Lion Knight - Breastplate with Red Cloth, Blue Arms/Legs
cas046 · Castle
Lion Knights / King's Castle · 1990 context; this specific variation appeared from 1990 to 1992.
Figure ID
cas046
Theme
Castle
Year Released
1990 context; this specific variation appeared from 1990 to 1992.
Rarity
Uncommon. While part of mass-produced sets, its specific torso and limb color combination is localized to a few iconic early 90s sets.
Head
Classic LEGO yellow head with 'Standard Grin' (two black dots for eyes and a curved smile). No second face printing.
Torso
Red torso with silver/grey breastplate printing on the front. Features a black belt with a gold buckle at the waist. Blue arms and black hands.
Legs
Solid blue legs with blue hip piece. No printing on the legs or sides.
Accessories
Includes a Pearl Light Gray Neck Protector helmet (also known as a kettle hat). In its original sets, it would typically be equipped with a sword or spear and a shield featuring the Lion Knights crest.
Color Scheme
A 'Classic Castle' palette of Bright Blue, Bright Red, and yellow, accented with metallic silver ink on the torso and a neutral grey helmet.
Printing Details
Pad printing on the torso front only. The silver ink used for the armor is slightly textured. No back torso printing, which was standard for this era.
Variants
There are numerous similar 'Lion Knights.' Some have red arms, some have grey legs, and earlier 80s versions used a different 'hanging' crest instead of the breastplate design.
Condition Notes
The silver printing on the torso is prone to scratching and 'flaking' over time. The chin of the helmet often shows stress marks or cracks if forced onto the head too tightly.
Estimated Value
Used: $6.00 - $10.00 USD; New/Mint: $15.00+ USD. Price varies significantly based on the crispness of the torso silver print.
Price (New)
N/A; originally sold in sets ranging from $10.00 (6018 Battle Dragon) to $70.00 (6081 King's Mountain Fortress).
Compatible Sets
Set 6081 King's Mountain Fortress, Set 6018 Battle Dragon, and Set 1491 Dual-Axe Cart.
Character Background
Generic infantryman or knight for the Lion Knights faction (often led by the 'King' in early 90s lore). They defended the Mountain Fortress against the Black Knights.
Design Notes
This figure represents the transition from the 'Classic' 1984 aesthetic to the more detailed early 90s style, moving away from simple crests to depicted plate armor.
Similar Minifigures
cas047 (Red arms variant), cas001 (Classic Lion Knight with crest), and early 90s Black Knights.
Collectibility
High for 'System' era purists. Essential for anyone recreating the iconic 1990 'King's Mountain Fortress' layout.
History
Part of the second wave of the 'Lion Knights' faction, replacing the older 'Crusaders' style of the mid-1980s.
Interesting Facts
The silver ink on the breastplate was some of the most durable metallic ink LEGO used at the time, yet it is still highly susceptible to damage from skin oils and play.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on the ramparts of a vintage 6081 castle or in a 'phalanx' formation with 5-10 identical soldiers.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' MOCs. The blue legs and red torso are basic components that can be mixed with modern knight gear to create a retro-modern look.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential piece of LEGO Castle history. While the printing is simple by today's standards, its nostalgic value and importance to the 1990s product line make it a staple for collectors.