Darth Maul
sw0003 · Star Wars
Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace · 1999 - Released alongside the debut of the Star Wars line at the New York Toy Fair and the premiere of Episode 1.
Figure ID
sw0003
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
1999 - Released alongside the debut of the Star Wars line at the New York Toy Fair and the premiere of Episode 1.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While it appeared in several early sets, its status as one of the original 1999 'Holy Grail' figures makes high-quality examples increasingly difficult to find.
Head
Black base with printed red Sith tattoos and yellow eyes. This original 1999 version used a standard minifigure head without the molded horns found on later iterations.
Torso
Black torso with light gray line-work depicting Sith robes and a visible utility belt. It features solid black arms and black hands.
Legs
Standard solid black legs with a black hip piece. No printing is present on the legs or sides.
Accessories
In this image, the figure is missing its double-bladed red lightsaber (consisting of a 4L metallic silver hilt and two trans-red 4L bars). No headgear or cape was included with this specific version.
Color Scheme
Primarily black with red and yellow accents on the head. The torso printing utilizes light stone gray for contrasting robe details.
Printing Details
Pad-printed head and torso front. There is no back printing on the head or torso, which is characteristic of LEGO designs from the late 90s.
Variants
This is sw0003 (standard 1999 face). Variants include sw0003a (which has a slightly different pattern on the head) and sw0321 (the 2011 version with molded horns).
Condition Notes
Prone to 'silvering' or fading of the light gray lines on the torso. The black plastic often shows scratches or 'bite marks' more easily than lighter colors. Check for neck cracks.
Estimated Value
Used (Complete): $15—$25; New/Mint: $40—$60; Incomplete (as shown): $8—$12.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from the Sith Infiltrator ($29.99) to the Lightsaber Duel ($5.99).
Compatible Sets
7101 Lightsaber Duel (1999), 7151 Sith Infiltrator (1999), 3341 Star Wars #2 Minifig Pack (2000), 7159 Podracing Bucket (2000).
Character Background
Darth Maul, the Zabrak Sith Apprentice to Darth Sidious, first appeared in Star Wars: Episode I. He is known for his acrobatic combat style and double-bladed lightsaber.
Design Notes
This figure is a 'Classic' style LEGO Star Wars design, utilizing simple line art before LEGO moved toward more complex shading and molded prosthetic pieces.
Similar Minifigures
sw0321 (Darth Maul with horns), sw1155 (20th Anniversary Darth Maul), sw0001 (Battle Droid), sw0005 (Classic Obi-Wan Kenobi).
Collectibility
High. As one of the original characters from the inception of the LEGO Star Wars license, it is essential for completionists documenting the history of the theme.
History
This figure represents the first-ever LEGO Sith Lord. It set the standard for iconic character representation before the specialized molding era began.
Interesting Facts
Despite having horns in the film, LEGO did not create a horn mold for Maul until 2011, relying solely on face printing for 12 years.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the 1999 Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon Jinn to recreate the 'Duel of the Fates' scene. Use a UV-protected case to prevent the black plastic from becoming brittle.
Modification Potential
Commonly used in 'Retro MOCs.' Many collectors swap the head onto a torso with back-printing for a 'modern-classic' hybrid look.
Overall Assessment
A foundational piece of LEGO history. While simple by modern standards, its iconic head print and legacy status make it a standout for any serious Star Wars fan.