Iron Man Mark 42 Armor
sh065 · Marvel Super Heroes
Iron Man 3 · 2013, released alongside the theatrical debut of the film Iron Man 3. This era marked a transition toward more intricate, film-accurate detailing in the Marvel line.
Figure ID
sh065
Theme
Marvel Super Heroes
Year Released
2013, released alongside the theatrical debut of the film Iron Man 3. This era marked a transition toward more intricate, film-accurate detailing in the Marvel line.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. It was only available in two sets from a specific movie wave that has long since retired, making it a desirable piece for MCU collectors.
Head
Features a light flesh head with Tony Stark's characteristic beard and a double-sided expression (determined / nervous). It is topped with a classic Iron Man helmet ensemble consisting of a dark red helmet with a gold hinged faceplate.
Torso
Dark red torso with gold and silver armor plating on both the front and back. The design accurately reflects the Mark 42 'Prodigal Son' armor with the circular Uni-Beam arc reactor. Arms are dark red with dark red hands.
Legs
Dark red legs with extensive gold armor printing on the front and hips. The printing includes knee plating and mechanical detailing consistent with the Mark 42 design.
Accessories
Typically includes two trans-light blue 1x1 round plates (studs) to represent repulsor blasts, which are attached to the feet. Some sets included trans-light blue power blasts or hand-held studs.
Color Scheme
A primary palette of Dark Red and Pearl Gold, which is the inverted signature scheme of the Mark 42 armor compared to traditional Iron Man suits (which are usually more red than gold).
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head, torso, and legs. The registration is typically very sharp, featuring metallic gold ink that catches the light effectively.
Variants
This specific armor (Mark 42) is unique to sh065, though a similar 'Heartbreaker' (sh073) and 'Mark 33' exist. Later versions of Iron Man moved toward more streamlined printing and different helmet molds.
Condition Notes
The gold printing on the toes is the most common wear point. The helmet hinge is prone to loosening over time, and the 'chin' of the faceplate often shows silver scuffs if played with heavily.
Estimated Value
Used complete versions range from $25 to $40 USD. New/Unused copies can exceed $55. Price fluctuates based on the condition of the gold leg printing.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from $12.99 (76006) to $39.99 (76007). The figure itself was a core selling point for both sets.
Compatible Sets
76006 Iron Man: Extremis Sea Port Battle and 76007 Iron Man: Malibu Mansion Attack.
Character Background
Tony Stark's 'Autonomous Prehensile Propulsion Suit' from Iron Man 3, which could fly in individual pieces to attach to his body. It is one of the most iconic armors from the Infinity Saga.
Design Notes
This figure uses the classic 'hinged' helmet mold which was the standard from 2012–2017 before LEGO introduced the newer, smaller single-piece helmets.
Similar Minifigures
Iron Man Mark 6 (sh015), Iron Man Mark 7 (sh036), and Iron Man Mark 17 Heartbreaker (sh073).
Collectibility
High demand. Iron Man suit collectors (Hall of Armor builders) consider this a staple piece due to its unique gold-dominant aesthetic and movie-specific history.
History
Part of the first major expansion of the Marvel theme. It represents a time when LEGO began creating multiple unique molds and prints for various Iron Man suits rather than simple recolors.
Interesting Facts
The Mark 42 armor is often nicknamed 'The Prodigal Son' in the film. This minifigure is one of the few Iron Man variants where gold is the primary color of the torso printing rather than red.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a 'Hall of Armor' MOC or alongside the Pepper Potts and Mandarin minifigures from the same wave. Use a clear trans-clear stand to show him in a flying pose.
Modification Potential
The head is frequently used for custom Tony Stark civilian builds. Body parts are popular for 'Iron Legion' MOCs or customized Stark-tech drones.
Overall Assessment
An A-tier minifigure for Marvel fans. It boasts excellent printing coverage and captures the specific look of the Mark 42 perfectly. It is a solid investment piece that has held value well.