Plumber (Collectible Minifigures Series 9)
col132 · Collectible Minifigures
Series 9 · 2013 (January release). This was the peak of the blind-bag era when LEGO was expanding CMF characters into more specific occupational parodies.
Figure ID
col132
Theme
Collectible Minifigures
Year Released
2013 (January release). This was the peak of the blind-bag era when LEGO was expanding CMF characters into more specific occupational parodies.
Rarity
Uncommon. While part of a mass-produced blind bag series, Series 9 is over a decade old, making it difficult to find in mint condition.
Head
Standard yellow-tone skin with a smile, mustache, and sideburns. Dual-sided: No. It features a specific 'working man' facial print common to City themes but stylized for this series.
Torso
Red long-sleeved shirt under dark blue overalls with silver buckle prints. Features a red bandana/neckerchief print and back printing showing the overall straps.
Legs
Dark blue hips and legs with a printed red tool belt and red boots (achieved through dual-molding or layout printing).
Accessories
A white bar/pipe and a specialized red plunger element. The plunger consists of a small brown or reddish-brown handle and a specialized red rubber-cap piece.
Color Scheme
Primary Colors: Red and Dark Blue. This is a deliberate homage to a specific iconic video game character (Mario), using standard LEGO hues.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the CMF line. Detail includes the texture of the overalls and the utility belt. The alignment on the legs for the boots is a key quality marker.
Variants
No official LEGO variants of this specific ID exist, though various City plumbers have been released. This particular design is unique to Series 9.
Condition Notes
Main wear points are the plunger cap (rubber can attract dust/lint) and the silver buckle printing on the torso. Check for 'cracked heels' on the legs.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $10 - $15 USD; New (sealed bag): $20 - $25 USD. Prices vary based on the condition of the rubber plunger cap.
Price (New)
$2.99 USD (Original retail price per blind bag in 2013).
Compatible Sets
71000 LEGO Minifigures - Series 9 (Individual blind bag).
Character Background
Official lore describes him as a humble hero who can fix any leak. However, he is widely recognized by the fan community as a cheeky 'stealth' tribute to Nintendo's Mario.
Design Notes
The use of the red cap and blue overalls is a clever way for LEGO to reference pop culture without a licensing agreement. The molded plunger was a new part at the time.
Similar Minifigures
Mario (LEGO Super Mario electronic figure), Series 15 Janitor, City Plumber (set 60113 or 60139 variants).
Collectibility
High. Because of the subtle Mario reference, this figure is highly sought after by both CMF completionists and Nintendo fans.
History
Part of the ninth wave of the ground-breaking Collectible Minifigure line, which transitioned the brand into adult-market appeal through nostalgia and specific character tropes.
Interesting Facts
The 'Plumber' is often paired by collectors with the 'Series 14 Zombie Cheerleader' or other CMFs to create comedic dioramas. It is one of the most famous 'unofficial' pop culture tributes in LEGO history.
Display Suggestions
Place him next to a green pipe MOC or alongside the official LEGO Super Mario figures to highlight the design evolution. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent the red plastic from fading.
Modification Potential
Excellent base for a 'purist' Mario custom (simply swap the head for an even more expressive mustache). The torso is highly useful for farm or mechanical MOCs.
Overall Assessment
A 9/10 CMF. It perfectly encapsulates why the CMF line is successful: it's a high-quality, charming figure that serves a dual purpose as a generic occupation and a pop-culture icon.