Emperor Palpatine (Yellow Eyes, Tan Head, Spongy Cape)
sw0634a · Star Wars
Ultimate Collector Series / Episode VI: Return of the Jedi · 2015-2017
Figure ID
sw0634a
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2015-2017
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While the figure itself appeared in a few sets, the specific version with the spongy cape and the high-detail torso is mostly associated with larger, more expensive playsets and the Character Encyclopedia.
Head
Light Flesh head with Sith-yellow eyes, heavy grey wrinkles, and a grimacing expression. It is dual-sided, typically featuring a standard angry face and a more aggressive 'Force lightning' shouting face. It comes with a black textured hood piece.
Torso
Black torso with high-detail grey printing representing Sith robes. Features intricate lining and a buckled belt design. Back printing continues the robe texture. Arms are plain black with light flesh hands.
Legs
Standard black legs with grey printing on the hips and upper legs to represent the continuation of the robe and the bottom of the sash.
Accessories
Includes two Trans-Light Blue 'Force Lightning' pieces (zigzag mold) and a black soft spongy-fabric cape. Unlike earlier stiff capes, this material allows for more natural sitting of the figure.
Color Scheme
A dark, menacing palette of Black and Light Flesh, accented by Sith-yellow eyes and Trans-Light Blue lightning.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The 'wrinkle' detail on the head is significantly more advanced than the classic 2000s versions. Torso lines are sharp and clear, intended to mimic the layered look of a robe.
Variants
Standard variations include sw0634 (stiff cape) and sw0634a (soft cape). There are also earlier versions (sw0041) with yellow skin and later versions from the 'Rise of Skywalker' sets with different eye printing.
Condition Notes
The soft cape is prone to fraying at the collar holes if removed frequently. Check for 'neck cracks' on the torso and hair/dust trapping in the spongy cape texture.
Estimated Value
Current market value for a used complete figure is approximately $15.00 - $25.00 USD. New/Mint condition can reach $35.00+.
Price (New)
This specific figure was included in the 75093 Death Star Final Duel ($79.99 retail) and also appeared in a promotional context with the DK Star Wars Character Encyclopedia: Updated and Expanded book ($18.99).
Compatible Sets
75093 Death Star Final Duel (2015), 75159 Death Star (UCS 2016), and the 2016 Character Encyclopedia.
Character Background
Sheev Palpatine, also known as Darth Sidious, is the primary antagonist of the Skywalker Saga. This version represents his appearance in 'Return of the Jedi' during the final confrontation with Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader.
Design Notes
Introduced the more accurate 'tan/light flesh' skin tone for the character, moving away from the pale grey/white heads of previous years. The hood mold is the modern version which fits closer to the shoulders.
Similar Minifigures
sw1106 (Final Star Destroyer version), sw0595 (Senate Duel version), and sw0041 (Classic Yellow version).
Collectibility
High demand among Star Wars collectors. The Emperor is a staple character for any 'Master Builder Series' or 'UCS' display, making this detailed version a must-have.
History
The Emperor has evolved from a simple yellow-faced figure in 2000 to this highly detailed, double-sided head version. This specific iteration represents the peak of 'Original Trilogy' accuracy before the 2020 redesign.
Interesting Facts
The lightning pieces changed from an older, more 'hand-like' mold to this sharper bolt mold specifically to increase playability and screen accuracy.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a raised platform (throne) or between two Royal Guards (sw0521) to recreate the Death Star throne room scene.
Modification Potential
The head is often used for custom 'Sith Lord' MOCs. The torso is a versatile 'dark robe' piece useful for many medieval or high-fantasy customs.
Overall Assessment
9/10. An excellent representation of the character with great printing and a superior cape material. It remains the definitive 'classic' Emperor for most collectors.