Ghostbusters Firehouse HQ - Janine Melnitz
gb003 · Ghostbusters
Ultimate Collector Series / Large Scale Sets · 2016 - Released specifically within the Firehouse Headquarters set.
Figure ID
gb003
Theme
Ghostbusters
Year Released
2016 - Released specifically within the Firehouse Headquarters set.
Rarity
Rare. This minifigure is exclusive to a single, high-priced, retired set (75827).
Head
Double-sided printing: one side with a neutral/smug expression and red lipstick, the other with a terrified expression. Includes her signature pearl-sand-blue glasses and short bright-red hair piece.
Torso
Dark pink/magenta cardigan over a white blouse with subtle floral/pattern printing. Dark tan arms and light flesh hands.
Legs
Plain dark-blue mid-length skirt piece or standard legs (set dependent, usually dark blue).
Accessories
The specific accessory in the foreground is a Pearl Gold Minifigure Neck Bracket with 2 Back Studs (often used for proton packs). However, for Janine, she typically uses standard office accessories found in the set like a telephone or computer.
Color Scheme
Primarily dark pink, white, and dark blue, reflecting her 1984 movie attire. The accessory shown is Pearl Gold.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso and head. The floral pattern on the blouse is very fine, typical of high-end UCS-style sets of the mid-2010s.
Variants
This is the only classic movie version of Janine Melnitz produced by LEGO. A version of her appearing in 'The Real Ghostbusters' style exists in the Dimensions line (hp065), but it is a different design.
Condition Notes
The neck bracket pictured is prone to 'stress marks' or whitening of the plastic if the Proton Pack is removed and reattached too frequently. The torso is durable, but Janine’s hair piece is a specific mold that can suffer paint rub on the tips.
Estimated Value
The minifigure alone is valued between $45.00 and $60.00 USD. The gold neck bracket piece itself is worth approximately $0.15 - $0.50.
Price (New)
Item was included in set 75827 which retailed for $349.99 USD.
Compatible Sets
75827 Firehouse Headquarters (2016).
Character Background
Janine Melnitz is the cynical but dedicated secretary for the Ghostbusters, portrayed by Annie Potts. She is a fan-favorite character known for her sharp wit and relationship with Egon Spengler.
Design Notes
The use of the pearl gold neck bracket (pictured) was a specific choice for the Ghostbusters line to represent the brass/copper components of the Proton Packs.
Similar Minifigures
Dana Barrett (gb005), Louis Tully (gb004), and the four original Ghostbusters (Peter, Ray, Egon, Winston).
Collectibility
High. Since it is exclusive to a retired $350 set, it is a high-priority item for Ghostbusters completionists.
History
Launched during the first wave of 'Classic' Ghostbusters sets following the success of the LEGO Ideas Ecto-1. It marked the first and only time the Firehouse staff were rendered in LEGO.
Interesting Facts
While the gold bracket in your photo belongs to a Ghostbuster's proton pack, it is frequently found sitting on Janine's desk in the set's instruction manual as 'equipment being repaired'.
Display Suggestions
Display inside a custom acrylic case with the Firehouse HQ or on a stand alongside the Ecto-1 (21108).
Modification Potential
The gold neck bracket is a versatile part for MOC builders making steam-punk characters or specialized military backpacks.
Overall Assessment
The accessory belongs to any of the Ghostbusters in set 75827, specifically identifying the 'Janine' context of the surrounding parts. The minifigure is a Top-Tier collector's item due to set exclusivity.
Notes
Who does this belong to