Irina Spalko Soldier (Russian Soldier)
iaj015 · Indiana Jones
Kingdom of the Crystal Skull · 2008
Figure ID
iaj015
Theme
Indiana Jones
Year Released
2008
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limitied edition, this theme was short-lived (2008-2009) and the Indiana Jones license has a high barrier to entry for modern collectors due to nostalgia.
Head
Light flesh tone with a stern, determined expression. Thick black eyebrows and a small mustache with a mouth line. It is a single-sided head piece.
Torso
Dark Tan with detailed printing of a military uniform. Features two buttoned pockets, a vertical button line, and a belt. Back is printed with uniform seam lines and belt continuation.
Legs
Dark Tan legs with a continuation of the belt print from the torso. Features hip and leg printing to represent the bottom of the tunic and pants. Black boots are printed at the bottom.
Accessories
Includes a Dark Tan Garrison Cap (Sidecap). Depending on the set, it commonly includes a dark gray rifle or submachine gun matching the era.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic Dark Tan military aesthetic with black and brown printing for uniform details. Flesh-toned hands.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing for the era. Features fine lines on the chest pockets and a distinctive belt buckle. Print alignment on the hips/legs is a common indicator of authenticity.
Variants
There are three primary Spalko Soldier variants: iaj015 (Standard), iaj016 (With different head/goggles), and iaj017 (Cemetery Warrior context). This is the standard infantry version.
Condition Notes
Prone to hairline cracks on the sides of the torso (under the arms). Check for silvering or fading on the belt print which often rubs off with play.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $8 - $12 USD; New: $15 - $20 USD. Value is rising slightly with the release of the 2023 Indiana Jones sets which skipped this specific movie.
Price (New)
Originally included in sets ranging from $10.00 (7196) to $80.00 (7627). In 2008, the per-figure value was roughly $3.50.
Compatible Sets
7196 Chauchilla Cemetery Battle, 7627 Temple of the Crystal Skull, 7628 Peril in Peru.
Character Background
A Soviet soldier serving under Colonel Dr. Irina Spalko during the search for the Crystal Skull in 1957. They serve as the primary antagonists in the fourth film.
Design Notes
This figure marked LEGO's return to realistic military-style uniforms, though strictly labeled as 'villains' from the film to satisfy internal brand guidelines.
Similar Minifigures
German Soldiers from the Last Crusade sets (iaj007), Temple Guard (iaj032), and modern City Police for uniform similarities.
Collectibility
Moderate. Highly desirable for army building by MOC creators who build Cold War or military dioramas. Demand remains steady among Spielberg/Indy fans.
History
Launched in the first wave of 'Kingdom of the Crystal Skull' sets. It was the first time LEGO represented Soviet-era military gear.
Interesting Facts
The hat mold was relatively rare at the time of release, having only appeared in a few previous sets before becoming a staple for Indy military figures.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a jungle or desert diorama alongside the Jungle Cutter or the GAZ-46 amphibian vehicle (Set 7625).
Modification Potential
Excellent for military MOCs. The torso is often used for custom WWII-era British or Soviet soldiers with simple head/hat swaps.
Overall Assessment
A solid, well-printed licensed minifigure. While not 'high-value' compared to main characters like Indy, its utility for army building makes it a staple for collectors.