Series 25 - Film Noir Detective (The Detective)
col25-1 · Collectible Minifigures
Series 25 · Released in January 2024. This figure debuted during a shift towards sustainable cardboard packaging, which introducedscannable Data Matrix codes on box bottoms to help collectors identify contents without opening.
Figure ID
col25-1
Theme
Collectible Minifigures
Year Released
Released in January 2024. This figure debuted during a shift towards sustainable cardboard packaging, which introducedscannable Data Matrix codes on box bottoms to help collectors identify contents without opening.
Rarity
Common while in production, yet highly sought after. Since it is part of a blind-box series containing 12 distinct characters, finding a specific one like the Detective originally required a 1 in 12 chance before scanning methods were discovered.
Head
Light Nugget flesh tone with a classic noir expression: dark eyebrows, a slight smirk, and a five o'clock shadow. It features a dual-sided print with a 'surprised' or 'searching' expression. Topped with a unique grey Fedory hat/hair combo piece.
Torso
Light Bluish Gray trench coat printing over a white shirt and black tie. The print includes button details, lapels, and belt detailing that continues to the back, capturing the iconic 1940s investigator look.
Legs
Light Bluish Gray legs matching the trench coat color. The printing includes the bottom hem of the coat and subtle pocket/seam details to maintain the noir aesthetic.
Accessories
Includes a classic red herring (fish element), which is a play on the literary term for a false clue, and a magnifying glass with a functional lens (transparent glass insert). Comes with a standard black 3x4 stand.
Color Scheme
Highly muted palette consisting of Light Bluish Gray, White, Black, and Light Nugget. The only pop of color is the Bright Red fish accessory, emphasizing the 'Red Herring' pun.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the front and back of the torso and the front of the legs. The crispness of the tie and collar lines against the gray is characteristic of modern CMF standards.
Variants
No official design variants exist for the Detective in Series 25. However, this character is a stylistic successor to the Series 5 Detective and the Series 16 Crook's 'Noir' companion.
Condition Notes
The cardboard boxes are prone to crushing if not handled carefully. Inside, the figure is rarely damaged, but the magnifying glass lens can occasionally show light scuffing if it rubs against other parts.
Estimated Value
New (in box): $5.00 - $8.00; Used: $4.00 - $6.00. Value remains stable due to the popularity of the 'detective' archetype and the humor of the red herring accessory.
Price (New)
$4.99 USD per blind box at retail outlets like LEGO Stores, Target, and Walmart.
Compatible Sets
71045 LEGO Minifigures Series 25 (Single Box), 66763 LEGO Minifigures Series 25 6-Pack.
Character Background
Inspired by 1940s film noir and hardboiled detective fiction. This character is designed to look like he stepped right out of a black-and-white movie, solving mysteries in a rainy city.
Design Notes
The use of the Data Matrix code (seen in the user image) was a pivotal design choice by LEGO to mitigate customer complaints regarding the move away from plastic bags (which could be felt).
Similar Minifigures
Series 5 Detective (col05-12), Series 16 Rogue (col16-16), and various Sherlock Holmes-style figures from the modular line.
Collectibility
High. Army builders and MOC (My Own Creation) builders often buy multiples to populate city scenes or build private investigator offices.
History
Series 25 represents the second major release using the new cardboard box style (after Series 24 and Marvel Series 2). The Detective is often cited as the 'flagship' figure of this specific wave.
Interesting Facts
The 'Red Herring' accessory is one of the most clever puns LEGO has produced in the CMF line. The small QR/Data Matrix code on the bottom of this specific box (6623274 / 513R6) confirms the Detective is inside.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a monochrome or 'black and white' scene to emphasize the noir theme. Looks excellent alongside the Modular Cinema or Detective Office sets.
Modification Potential
Excellent for purist customs; the trench coat torso is highly versatile for creating other 1940s-style civilians or secret agents.
Overall Assessment
Score: 9/10. An excellent figure that combines humor, great printing, and a desired aesthetic. The scannable code on the box makes it a stress-free purchase for target-seeking collectors.