Darth Vader (Tan Head, Two-Piece Helmet)
sw0636b · Star Wars
The Original Trilogy · 2015 (This specific variation debuted later in 2017)
Figure ID
sw0636b
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2015 (This specific variation debuted later in 2017)
Rarity
Uncommon. While Darth Vader is a common character, this specific two-piece helmet variant was transitional between the original mold and modern iterations.
Head
Light Flesh head (Tan/Flesh tone) with scarring/burn details and a determined expression. It is covered by the iconic two-piece helmet consisting of a collar/mask and a removable top dome.
Torso
Black torso with detailed control panel printing (red, green, and blue buttons) and a grey belt with lightsaber hilt details. Simple back printing depicting the suit's life-support apparatus.
Legs
Black legs with grey seam lines and robe fold printing. No side printing on this specific iteration.
Accessories
Traditional black fabric cape (soft or spongy type depending on the specific set) and traditionally a red lightsaber (though missing in the image).
Color Scheme
Monochromatic black with grey, silver, and technical accent colors (red/green) on the chest plate.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso and legs. The helmet mold includes intricate vent and eye details previously impossible in the one-piece design.
Variants
Variants include the original one-piece helmet (1999-2015), the white-headed version, and the newest 2023 version with arm printing.
Condition Notes
The two-piece helmet is prone to losing the top dome. The cape often frays at the neck or becomes creased. Check for 'clutch power' on the helmet chin piece.
Estimated Value
Used: $12 - $18 USD; New: $25+ USD (part of higher-valued sets). Individual parts like the helmet set sell for $5-7.
Price (New)
Appeared in sets ranging from $30 (75183 Darth Vader Transformation) to $800 (75192 Millennium Falcon).
Compatible Sets
75183 Darth Vader Transformation, 75291 Death Star Final Duel, 75159 Death Star, 75150 Vader's TIE Advanced vs. A-Wing Starfighter.
Character Background
Anakin Skywalker, the fallen Jedi Knight and Sith Lord. This version depicts him as he appeared in the Original Trilogy (Episodes IV-VI).
Design Notes
The move to the two-piece helmet in 2015 was controversial among fans as it made the head look slightly oversized but allowed for the iconic 'unmasking' scene from Return of the Jedi.
Similar Minifigures
sw0832 (Darth Vader with arm printing), sw0011 (Classic 1999 Vader), sw1273 (2023 25th Anniversary Vader).
Collectibility
High demand as the definitive movie-accurate play-scale version for many years. Stable investment as every Star Wars fan needs a Vader.
History
Follows the 15-year reign of the sw0209 one-piece helmet version. This was the first major structural change to the Vader figure since LEGO's inception of the theme.
Interesting Facts
The 'b' variant of the ID signifies the change from a 'light grey' head to the 'light flesh' tone head used in more recent sets.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for a 'I am your father' diorama or inside a Darth Vader Meditation Chamber set. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent the black plastic from becoming brittle.
Modification Potential
The head is frequently used for custom 'Battle Damaged' Anakin MOCs. The helmet is compatible with most standard LEGO heads for 'Sith-sona' creations.
Overall Assessment
A core staple of the Star Wars line. While the helmet proportions are a bit 'bobble-head' compared to older versions, it is the most functionally accurate representation of the character's costume.