Jar Jar Binks
sw0017 · Star Wars
Star Wars Episode 1 · 1999 (The Phantom Menace wave)
Figure ID
sw0017
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
1999 (The Phantom Menace wave)
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it appeared in several early sets, it is a dated figure from the first year of LEGO Star Wars.
Head
Unique Gungan mold in Tan/Sand Yellow. This version lacks pupils in the eyes, which is characteristic of the earliest 1999-2001 runs.
Torso
Dark Gray Torso with Gungan patterns including a vest and pouch. Arms are Flesh-colored (Nougat) in later versions, but this specific figure appears to have Light Gray/Tan arms consistent with early Episode 1 prints.
Legs
Tan unprinted legs with Dark Gray hips.
Accessories
Included here with a Gungan Kaadu (Creature). Original sets often included a Gungan Energy Ball (Electropole) or Booma.
Color Scheme
Tan, Dark Gray, and Sand Yellow. Natural Earth tones corresponding to the Gungan aesthetic in Naboo.
Printing Details
Pad printed torso (front only). No back printing or leg printing, typical of 1999 LEGO standards.
Variants
sw0017 (Yellow eyes/No pupils), sw0310 (Printed eyes with pupils), and sw1420 (modern 25th anniversary versions). This is the original 1999 variant.
Condition Notes
The rubbery Gungan head tends to collect dust in the crevices. The Kaadu's legs are a single mold and can suffer from stress marks if forced into studs. Check for loose arm joints.
Estimated Value
Minifigure: $5-$10 USD; With Kaadu: $15-$25 USD depending on condition.
Price (New)
Contained in sets ranging from $10 (7115) to $80 (7161) in 1999.
Compatible Sets
7115 Gungan Patrol, 7121 Naboo Swamp, 7159 Podracing Bucket, 7161 Gungan Sub.
Character Background
Jar Jar Binks is a Gungan outcast from the planet Naboo who played a pivotal role in the Battle of Naboo and the rise of the Galactic Empire.
Design Notes
One of the first 'unique' head molds developed for the Star Wars line, breaking away from the standard cylinder head shape.
Similar Minifigures
Captain Tarpals (sw0343), Gungan Soldier (sw0302).
Collectibility
High nostalgia factor for '99 collectors; essential for any Episode 1 display.
History
Debuted in the first-ever wave of licensed Star Wars sets. It marked LEGO's shift toward character-specific molds.
Interesting Facts
The original Jar Jar head mold is slightly softer and more pliable than the 2011 redesign. He was the first Gungan ever produced in LEGO form.
Display Suggestions
Mount on the Kaadu as shown. Best displayed alongside a 1999 Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi in a swamp vignette.
Modification Potential
The Kaadu is a highly desired creature part for Naboo Battle MOCs.
Overall Assessment
A classic piece of LEGO history. While simple by modern standards, it remains iconic as the first iteration of one of cinema's most famous characters.