Mirkwood Elf Guard
lor079 · The Lord of the Rings / The Hobbit
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug · 2013 - Released during the wave for the second Hobbit film, marking a peak in LEGO's detailed licensed fantasy figures.
Figure ID
lor079
Theme
The Lord of the Rings / The Hobbit
Year Released
2013 - Released during the wave for the second Hobbit film, marking a peak in LEGO's detailed licensed fantasy figures.
Rarity
Uncommon - Exclusive to two sets from a retired theme. While not a limitied promotional item, the theme was relatively short-lived compared to Star Wars.
Head
Light Flesh, dual-sided (determined smirk and angry battle expression). Features the specific pointed elf-ear/long blonde hair mold.
Torso
Dark Brown with detailed Dark Green and Gold scale mail armor print. Pearl Gold arms with Light Flesh hands. Includes back printing of the tunic seams.
Legs
Dark Brown with Dark Green tunic tail and gold line printing. Standard adult-height articulated legs.
Accessories
Usually paired with a longbow or a long-blade polearm/spear. This specific image shows the figure without held accessories.
Color Scheme
Earth-toned palette: Dark Brown and Dark Green with Pearl Gold highlights to represent the Mirkwood forest aesthetic.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing showing intricate scale mail detail on both the front and back of the torso and the front of the hips/thighs.
Variants
Similar to lor080 (Mirkwood Elf Archer) which has different torso armor and hair/hat combinations, but this specific print is the Guard variant.
Condition Notes
Watch for gold ink rubbing on the torso scales. The Pearl Gold arms are prone to hairline cracks at the wrists or elbows over time.
Estimated Value
New: $18-$25 | Used Complete: $12-$17 | Price varies based on the presence of the specific hair/ear piece which is the most valuable part.
Price (New)
Retail for Set 79012 was $29.99 (Mirkwood Elf Army); the figure cost approximately $5.00 of that value at release.
Compatible Sets
79012 Mirkwood Elf Army; 79014 Dol Guldur Battle.
Character Background
The guards of the woodland realm under King Thranduil. They appear in The Desolation of Smaug defending Mirkwood and participating in the Battle of the Five Armies.
Design Notes
The specialized hair/ear mold is the defining feature of Middle-earth elves in LEGO, ensuring they look distinct from standard human figures.
Similar Minifigures
Legolas (lor064), Thranduil (lor078), and various Mirkwood Archer variants.
Collectibility
High. Army-builder figures from retired licensed themes typically maintain or increase in value as collectors seek to build large dioramas.
History
Part of the second wave of The Hobbit sets. It replaced the simpler 'Classic Castle' elf designs with movie-accurate textures and skin tones.
Interesting Facts
The Dark Green printing on Dark Brown plastic is notoriously difficult to align, but this figure usually showcases very clean registration.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for forest dioramas or displayed in ranks on a gray baseplate to simulate Thranduil's army. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent Pearl Gold fading.
Modification Potential
Excellent for high-fantasy MOCs (D&D). The torso is highly sought after for custom Wood Elf or Druid characters.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier army builder. Excellent printing and a unique hair mold make it a staple for any Middle-earth or fantasy LEGO collection. Rating: 8.5/10.