Chancellor Palpatine - Episode 3
sw0631 · Star Wars
Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith · 2015. This figure debuted in the Final Duel set context (Palpatine's Arrest), aligning with LEGO's detail-oriented 'Episode 3' 10th anniversary era.
Figure ID
sw0631
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2015. This figure debuted in the Final Duel set context (Palpatine's Arrest), aligning with LEGO's detail-oriented 'Episode 3' 10th anniversary era.
Rarity
Rare. It was exclusive to a single, moderately priced retail set (75091) that had a relatively short shelf life, making it the most sought-after version of the 'Chancellor' persona.
Head
Light flesh tone with detailed elder facial wrinkles and a slight, cunning smirk. It features the tan/cool yellow 'swoop' hair piece (Part 15443) which accurately depicts his Revenge of the Sith hairstyle.
Torso
Dark Brown and Dark Red pattern. The printing represents his ornate Senate robes with a heavy collar and inner tunic detail. The back is also printed with robe contours. Arms are Dark Brown with Light Flesh hands.
Legs
Slope 2x2x2 (Skirt/Robe) element in Dark Red. It features elegant black line printing to represent the vertical pleats and folds of his formal Chancellor robes.
Accessories
As pictured, the figure does not have external accessories. In its original set, it came with a pair of translucent neon green lightning bolts (Force Lightning) and a silver hilt lightsaber with a red blade.
Color Scheme
A regal palette of Dark Red and Dark Brown, accented by black line printing and the light flesh skin tone. This reflects his high-status political attire before his scarring.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The torso features fine line work that transitions seamlessly into the slope piece. The facial printing is highly expressive compared to the older 'yellow' eras.
Variants
This specifically refers to the Episode 3 version. Other variants include the 2005 Episode 3 version (sw0121 with yellow skin), the Clone Wars version (sw0243), and the 'Palpatine's Arrest' version (sw0418) which has different robes.
Condition Notes
The Dark Red slope piece is prone to 'heel cracks' at the back connection points. The hairpiece is a rubbery material that can attract dust or suffer from plasticizer stickiness if stored poorly.
Estimated Value
The used market value for this figure in complete condition is approximately $35.00 - $55.00 USD. New/Unassembled versions can exceed $70.00 USD due to his status as a key Sith character.
Price (New)
This figure was included in set 75091 'Flash Speeder' which retailed for $29.99 USD in 2015, making the figure currently worth more than the entire original set retail price.
Compatible Sets
75091 Flash Speeder (2015) is the only official set containing this specific sw0631 minifigure identifier.
Character Background
Sheev Palpatine, the Dark Lord of the Sith (Darth Sidious), serving as the Supreme Chancellor. This design represents him at the climax of the Prequel trilogy just prior to his transformation into the Emperor.
Design Notes
The use of the dress/robe slope instead of standard legs is a deliberate design choice to convey the formal, non-combatant status of his political facade. The hairpiece mold was uniquely suited for him at the time.
Similar Minifigures
Palpatine (sw0418), Emperor Palpatine (sw0634), and Count Dooku (sw0472). These figures share the 'elder' printing aesthetic and regal Dark Red/Brown color themes.
Collectibility
High. Since this is the definitive 'modern' version of Chancellor Palpatine used for prequel-era dioramas and political MOCs, demand remains consistently high among Star Wars completionists.
History
Following the original 2005 release, LEGO waited a decade to update this specific outfit with modern flesh tones and high-fidelity torso printing, marking a major jump in accuracy.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an 'Episode 3' figure, he was included in a set featuring a Naboo Flash Speeder (associated with Episode 1), likely as a way for LEGO to distribute the figure to fans who missed previous versions.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a stand with Force lightning in hands, or within a Senate Chamber MOC. Keep away from direct sunlight as Dark Red is notorious for fading into a dull brown over time.
Modification Potential
The head and hair are frequently used by customizers to create a 'civilian' or 'Senate' version of Palpatine using different colored capes and the 2x2 slope element.
Overall Assessment
An essential figure for any LEGO Star Wars collector. Its unique printing and limited set availability make it a standout piece from the 2015 era. Excellent quality and screen accuracy.