R2-D5
sw0301 · Star Wars
Old Republic / Expanded Universe · Released in 2011. This figure debuted during a transition period in LEGO Star Wars where they began focusing on more obscure Astromech droids from various media sources.
Figure ID
sw0301
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
Released in 2011. This figure debuted during a transition period in LEGO Star Wars where they began focusing on more obscure Astromech droids from various media sources.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. It appeared in only one set, making it harder to find than standard R2-D2 droids, but not as elusive as convention exclusives.
Head
Half-sphere R2-unit dome piece. Dark Red color with silver and grey printing. It features the standard Astromech sensor eye and logic processor port patterns.
Torso
White Astromech Droid Body with Dark Red, Dark Grey, and Silver printing. The pattern is detailed with utility panels and acoustic signaling sensors specific to the R2 series.
Legs
Standard white left and right Astromech droid legs. They are unprinted and held in place by friction to the body piece.
Accessories
None included. This figure is composed of 4 parts: head, body, and two legs.
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of White and Dark Red (Bordeaux), accented by metallic silver and light grey printing.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The figure lacks back printing on the body, which was standard for this era. Head printing covers approximately 270 degrees.
Variants
There are no known internal variants of this specific ID, though it represents a red counterpart to the classic blue R2-D2 (sw0217).
Condition Notes
Common issues include 'dome misalignment' where the printing is tilted. Check for yellowing on the white body and scratches on the dark red chrome-style paint of the head.
Estimated Value
Used: $12 - $18 USD. New: $25 - $35 USD (sourced from typical BrickLink and eBay averages for a single figure).
Price (New)
Originally released in set 7915 ($12.99 USD retail), giving it a very low original price-per-part ratio.
Compatible Sets
7915 - Imperial V-wing Starfighter (2011).
Character Background
R2-D5 served the Galactic Empire. In the LEGO context, it is depicted as the co-pilot for the Imperial V-wing pilot following the rise of the Empire.
Design Notes
Utilizes the classic 2010-era Astromech mold. This was one of the first times LEGO experimented with a Dark Red dome since the R5-D4 variants.
Similar Minifigures
R2-Q5 (sw0213), R2-D2 (sw0217), R5-D4 (sw0142), and R2-R7 (sw0274).
Collectibility
High demand for 'Astromech Completionists.' While not a main character, droids with unique colors typically hold or increase in value as collectors aim to fill their hangars.
History
Follows the evolution of the 2008 droid redesign. This specific color way was a significant aesthetic shift for collectors of the Imperial sub-line.
Interesting Facts
Despite the 'R2' designation, its color scheme is often confused by fans with R4 units or other R2 variants like R2-M5.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside an Imperial V-wing or in an Imperial hangar MOC. Contrast it against standard blue R2 units to make the red pop.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'droid building.' The white body is a standard base that can be swapped with other colored domes (like R3 or R4 heads) to create custom astromechs.
Overall Assessment
A solid 8/10 for collectors. Its single-set exclusivity and vibrant color scheme make it a standout piece of the early 2010s Star Wars line.