Clone Trooper Commander, 212th Attack Battalion (Phase 1) - Orange Sun Visor
sw0438 · Star Wars
The Clone Wars · 2013 - Debuted in the set 75019 AT-TE during the height of the Phase 1 Clone Wars era sets.
Figure ID
sw0438
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2013 - Debuted in the set 75019 AT-TE during the height of the Phase 1 Clone Wars era sets.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare - It is exclusive to a single high-priced retail set which has since been retired.
Head
Standard clone trooper 'fleshy' head with a determined expression; topped with a Phase 1 white helmet featuring orange stripe printing and a distinct orange Sun Visor accessory.
Torso
White torso with internal 212th Attack Battalion orange markings, belt detail, and chest plate printing; features orange arms and black hands.
Legs
White legs with orange printing on the hips and the front of the legs representing the 212th color scheme; no side printing.
Accessories
Equipped with an orange visor (clone trooper sun visor). Primarily came with a standard black medium blaster in the original set.
Color Scheme
Primary colors are White and Bright Orange, accented with black joints and printing details to denote the 212th battalion rank.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the helmet, torso (front and back), and legs. Alignment is critical on the triangular chest markings.
Variants
Standard variations include the generic 212th Trooper (sw0522) which lacks the specific commander visor and detailed markings of this sw0438 version.
Condition Notes
Prone to heel cracks and torso cracks under the arms. The orange visor is a small piece that is frequently lost or has stress marks at the attachment points.
Estimated Value
Used: $25 - $35; New/Pristine: $45 - $60. Value fluctuates based on the inclusion of the specific visor accessory.
Price (New)
N/A (Individually). Part of set 75019 which retailed for $89.99 in 2013.
Compatible Sets
75019 AT-TE (2013)
Character Background
A leader within Obi-Wan Kenobi's 212th Attack Battalion, known for their orange armor highlights and participation in the Battle of Geonosis.
Design Notes
Represents the 2013 design style which used more realistic weathering and detail compared to the earlier 2008 'animated' Clone Wars style.
Similar Minifigures
sw0522 (212th Trooper Phase 2), sw0128a (Clone Trooper Commander), sw0442 (Clone Trooper Phase 1).
Collectibility
High. Clone trooper variants, specifically commanders from named battalions, remain highly liquid and desirable assets for Star Wars collectors.
History
Follows the evolution from the yellow-marked commanders of 2002 to the highly detailed, battalion-specific troopers introduced mid-Clone Wars series.
Interesting Facts
This specific figure is often confused with a generic trooper because the 'Commander' status is primarily designated by the accessory and specific torso printing patterns.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed alongside the 75019 AT-TE or in a formation with 212th troopers and Commander Cody.
Modification Potential
Commonly used for purist custom Phase 1 Commander Cody builds before an official one was released. Great for 212th MOC dioramas.
Overall Assessment
A standout figure from the 2013 wave. Its exclusivity to a marquee set and the vibrant orange color scheme make it a centerpiece clone for many collectors.