Royal Guard
sw0521 · Star Wars
Star Wars Episode 4/5/6 · 2014; debuted in set 75034 Death Star Troopers. This marked a significant update to the guard design since the 2001 original.
Figure ID
sw0521
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2014; debuted in set 75034 Death Star Troopers. This marked a significant update to the guard design since the 2001 original.
Rarity
Uncommon. While widely available in a battle pack, it is frequently sought in multiples for army building, keeping demand high despite the production volume.
Head
Plain red head under the helmet; some versions used plain black. The helmet is a unique red mold with a narrow black visor slit.
Torso
Dark red arms with red hands. The torso is red with dark red robe-fold printing on both the front and back to simulate layered fabric.
Legs
Plain red legs with no printing. This is consistent with the character's appearance in the films where their lower robes appear as a solid block of color.
Accessories
Standard dark red soft fabric cape. Note: The Force Pike (spear) shown in official sets is missing from this specific image.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic Red and Dark Red. Primary color is high-saturation red with Dark Red used for shading and color depth on the torso and arms.
Printing Details
Pad printing on the torso only. The lines are thin and subtle to represent the folds of the ceremonial robes. Alignment is usually excellent.
Variants
This is the 2014 update. Earlier versions (sw0040) featured plain red torsos and yellow heads. Later versions include a more detailed dark red robe variant (sw1239).
Condition Notes
Capes are prone to fraying and creasing. The dark red arms are made of a plastic type that is historically more susceptible to cracking at the wrists or elbows.
Estimated Value
Used: $5.00 - $8.00 USD. New: $10.00 - $12.00 USD. Value is slightly lower without the Force Pike accessory.
Price (New)
Originally available in set 75034 (Death Star Troopers) for $12.99 USD, which included four minifigures ($3.25 per figure ratio).
Compatible Sets
75034 Death Star Troopers (2014), 75055 Imperial Star Destroyer (2014), 75093 Death Star Final Duel (2015).
Character Background
The Emperor's Royal Guard, also known as the Imperial Guard, were the elite personal bodyguards of Palpatine, known for their silent, lethal efficiency.
Design Notes
The 2014 redesign introduced the dark red arms and printing for the first time, providing much-needed texture compared to the flat 2001 classic version.
Similar Minifigures
Shadow Guard (sw0604), Senate Commando (sw0614), and the 2001 original Royal Guard (sw0040).
Collectibility
High. Because they are guards, collectors rarely want just one; most desire pairs or larger groups to flank an Emperor Palpatine figure.
History
First introduced in 2001 as part of the 'Final Duel' sets. This 2014 version represents the 'Modern' era of the character's design evolution.
Interesting Facts
The helmet mold for the Royal Guard has remained largely unchanged in shape since 2001, making it one of the longest-running specific Star Wars molds.
Display Suggestions
Display in pairs flanking set 75093 or 75352 (Emperor's Throne Room). Use a black baseplate to make the red pop.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'Sith' themed MOCs or custom guards. The helmet is often used by customizers to create other crimson-clad Star Wars characters.
Overall Assessment
A solid, essential Star Wars minifigure. While simple, it perfectly captures the iconic silhouette of the character. Rating: 8/10.