Death Star Trooper (Imperial Navy Trooper)
sw0209 · Star Wars
Episode IV: A New Hope · 2008 context: Released in the massive 10188 Death Star set. This era marked a transition toward higher torso and leg detail for background characters.
Figure ID
sw0209
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2008 context: Released in the massive 10188 Death Star set. This era marked a transition toward higher torso and leg detail for background characters.
Rarity
Uncommon. While the set it came in was expensive and had a long production run, this specific version with leg printing was exclusive to the original 10188 and 75159 Death Star sets at various times.
Head
Plain black head beneath the helmet. Note: The character is defined by the unique Imperial Navy helmet (Part 61506) with side printing of the Imperial insignia.
Torso
Black torso with Imperial uniform pattern including silver metallic belt buckle, code cylinders, and subtle grey tunic lines. Includes back printing of the tunic seam.
Legs
Black legs with printed grey horizontal line patterns representing the top of the boots/tunic cuff. This leg printing distinguishes it from the cheaper sw0191 variant.
Accessories
Imperial Navy Helmet (H-fencing mask style) with printed silver Imperial logos. Usually originally equipped with a small black blaster.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic black with silver and light grey accents for equipment and rank indicators.
Printing Details
High quality for 2008. Features front and back torso printing plus rare (for the time) front leg line printing. Pad printing is crisp with metallic silver highlights.
Variants
sw0191 (no leg printing), sw0157 (light grey version), and later versions with fleshy heads beneath the helmet.
Condition Notes
The helmet is prone to losing the silver Imperial logos due to play wear. Black plastic shows scratches and 'bite marks' easily. Check for torso cracks under the arms.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. New: $15.00+ USD. The value is relatively stable due to the iconicity of the Death Star sets.
Price (New)
Included in set 10188 which retailed for $399.99 USD. Not available for individual purchase.
Compatible Sets
10188 Death Star (2008), 75159 Death Star (2016).
Character Background
Also known as Imperial Navy Troopers, these soldiers handled security, hangbay operations, and terminal monitoring aboard the Death Star and Star Destroyers.
Design Notes
Initial mold for the helmet captures the unique 'fencing mask' look of the film costumes perfectly. One of the first 'grunts' to receive leg printing to justify the high set price.
Similar Minifigures
sw0191 Imperial Navy Trooper, sw0522 Imperial Officer (Black Uniform), sw0623 Imperial Navy Officer.
Collectibility
Moderate. Essential for completing a Death Star diorama, but not high-value enough to be a standalone investment piece.
History
First introduced in grey in 2006, this 2008 black version set the standard for the character for nearly a decade before modern updates with face prints appeared.
Interesting Facts
The helmet mold is often mistaken by non-collectors as a 'chef hat' or 'biker' helmet, but it is actually a very accurate representation of the screen-used prop.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for standing at computer consoles or guarding hangar bays in a Star Wars MOC. Looks best when displayed in pairs.
Modification Potential
Great for 'Purist' customs; the legs and torso are excellent for generic black-clad sci-fi guards or custom Imperial officers.
Overall Assessment
A solid, screen-accurate representation of a classic Star Wars background character. Rated 7/10 for its era-appropriate detail and essential role in the Imperial army.
Notes
Got this form an old set my uncle gave me