Leonardo (2012 Version)
tnt002 · Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Nickelodeon 2012 Animated Series · 2013 (First Released in Wave 1)
Figure ID
tnt002
Theme
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Year Released
2013 (First Released in Wave 1)
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limited promotional item, the TMNT theme was retired quickly (2014), making all turtle figures increasingly difficult to find in good condition.
Head
Green head mold with dark blue mask printing. Features a determined/grumpy expression with white pupils and black lines. The head is a unique mold that is more rounded than standard minifigure heads.
Torso
Green torso with tan 'plastron' (chest plate) printing. Includes a dark brown leather-style sash/bandolier strapped diagonally from right shoulder to left waist with gold buckles. Back usually features printing for the shell attachment.
Legs
Plain green legs without printing. These use the standard minifigure leg mold in bright green.
Accessories
Missing in image. Originally comes with two silver (Flat Silver) katanas and a specialized dark brown turtle shell piece that attaches to the neck peg.
Color Scheme
Bright green body, tan chest, dark blue mask, and dark brown accents. These colors match the Nickelodeon CG-animated series art style.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head and torso. The chest features 'battle damage' scuff marks (v-shaped nicks) which are characteristic of the 2012 line.
Variants
Variations include the 'Movie' version (tnt020), 'Deep Sea' gear, and a 'Mousers' attack version. This specific version (tnt002) is the standard animated series design.
Condition Notes
Common wear includes 'nose rub' on the protruding snout and scuffing on the back shell piece. Check for torso cracks under the arms and neck peg wear due to the thick shell accessory.
Estimated Value
Used (Complete): $8 - $12 USD. Incomplete (as shown): $4 - $6 USD. New/Sealed: $20+ USD (market price varies based on set).
Price (New)
Appeared in sets ranging from $12.99 (79100) to $69.99 (79103). Individual figure market value has outpaced the original price-per-part ratio.
Compatible Sets
79100 Kraang Lab Escape and 79103 Turtle Lair Attack (2013).
Character Background
Leonardo is the leader of the TMNT team, known for his discipline and use of twin katanas. This design is based on the 2012 Nickelodeon reboot which revitalized the franchise for a new generation.
Design Notes
LEGO created a custom head mold for the TMNT line to accommodate the mask and snout, departing from the standard cylinder head. The shell piece is also a unique neck-bracket mold.
Similar Minifigures
Raphael (tnt001 - red mask), Michelangelo (tnt003 - orange mask), Donatello (tnt004 - purple mask).
Collectibility
High. The TMNT license is currently held by other companies (MegaBloks/MegaConstrux), meaning LEGO is unlikely to produce more, driving up 'retired' nostalgia value.
History
LEGO held the TMNT license for a short window (2013-2014) to coincide with the Nickelodeon show and the 2014 Michael Bay film before the license moved to Mattel.
Interesting Facts
The 2012 LEGO TMNT line was the first time the turtles appeared with pupils in their eyes (matching the show), whereas previous toy lines often depicted them with blank white eyes.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the other three brothers on a sewer-themed baseplate. Due to the bulky shell, they require slightly more depth than standard figures on a display shelf.
Modification Potential
The head and torso can be used for custom 'MOC' mutant characters. Custom fabric capes are often added by fans to mimic the 'Vision Quest' variants.
Overall Assessment
A solid, era-accurate representation of a fan-favorite character. Despite missing his shell and swords in the photo, the core figure remains a nostalgic piece of the short-lived but beloved LEGO TMNT theme.