Snowtrooper (Classic Head)
sw0115 · Star Wars
The Empire Strikes Back / Episode V · 2003 (specifically debuted in set 4483 AT-AT)
Figure ID
sw0115
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2003 (specifically debuted in set 4483 AT-AT)
Rarity
Uncommon. While available in multiple sets during the mid-2000s, this specific version with the 'Classic' yellow head is no longer in production and a collector favorite.
Head
The head piece under the helmet is the traditional LEGO 'Solid Stud' or 'Hollow Stud' Yellow Head with standard smiley face. The helmet itself is a single-mold white piece with a fabric-like cowl and narrow eye slits.
Torso
White torso with light gray bionic/armor printing. It features a control box in the center with light blue and red buttons, and light gray lines indicating plating.
Legs
Plain white legs and hips with no printing, representing the standard specialized cold-weather fatigues of the Imperial Blizzard Force.
Accessories
Usually paired with a black blaster (standard small or long) and a light gray 'Backpack' (consisting of a 1x1 bracket and a printed or plain 1x1 tile).
Color Scheme
Primary white with light gray accents and minor red/blue details on the torso control panel.
Printing Details
Simple pad printing on the torso only. The helmet eye slits are not printed, but are actually cut-outs in the plastic mold which show the black/shadow of the head underneath.
Variants
Variants include sw0101 (same torso but different helmet), sw0463 (rounded vent helmet), and various modern versions with detailed leg printing and 'flesh' heads.
Condition Notes
The white plastic is highly susceptible to yellowing from UV light. The torso printing can fade if handled frequently. Check for 'neck cracks' on the torso.
Estimated Value
Current market value is approximately $5.00 - $8.00 USD for a used complete figure. New/Mint condition can reach $12.00+ USD.
Price (New)
N/A (Original sets ranged from $20 for the 10131 TIE Collection to $100 for the 4483 AT-AT).
Compatible Sets
4483 AT-AT (2003), 10131 TIE Collection (2004), 6211 Imperial Star Destroyer (2006).
Character Background
Specialized Imperial stormtroopers trained for operation in arctic climates, most notably seen during the Battle of Hoth in Star Wars: Episode V.
Design Notes
This version uses the original Snowtrooper helmet mold produced between 2003-2013, characterized by the wider cowl and flat face compared to the modern 2014+ dual-molded versions.
Similar Minifigures
sw1162 (Snowtrooper with dual-molded helmet), sw0101 (Snowtrooper with different helmet slit), and sw0568 (Snowtrooper with kama cloth).
Collectibility
High for army builders. Collectors often seek out dozens of these to populate MOC (My Own Creation) Hoth dioramas or AT-AT interiors.
History
This design represented a major leap from the 1999 version (sw0036). It remained the standard for nearly a decade before LEGO introduced more detailed printing and realistic heights.
Interesting Facts
The helmet design was so effective that LEGO used the same mold for nearly 10 years before updating it for the 'Microfighters' and 'Star Wars Rebels' era.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a white baseplate or white 'Snow' landscape alongside an AT-AT or a 20th Anniversary Snowspeeder.
Modification Potential
Excellent for army building. Can be upgraded with cloth 'Kamas' (waist capes) or custom backpacks to represent officers or different ranks.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential Star Wars minifigure. While it lacks the detail of modern 2024 prints, its nostalgic aesthetic and clean design make it a staple for any LEGO Imperial collection.