Stormtrooper (Dual Molded Helmet, Gray Squares on Back, Frown)
sw0997 · Star Wars
Original Trilogy / Star Wars Rebels · 2019 (Debut in 75235 4+ X-Wing Starfighter and 75262 Imperial Dropship)
Figure ID
sw0997
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2019 (Debut in 75235 4+ X-Wing Starfighter and 75262 Imperial Dropship)
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While widely produced, this specific version with the dual-molded helmet is being phased out for newer 2023/2024 designs.
Head
Standard plain black head underneath a dual-molded white helmet. The helmet features integrated black and gray plastic rather than just printing, including a distinct 'frown' vent and blue grill markings.
Torso
White torso with standard Stormtrooper armor printing. Notable for gray squares on the back plate and detailed thermal detonator printing. White arms with black hands.
Legs
White legs with detailed knee plate and utility belt printing. The hips are black to represent the undersuit. No side-leg printing is present on this specific version.
Accessories
Typically supplied with a standard black E-11 blaster rifle or a stud shooter in battle packs. No cape or pauldrons for this standard variant.
Color Scheme
Primary white with black accents and gray mechanical detailing. Blue highlights on the helmet vents.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and legs (front). The helmet is the standout, using a dual-mold process which ensures the black sections never rub off.
Variants
Variations include the sw0585 (Rebels style), sw1251 (updated 2023 helmet), and various Pauldron-equipped commanders. This version (sw0997) is often criticized by fans for the 'droopy' helmet look.
Condition Notes
Prone to 'yellowing' if exposed to UV light. Check for cracks in the heels or torso sides. The dual-molded helmet is very durable compared to older printed versions.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $6.00 USD; New: $7.00 - $9.00 USD. Prices are stable due to high supply from the 20th Anniversary battle packs.
Price (New)
Originally included in sets ranging from $14.99 (Battle Packs) to $99.99+. The per-figure cost in the 20th Anniversary Dropship was roughly $3.75.
Compatible Sets
75235 X-Wing Starfighter, 75262 Imperial Dropship – 20th Anniversary Edition, 75221 Imperial Landing Craft, 75252 Imperial Star Destroyer (UCS).
Character Background
The iconic frontline soldiers of the Galactic Empire. This specific design is based on their appearance in A New Hope, though the helmet mold is stylized.
Design Notes
This figure marked a controversial shift to the dual-molded helmet. While technically superior in build quality, many fans felt the helmet was too large and lacked the ability to turn left or right effectively.
Similar Minifigures
sw0188 (Classic 2008), sw0585 (Rebels Stormtrooper), sw1251 (2023 version with updated helmet proportions).
Collectibility
High for 'army builders.' While not a rare individual piece, collectors often buy these in quantities of 20 to 100 for display dioramas.
History
Follows a 20-year evolution of the LEGO Stormtrooper, moving from the simple 1999 yellow-head version to this modern, hyper-detailed dual-molded era.
Interesting Facts
The helmet on this figure is so large compared to previous versions that it can sometimes interfere with the figure sitting flush against high-backed chairs in LEGO vehicles.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in formation (ranks of 4x4) on a light-gray baseplate. Looks excellent alongside the 20th Anniversary Vader or a UCS Star Destroyer.
Modification Potential
Excellent for purist customs. Parts are frequently used to create Scout Troopers or specialized Imperial Navy Troopers.
Overall Assessment
A solid, detailed figure that suffered from a polarizing aesthetic choice regarding the helmet size. Mandatory for any Star Wars collection but easy to find on the secondary market.