Hoth Rebel Trooper (Tan Vest, White Helmet)
sw0068 · Star Wars
Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back · Released in 2004 during the transition period between classic yellow and modern flesh-tone LEGO Star Wars figures.
Figure ID
sw0068
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
Released in 2004 during the transition period between classic yellow and modern flesh-tone LEGO Star Wars figures.
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limited promotional item, it was only included in one original LEGO set and was quickly superseded by redesigned versions.
Head
Yellow classic smiley head with single-sided printing, featuring black eyes and a simple smile; includes a white Rebel Hoth helmet with molded goggles.
Torso
Tan vest over a light gray jacket; features a black rank insignia and horizontal stitching lines. No back printing. Comes with light gray arms and white hands.
Legs
Plain white legs with a white hip piece. No printing is present on the legs or sides.
Accessories
Commonly paired with a dark gray blaster pistol or rifle (not shown in image). The figure in the image is wearing the classic white Rebel Hoth helmet piece.
Color Scheme
Primary colors are white and light gray, with a tan torso. The yellow head is characteristic of early 2000s LEGO Star Wars.
Printing Details
Basic pad printing on the torso front only. The detail level is low compared to modern figures, typical of the first generation of LEGO Star Wars evolution.
Variants
Variants include sw0252 (with a more detailed face/goggles) and sw0016 (orange rank insignia). This specific version is sw0068 with the black rank pips.
Condition Notes
Susceptible to yellowing of the white plastic on the legs and helmet. Torso prints are prone to fading if exposed to sunlight. Check for cracks in the heels and torso sides.
Estimated Value
Between $8.00 - $15.00 USD for used complete; New/unplayed figures may reach $20.00+ depending on the condition of the tan torso print.
Price (New)
Original set 4500 Rebel Snowspeeder (2004) retailed for approximately $19.99 USD.
Compatible Sets
Appears exclusively in set 4500 (Rebel Snowspeeder, 2004).
Character Background
Rebel Alliance ground forces stationed at Echo Base on Hoth during the opening act of The Empire Strikes Back.
Design Notes
Notable for being one of the final Hoth troopers to utilize the classic yellow head before the switch to 'Light Nougat' flesh-toned skin in late 2004/2005.
Similar Minifigures
sw0016 (Rebel Hoth Trooper), sw0252 (Hoth Rebel Trooper Redesigned), and various Hoth Rebel Officers like sw0259.
Collectibility
Highly collectible for 'Old School' LEGO Star Wars fans who prefer the yellow-skin era and classic set aesthetic. Demand remains stable due to its army-building nature.
History
Follows the original 1999/2000 design but features updated torso pips; this specific mold for the helmet is legendary among early Star Wars fans.
Interesting Facts
This specific figure represents the visual style of the second wave of LEGO Star Wars, bridging the gap between simplified 1999 styles and the detailed 2005+ sets.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for Battle of Hoth dioramas using white baseplates; looks best alongside the 4500 Snowspeeder or the original 7166 Imperial Shuttle.
Modification Potential
Great for 'Classic' style MOCs. The white and gray limbs are highly versatile for customizing other early-2000s space-related characters.
Overall Assessment
An iconic piece of LEGO Star Wars history. While it lacks modern detail, its charm and 'Yellow-Head' nostalgia make it a staple for any serious Star Wars collector.