Tauntaun (Large Horns / Narrow Eyes)
tauntaun02 · Star Wars
The Empire Strikes Back · 2011 context: Debuted in Set 7879 Hoth Echo Base during the 30th anniversary era of Empire Strikes Back.
Figure ID
tauntaun02
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2011 context: Debuted in Set 7879 Hoth Echo Base during the 30th anniversary era of Empire Strikes Back.
Rarity
Uncommon; while not exclusive to a single set, it appeared in fewer sets than the 2009 original, making it slightly more sought after.
Head
Molded grey head with narrow printed eyes and two large, tan, curved horns. The mouth is open to accommodate both a bit piece and a snout look.
Torso
The main body is a solid Light Bluish Gray mold with a 2x2 stud cutout for a rider and a tail section.
Legs
Two poseable Light Bluish Gray legs with molded claw/toe detail, attached via a click-hinge mechanism to the body.
Accessories
Includes a black flexible rubber bridle/reins piece (Part 63066) and usually paired with a saddle/rider assembly (not pictured).
Color Scheme
Primary color is Light Bluish Gray; horns are Tan; reins are Black; eyes are printed in Black and White.
Printing Details
Minimal printing; eye details are crisp and placed on the side of the head mold. No body printing is present on this version.
Variants
The 2009 version (tauntaun01) has thicker molded horns and larger, rounder eyes. This 2011 version is more 'cinematic' in its facial proportions.
Condition Notes
The tail and reins are the most fragile points. Check the leg hinges for 'floppiness' and the tan horns for bite marks or paint loss.
Estimated Value
$15.00 - $25.00 USD for the animal alone; can reach $35.00+ if bundled with the original Han Solo or Luke Skywalker Hoth minifigures.
Price (New)
Retail context: Set 7879 originally cost $89.99 USD in 2011, making the Tauntaun a mid-tier 'creature' investment.
Compatible Sets
7879 Hoth Echo Base (2011), 75014 Battle of Hoth (2013).
Character Background
Native to the ice planet Hoth, these snow-lizards were used by the Rebel Alliance as mounts due to their immunity to extreme cold.
Design Notes
One of LEGO's early successes in 'big-fig' animal molding, it captures the bipedal stance and hunched shoulders perfectly for playability.
Similar Minifigures
Dewback (Star Wars), Wampa (Star Wars), and the 2009 Tauntaun variant.
Collectibility
High for Star Wars completionists; essential for anyone building a Hoth-themed diorama or MOC.
History
Replaced the brick-built Tauntauns of the early 2000s, representing a shift toward specialized molds for Star Wars creatures.
Interesting Facts
The saddle area is specifically designed so a minifigure can sit while wearing a bulky 'Hoth gear' backpack piece.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a white/snow baseplate alongside Rebels. Use a transparent stand to mimic a running or jumping pose.
Modification Potential
Horns can be swapped for custom colors; the back hole fits standard 2x2 bricks for custom cargo or turret mounts.
Overall Assessment
An iconic LEGO Star Wars creature that holds its value well due to the enduring popularity of the Hoth battle sequence.