Lyle Lipton
idea013 · LEGO Ideas
The Big Bang Theory · 2015
Figure ID
idea013
Theme
LEGO Ideas
Year Released
2015
Rarity
Uncommon but highly sought after. This figure was exclusive to a single, retired LEGO Ideas set that had a relatively short shelf life.
Head
Light Flesh, dual-sided facial expression. One side features a neutral stare with a faint smirk and light cheek lines; the other side shows a more distressed or annoyed expression. It is topped with a white swept-back hair piece (Part 15482).
Torso
Lime green button-down shirt with a breast pocket and a medium-sized white tie printed with yellow, green, and red circular patterns. Back printing features simple contour lines of the shirt.
Legs
Solid black hips and legs without printing. These are standard 2x2 LEGO minifigure legs.
Accessories
In the original set, he was not packaged with personal weapons or tools but was surrounded by the intricate details of the apartment; however, he is often associated with the whiteboard or comic book accessories found in the set.
Color Scheme
A striking lime green torso contrasted with black legs and white hair. The tie features primary-colored dots (red, yellow, green) providing a pop of detail.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the mid-2010s Ideas line. The tie printing is crisp, and the dual-sided head provides excellent character display options.
Variants
There are no official LEGO variants of this specific torso/head combination, though the white hairpiece and black legs are common across many themes.
Condition Notes
The lime green plastic is generally resilient to fading, but the white hairpiece can show dirt or scuffs easily. Check for 'neck cracks' on the lime torso, as this was a known era for occasional plastic stress.
Estimated Value
Used: $5 - $9 USD; Part of the complete set (21302): $130 - $180 USD. Individually, he is one of the more affordable figures from the set compared to Sheldon or Leonard.
Price (New)
Released in set 21302 which retailed for $59.99 USD in 2015. The price-per-minifigure ratio was excellent given it included 7 minifigures.
Compatible Sets
Set 21302: The Big Bang Theory (LEGO Ideas #010).
Character Background
Lyle Lipton is a relatively obscure character from The Big Bang Theory universe, best known for his interactions with the main cast at the comic book store or in auxiliary scenes. He serves as an essential 'background' regular to complete the show’s ensemble cast.
Design Notes
LEGO designers successfully captured the 'mundane geek' aesthetic using the lime green color, which was a specific costume choice from the show. The white hair mold is a perfect match for the character's actor.
Similar Minifigures
Other Big Bang Theory characters (Sheldon, Leonard, Penny, Howard, Raj, Bernadette, Amy). Also similar to 'Comic Book Guy' from The Simpsons CMF line due to the theme.
Collectibility
High for completionists of the LEGO Ideas line. Since LEGO likely will never produce Big Bang Theory sets again due to licensing expiration, these figures have become reliable collectibles.
History
This figure resulted from a fan-submitted project on the LEGO Ideas platform (formerly CUUSOO) that reached 10,000 votes. It marks one of the few sitcom-based sets produced by LEGO.
Interesting Facts
Despite being a more minor character, his inclusion was a nod to the deep lore of the show and was highly requested by the fan designers of the original project.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed within a custom 'Stuart's Comic Book Store' MOC or alongside the other 6 members of the cast from set 21302.
Modification Potential
The lime green torso is very popular for custom figures of characters like 'The Joker' (in casual wear) or custom city-dwellers. The white hair is a versatile piece for elderly or stylized custom figures.
Overall Assessment
A solid 7/10. While not the most famous character, the unique torso printing and the 'Ideas' pedigree make him a must-have for fans of the show and collectors of the Ideas theme.