Spider-Man - Red Lower Face
sh038 · Marvel Super Heroes
Ultimate Spider-Man · 2012 (Debuted in set 6873 Spider-Man's Doc Ock Ambush)
Figure ID
sh038
Theme
Marvel Super Heroes
Year Released
2012 (Debuted in set 6873 Spider-Man's Doc Ock Ambush)
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it appeared in several sets between 2012 and 2014, it was the standard 'comic-style' Spider-Man for that era.
Head
Red with black web pattern and large white eyes with black outlines. This specific head (part 3626bpb0748) features a solid red chin area without the 'neck gap' found on modern variants.
Torso
Red with black spider logo on front, blue sides, and black web pattern. The back features a large red spider symbol. The arms are solid blue with red hands.
Legs
Plain red legs with no printing. This is a distinguishing feature as many modern versions use dual-molded or printed blue/red legs.
Accessories
None shown in image. Originally typically packaged with a trans-clear web vine or web blast element.
Color Scheme
Classic Red and Blue. The red is standard LEGO bright red and the blue is standard bright blue, matching the 616 Earth-source material.
Printing Details
Pad printed. High contrast black webbing on the red plastic. The printing is limited to the head and the front/back of the torso; legs and arms are unprinted.
Variants
This is the 'sh038' version. It differs from the 2002-2004 movie versions which had silver webbing, and later versions (sh420+) which introduced dual-molded legs and different eye shapes.
Condition Notes
Common wear includes 'arm cracks' (vertical stress marks on the torso sides) and fading of the black spider logo on the chest. The head print can occasionally suffer from 'nose rub' where the print wears off the center of the face.
Estimated Value
Used: $5.00 - $8.00 USD; New: $12.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is stable but low due to high production volume.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from $12.99 (polybags/small sets) to $49.99.
Compatible Sets
6873 Doc Ock Ambush, 76004 Spider-Cycle Chase, 76005 Daily Bugle Showdown, 10665 Spider-Car Pursuit, 30302 Spider-Man Glider (Polybag).
Character Background
Based on the Disney XD 'Ultimate Spider-Man' animated series version of Peter Parker, characterized by his younger age and 'fourth-wall-breaking' humor.
Design Notes
This figure marked the return of Spider-Man to the LEGO lineup after a 7-year hiatus following the end of the Sony Spider-Man trilogy sets. It uses a more vibrant, cartoonish aesthetic compared to the 2004 figures.
Similar Minifigures
sh002 (Classic 2002), sh420 (Homecoming), sh635 (Integrated Suit), and the Miles Morales sh190.
Collectibility
High for completionists, but considered a 'starter' figure for most Marvel collectors. It is essential for a 2010s-era Marvel collection.
History
Launched the modern Marvel Super Heroes line. It bridge the gap between the rare vintage 2000s figures and the highly detailed modern dual-molded figures.
Interesting Facts
Despite being 'Ultimate Spider-Man,' this figure is often used by fans as the 'Standard Comic' Spidey because the costume is so traditional and lacks movie-specific flourishes.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a clear 'action stand' to simulate swinging. Pairs perfectly with the 2012-era Doc Ock or Venom figures.
Modification Potential
Excellent for purist customs; the unprinted red legs are often swapped for dual-molded red/blue legs from newer sets to create an 'Ultimate' version.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential LEGO minifigure. While it lacks the detail of current releases, it captures the iconic silhouette of the character perfectly. Quality rating: 7/10.