). It differs from the 1999 classic version (sw0017) which had a simpler head mold and yellow skin tone. A later version (sw0545) released in 2014 added printed details to the legs.
Condition Notes
The most common issue is the rubberized head piece attracting lint or becoming sticky over time. The neck joint of the custom head can sometimes develop stress marks if removed frequently.
Estimated Value
Used: $5.00 - $8.00 USD. New: $10.00 - $14.00 USD. Value is stable due to the character's polarizing but iconic status.
Price (New)
Included in set 7929 ($24.99 retail) and set 9499 ($69.99 retail).
Compatible Sets
7929 The Battle of Naboo (2011), 9499 Gungan Sub (2012).
Character Background
Jar Jar Binks is a Gungan from Naboo who played a pivotal role in the Galactic Senate and the Battle of Naboo. He is a lead character in Episode I: The Phantom Menace.
Design Notes
The 2011 redesign moved away from the yellow 'LEGO Classic' skin tone to more movie-accurate flesh tones and more detailed eye printing on the head mold.
Similar Minifigures
Gungan Soldier (sw0302), Captain Tarpals (sw0546), and the 1999 classic Jar Jar Binks (sw0017).
Collectibility
Medium. He is essential for completing Episode I scenes or Prequel-era collections, though he is not as valuable as rare Jedi or Sith minifigures.
History
Jar Jar was one of the first minifigures to receive a completely unique, non-standard head mold in 1999. This 2011 version represents the'middle' evolution of the character before leg printing was added.
Interesting Facts
The 1999 Jar Jar head was LEGO's first unique character head mold that didn't use a standard cylindrical brick. This 2011 update corrected his skin tone to match the flesh-tone transition of the Star Wars line.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a Naboo swamp MOC or alongside a Gungan army. Keep out of direct sunlight as the flesh-toned arms are prone to fading faster than darker plastics.
Modification Potential
Commonly used for 'Darth Jar Jar' custom figures by swapping the eyes for Sith-style yellow/red eyes or adding a black hood/cape.
Overall Assessment
A sturdy, accurate representation of a divisive but legendary character. A 7/10 for collectors who prioritize movie accuracy over vintage 'yellow-skin' charm.