Panda Suit Guy
col181 · Collectible Minifigures
Series 12 · Released in 2014. This was a peak era for the CMF line, characterized by the introduction of many popular 'suit' costumes that became fan favorites.
Figure ID
col181
Theme
Collectible Minifigures
Year Released
Released in 2014. This was a peak era for the CMF line, characterized by the introduction of many popular 'suit' costumes that became fan favorites.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. As a Series 12 figure from 2014, it is discontinued and only available on the secondary market. The panda is one of the more sought-after 'animal suit' figures.
Head
The head features a standard yellow minifigure head underneath. The key feature is the specialized Panda head piece (mold 18274), which is white with black ears and characteristic black patches around orange-gold eyes.
Torso
The torso is white with black arms and black hands. The front printing features a black border and a large white circular 'belly' patch to simulate an animal costume suit.
Legs
The legs are black with a white printing at the hip area to continue the panda's white belly/underbody design.
Accessories
The original figure includes a small 2x2 round plate with a printed pattern representing a 'I love Pandas' tile and a standard black 4x12 display stand (not pictured).
Color Scheme
Strictly Black and White (monochrome) to match a Giant Panda, with the exception of the orange/amber eyes on the mask.
Printing Details
High quality pad printing. The white printing on the solid black hips is notably thick to ensure opacity, which was a technical achievement for LEGO at the time.
Variants
There is a similar 'Panda' figure in the Lego Movie line (tlm052), but that version has different torso printing and holds a panda doll. This specific version is the CMF Series 12 variant.
Condition Notes
The white printing on the black hips is prone to cracking or scratching. The white torso and headpiece are susceptible to yellowing if exposed to UV light/sunlight.
Estimated Value
Used complete: $8.00 - $12.00 USD; New/Sealed in packet: $15.00 - $20.00 USD.
Price (New)
Originally retailed for $3.99 USD in a blind-bag format in October 2014.
Compatible Sets
71007 Collectible Minifigures Series 12.
Character Background
Part of the ongoing series of minifigures who dress up in mascot-style animal costumes. He is portrayed as a gentle person who simply loves pandas.
Design Notes
The panda head mold is accurate and distinct. The choice of amber eyes adds a level of realism and 'soul' to the mascot costume compared to flat black dots.
Similar Minifigures
Bunny Suit Guy (Series 7), Chicken Suit Guy (Series 9), Gorilla Suit Guy (Series 3), and Penguin Boy (Series 16).
Collectibility
High. 'Costume Suit' figures are one of the most popular sub-collections within the CMF line. Collectors often aim to own every animal-suit character.
History
Launched during the second great expansion of the CMF line. It followed the success of the Gorilla and Lizard suits, cementing the 'suit guy' as a staple of every new series.
Interesting Facts
The 'I Love Pandas' tile intended for this figure is often used by fans in Zoo-themed MOCs (My Own Creations). This mold was later repurposed for other bears with different prints.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a dedicated CMF acrylic case or alongside other animal suit minifigures (the 'LEGO Zoo'). Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent the white plastic from turning yellow.
Modification Potential
The headpiece is highly useful for custom 'We Bare Bears' or Kung Fu Panda style builds. The monochrome torso is also useful for formal-wear customs.
Overall Assessment
A classic CMF entry. It holds its value well and remains a quintessential example of LEGO’s humor and creativity in the blind-bag era. Score: 8.5/10.