Elite Clone Trooper (Special Forces)
sw0378 · Star Wars
Expanded Universe / Star Wars: The Old Republic · 2012; debuted in set 9488 Elite Clone Trooper & Commando Droid Battle Pack during a peak era of Star Wars: The Clone Wars popularity.
Figure ID
sw0378
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2012; debuted in set 9488 Elite Clone Trooper & Commando Droid Battle Pack during a peak era of Star Wars: The Clone Wars popularity.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare; while originally in a budget-friendly battle pack, it was short-lived and remains the only official LEGO representation of this specific armor variant, making it highly sought after by army builders.
Head
Standard 'Angry Clone' flesh-tone head (3626cpb0645) used during the 2012-2018 era, featuring black eyebrows and a grimace. Not unique to this figure.
Torso
White torso with detailed grey and black armor plating, featuring a distinct blue triangle on the center chest and thin blue highlights. Features back printing showing thermal detonator and specialized pack details. Arms are white with black hands.
Legs
White legs with grey armor printing on the hips and knees. The design follows the Phase II styling or specialized 'ARC' style printing consistent with Old Republic/Expanded Universe aesthetics.
Accessories
Usually equipped with a standard black blaster or a long blaster rifle. In original packaging, this figure is part of a squad that also includes an ARC Trooper with a cloth pauldron and kama, which this figure does not typically wear.
Color Scheme
Primary white with dark grey armor accents, black undersuit lines, and signature 'Special Forces' blue triangle markings on the helmet and chest.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing for the 2012 era. Includes detailed helmet vents, chest blue insignia, and precise knee plate alignment. Lacks the modern arm printing or toe printing seen in 2020+ figures.
Variants
None; this specific print pattern with the blue triangle forehead marking is unique to sw0378. It is often confused with the ARC Trooper (sw0377) from the same set, which has more elaborate blue markings.
Condition Notes
The white plastic is highly susceptible to UV yellowing over time. Check the 'neck' of the torso for hairline cracks and ensure the blue triangle on the helmet hasn't been scratched or rubbed off due to play.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $12 - $18 USD; New/Mint: $25 - $35 USD. Individual helmet: $5 - $8 USD. Values fluctuate based on the demand for army building.
Price (New)
Included in set 9488 which retailed for $12.99 USD in 2012. The set contained 4 minifigures, giving this figure an initial value of approx. $3.25.
Compatible Sets
9488 Elite Clone Trooper & Commando Droid Battle Pack (2012).
Character Background
Based on specialized troopers from the Star Wars: The Old Republic era or generic 'Special Forces' troopers from the expanded universe. They serve as elite reconnaissance or strike teams alongside ARC troopers.
Design Notes
Notable for the 'Prototype' or 'Old Republic' style helmet mold which differs slightly from standard Phase II Clone helmets in the chin and visor curvature. The blue triangle is the defining design hallmark.
Similar Minifigures
sw0377 ARC Trooper, sw1303 Phase II Clone Trooper (501st), and sw0541 Airborne Clone Trooper.
Collectibility
High; collectors of Clone Trooper variants view this as a 'must-have' niche variant. Investment potential is stable as LEGO rarely revisits Old Republic era characters.
History
Released during the 2012 Winter Wave. It marked a transition point where LEGO began experimenting with more complex armor printing and specialized helmet molds for the Expanded Universe and The Clone Wars.
Interesting Facts
Despite being named 'Elite Clone Trooper' in catalogs, fans often refer to it as the 'Special Forces Trooper' because of its appearance in marketing for the Star Wars: The Old Republic game.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for a 'Grand Army of the Republic' display. Pairs perfectly with the blue ARC Trooper from the same set or in a specialized 'Delta Squad' style MOC. Use a UV-protected case to prevent the white plastic from aging.
Modification Potential
Excellent for purist custom 'Delta Squad' or 'Republic Commando' clones. The helmet is a favorite for custom painters who want a more aggressive visor shape than the standard P2 helmet.
Overall Assessment
A standout figure from the Golden Age of LEGO Star Wars battle packs. Its unique printing and 'tough' aesthetic make it a 9/10 for Clone Trooper enthusiasts. High recommendation for purchase while prices remain under $20.