Chewbacca (Reddish Brown)
sw0011a · Star Wars
Original Trilogy · 2004 (First released in Chewbacca Reddish Brown variant in set 4504)
Figure ID
sw0011a
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2004 (First released in Chewbacca Reddish Brown variant in set 4504)
Rarity
Uncommon. While widely produced over a 10-year span, this specific variant with tan highlights but no printed bandolier represents the transition era between the classic 1999 mold and the modern 2014 detailed mold.
Head
Integrated with torso piece. Features a rounded top, molded fur texture, printed blue eyes, and tan-colored highlights on the 'mustache' and forehead area.
Torso
Sandwich-style large head/torso mold in reddish brown. Features tan fur printing on the chest and neck area. Unlike later versions, it lacks the iconic silver bandolier print. Rounded shoulders with standard reddish brown arms.
Legs
Standard reddish brown legs with tan fur printing on the front of the thighs/knees. No side or back printing.
Accessories
Classic LEGO crossbow (part 2570) in black. This represents his iconic Bowcaster prior to the introduction of the stud-shooter version in 2015.
Color Scheme
Primary color is Reddish Brown. Accent colors include Tan (fur highlights), Black (nose and crossbow), and Blue (small eye dots).
Printing Details
Pad printed tan highlights on the head, chest, and legs. The printing is relatively simple compared to modern standards, lacking the metallic silver used for his later bandoliers. Alignment is generally consistent due to the large flat surfaces of the fur mold.
Variants
sw0011 (Brown, 1999-2003), sw0532 (Detailed fur/bandolier, 2014), sw0011a (Reddish Brown with tan highlights, 2004-2012). This is the sw0011a version.
Condition Notes
The 'fur dress' torso piece can develop cracks at the arm sockets. The most common issue is fading or 'paint rub' on the tan highlights on the nose and knees. Reddish brown plastic from this era can occasionally be brittle.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD. New: $10.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is stable due to high volume of production across many sets.
Price (New)
Included in sets ranging from $7.00 (Millennium Falcon polybag) to $140.00 (75059 Sandcrawler). Never sold as a standalone retail figure.
Compatible Sets
4504 Millennium Falcon (2004), 10179 Ultimate Collector's Millennium Falcon (2007), 8038 The Battle of Endor (2009), 75059 Sandcrawler (2014), and others.
Character Background
Chewbacca is a Wookiee warrior, co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon, and best friend to Han Solo. This figure represents his appearance in the Original Trilogy (Episodes IV-VI).
Design Notes
This design utilizes the 'new' Reddish Brown color introduced by LEGO in 2004 to replace the previous Brown color. It is a 'hollow-bottom' torso design meant to fit over standard legs.
Similar Minifigures
sw0011 (Classic Brown Chewbacca), sw0535 (Tarfful), sw0532 (Modern Chewbacca), sw0763 (Snowy Chewbacca).
Collectibility
Medium. It is an essential character for any Star Wars collection, but because it appeared in so many sets for a decade, it is not considered a high-value investment piece.
History
This version replaced the 1999 original and served as the standard Chewbacca for 10 years until the 'molded bandolier' version arrived in the 2014 Kashyyyk wave.
Interesting Facts
Despite his importance, Chewbacca did not get back-printing or a bandolier print until 15 years after his LEGO debut. This specific ID (sw0011a) is often confused with sw0011 due to the subtle shift from Brown to Reddish Brown.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside a Han Solo minifigure from the 2004-2010 era to maintain aesthetic consistency. Fits perfectly in any Millennium Falcon cockpit or Echo Base MOC.
Modification Potential
The torso and head are one piece, limiting modification. The legs can be swapped for modern printed Wookiee legs to create a 'hybrid' classic look.
Overall Assessment
A nostalgic and durable representation of a legendary character. While it lacks the detail of modern figures, its simplicity and correct color profile make it a favorite for 'purist' collectors of the 2000s era.