Chrome Silver Darth Vader (Promotional)
sw0218 · Star Wars
Promotional / 10th Anniversary · 2009 (10th Anniversary of LEGO Star Wars)
Figure ID
sw0218
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2009 (10th Anniversary of LEGO Star Wars)
Rarity
Very Rare. Limited to a production run of 10,000 units worldwide, randomly inserted into 2009 LEGO Star Wars sets.
Head
Standard 2009 Vader 'scared' head (flesh tone with scarring) underneath a unique Chrome Silver Vader helmet mold.
Torso
Chrome Silver finish over a standard black torso base. Includes detailed mechanical control panel printing in primary black/gray/red colors.
Legs
Standard Chrome Silver legs with black hip joints. No side or toe printing.
Accessories
Chrome Silver lightsaber hilt with a trans-red blade and a standard black fabric cape.
Color Scheme
Highly reflective Chrome Silver (Vacuum Metalized) with black, red, and blue accent printing for life-support systems.
Printing Details
Pad-printed over a chrome-plated surface. High precision on the chest plate and belt to ensure ink adhesion to the slick chrome finish.
Variants
This is the primary variant. A similar Chrome Gold version (only 5 units exist) and standard black versions (sw0209) are the closest relatives.
Condition Notes
Chrome plating is highly susceptible to 'flaking' or 'pitting' if handled. Fingerprint oils can etch the surface over time; scratching is common on the helmet dome.
Estimated Value
Used: $500 - $800; New/Sealed in Polybag: $1,200 - $1,800. Values vary wildly based on chrome mirror-finish quality.
Price (New)
N/A (Randomly inserted 'Golden Ticket' style into sets ranging from $10 to $100 retail).
Compatible Sets
Randomly inserted into all 2009 Star Wars sets, including 7748, 7749, 8017, and 8038.
Character Background
Darth Vader, the iconic Sith Lord. This 'Chrome' version was a commemorative design rather than a screen-accurate representation.
Design Notes
LEGO utilized a Vacuum Metalizing process where a thin layer of real metal is evaporated onto the plastic parts. This was one of the last major chrome-plated figures.
Similar Minifigures
Chrome Gold C-3PO (sw0158), Chrome Stormtrooper (sw0252), White Boba Fett (sw0274).
Collectibility
Extremely high. It is a 'holy grail' item for Star Wars collectors due to its limited distribution and the nostalgia of the 10th anniversary.
History
Followed the success of the 2007 Chrome C-3PO. It marked a decade of the Star Wars license, which saved LEGO from financial ruin in the early 2000s.
Interesting Facts
Despite the 10,000 unit claim, many were lost to the 'secondary market' via employees or remained undiscovered in unsold stock for years.
Display Suggestions
UV-protected acrylic case. Do not display in direct sunlight as heat can cause the chrome layer to expand and crack (crazing).
Modification Potential
Low. Any modification significantly destroys the secondary market value of such a rare item.
Overall Assessment
A masterpiece of LEGO promotional history. Its unique reflective finish and rarity make it a standout piece in any high-end collection.
Notes
Crome helmet, almost like a space suit