Darth Vader (Medal / Celebration)
sw0464 · Star Wars
Promotional / LEGO Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out · 2013 - Released as an exclusive pack-in for the Blu-ray/DVD release of 'The Empire Strikes Out' animated special.
Figure ID
sw0464
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2013 - Released as an exclusive pack-in for the Blu-ray/DVD release of 'The Empire Strikes Out' animated special.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. It was only available through a specific home media release, though it was produced in relatively high numbers during that promotion.
Head
Standard Darth Vader head (Light Flesh tone) with scarring detail. Includes the iconic two-piece helmet (though older versions used a one-piece mold, this specific ID typically utilized the classic one-piece helmet of that era).
Torso
Black torso with Darth Vader's life support suit printing. Notably features a large, molded or printed 'medal' with a bright yellow ribbon around the neck, unique to this commemorative version.
Legs
Plain black legs without printing. This is standard for most Vader figures of this specific era, focusing the detail on the torso and medal.
Accessories
Includes a black fabric cape. Interestingly, this version typically did not come with a lightsaber as it represents the character during an award ceremony scene.
Color Scheme
Dominant black with light flesh for the head. Accents include silver, red, and blue for the control panel, and a bright yellow ribbon for the medal.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso representing the chest plate and belt. The medal ribbon is printed over the suit detail. Head features detailed scarring and sunken eyes.
Variants
This is a variant of the standard Darth Vader. There are no sub-variants of sw0464, but it is distinct from the 2011 'Celebration Luke' or 'Celebration Han' similar-themed figures.
Condition Notes
The cape is prone to fraying and creasing. Check for 'neck cracks' on the torso under the arms and ensure the white/silver printing on the chest hasn't faded due to handling.
Estimated Value
Used: $15 - $25 USD; New (in original polybag or with DVD/Blu-ray): $35 - $50 USD. Prices fluctuate based on the stiffness and condition of the cape.
Price (New)
Originally included with the 'LEGO Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out' DVD/Blu-ray, which retailed for approximately $15.00 - $19.99 at launch.
Compatible Sets
2856197 (The Empire Strikes Out Blu-ray/DVD combo pack).
Character Background
Based on the humorous non-canon ending of the 'Empire Strikes Out' special where Vader is jealous of the rebels' medals and eventually receives his own for 'Best Boss'.
Design Notes
The use of the medal print makes this a 'humor' figure, a recurring trend in LEGO Star Wars promotional items to differentiate them from standard movie-accurate figures.
Similar Minifigures
sw0297 Celebration Luke Skywalker, sw0356 Celebration Han Solo, and sw0209 Darth Vader (Classic).
Collectibility
High. LEGO Star Wars completionists seek this out as one of the few 'alt-outfit' Vaders. It is a staple for fans of the LEGO Star Wars animated specials.
History
Follows the tradition of the 2011 'The Padawan Menace' release which also included an exclusive minifigure. It represents the height of LEGO's humor-based Star Wars marketing.
Interesting Facts
In the film it's based on, Vader is desperate for the Emperor's approval. This medal represents a rare 'happy' moment for the character in the LEGO parody universe.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed alongside Celebration Han and Luke on a custom podium, or in a specific promotional/polybag minifigure shadow box.
Modification Potential
The head and helmet are standard, so they can be used for any Vader MOC. The torso is very specific and hard to repurpose for serious builds.
Overall Assessment
A wonderful, quirky addition to any collection. While not the most expensive figure, its charm and 'non-canon' status make it a standout piece of LEGO Star Wars history.