Jay - DX
njo011 · Ninjago
Pilot Episodes / Dragon Masters · 2011
Figure ID
njo011
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While it was available in three sets, the DX (Dragon Xtreme) variants are highly sought after by nostalgic collectors as they representative the first 'upgrade' suits in Ninjago history.
Head
Classic yellow Ninjago head with angry expression, high-placed bushy eyebrows, and small pupils. It is covered by a Blue Ninja wrap/turban (part 93060).
Torso
Blue torso with a large metallic gold dragon head print on the front, representing Jay's Lightning Dragon. The dragon breathes a white/lightning smoke trail. Reverse features the character name 'JAY' spelled in the fictional Ninjago script.
Legs
Blue legs and hips. The printing features a black belt tied at the side and a continuing metallic gold dragon tail/lightning pattern on the left leg (viewer's right).
Accessories
This specific figure is currently missing its primary accessory, the Nunchucks of Lightning (trans-neon green/yellow chain with gold handles), though in the DX line, he often came with a gold katana or a silver spear depending on the set.
Color Scheme
Primary: Blue. Accents: Metallic Gold, Black, and White. This specific shade of Blue represents Jay's elemental power of Lightning.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing with a 'foiled' metallic gold finish on the dragon logo. The print alignment was generally excellent during 2011, though the metallic gold is prone to rubbing off with heavy play.
Variants
There are several 'pilot' era Jay variants, including the standard outfit (njo004), Kendo (njo034), and ZX (njo047). The DX variant is distinguished specifically by the large dragon print.
Condition Notes
Check for fading or scratches on the metallic gold dragon print. The neck of the blue head-wrap is a common stress point. These early 2011 figures sometimes show heel cracks due to the type of plastic used.
Estimated Value
$10 - $20 USD used; $30 - $45 USD in brand new/mint condition. Value is heavily dependent on the crispness of the gold torso print.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from the $6.99 (Spinner) to $69.99 (Fire Temple). As a spinner figure, he was an affordable entry point for children in 2011.
Compatible Sets
2111 (Jay - Spinner), 2259 (Skull Motorbike), and 2507 (Fire Temple).
Character Background
Jay Walker, the Master of Lightning, is one of the four original protagonists of Ninjago. The DX (Dragon Xtreme) suit represents the ninja gaining their Dragon Power and the ability to summon elemental dragons.
Design Notes
The DX series was the first to use metallic ink extensively to denote a special power-up version of the characters. It uses the original 2011 ninja cowl mold which consists of two pieces (though often sold as one in aftermarket).
Similar Minifigures
Kai DX (njo009), Zane DX (njo020), Cole DX (njo023).
Collectibility
High. As the first 'special edition' suit for the main cast, it is essential for anyone aiming to complete a chronological Ninjago collection.
History
Launched as part of the initial Ninjago 'Pilot' wave, Jay DX signaled LEGO's shift toward character-driven storylines and 'power-up' variants that would define the brand for the next decade.
Interesting Facts
In the early TV episodes, the golden letters on the back of the DX suits were the only way to officially translate the Ninjago language before a full cipher was released.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside his Dragon (2506) or with the other three DX ninja to show the full elemental team. Use a UV-protected case to prevent the blue plastic from yellowing.
Modification Potential
Excellent for MOCs requiring high-quality blue ninja, but generally kept stock due to the value of the torso print.
Overall Assessment
The Jay DX minifigure is a classic piece of Ninjago history. Its standout gold dragon print and connection to the origins of the series make it a high-tier collector's item despite being reasonably obtainable.