Darth Vader (Medal)
sw0464 · Star Wars
LEGO Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Out · 2013 (Released as an exclusive with the 'Empire Strikes Out' DVD/Blu-ray DVD bundle)
Figure ID
sw0464
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2013 (Released as an exclusive with the 'Empire Strikes Out' DVD/Blu-ray DVD bundle)
Rarity
Uncommon / Rare. It was only available for a limited time as a promotional pack-in with a specific DVD release, though thousands were produced.
Head
Standard Darth Vader light flesh head with scowling expression and scarring; includes the classic two-piece style (helmet and face) or older single-mold helmet depending on the specific batch packaging.
Torso
Black torso with unique 'Imperial Medal' printing including a circular silver award with a star emblem, draped over Vader's standard chest control panel.
Legs
Plain black legs without printing, which is standard for Vader figures of this specific era.
Accessories
Includes a black fabric cape (spongy or starched depending on production run). Note: This promotional figure notably does not come with a lightsaber in its original packaging.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic black with white, silver, and red accents for the medal and chest plate printing.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The medal detail is crisp and contains unique iconography not found on any other Vader variant.
Variants
This is a unique variant of sw0001/sw0209; the only variant of Vader featuring a medal. No other official versions of this specific 'Award Ceremony' Vader exist.
Condition Notes
Watch for fraying on the black cape and 'cape holes' stretching. Standard black plastic shows scratches easily under bright light.
Estimated Value
Used: $15–$25; New (Still in polybag): $35–$50 USD.
Price (New)
Bundled with a $15-$20 DVD movie; not sold as a standalone retail set.
Compatible Sets
2856197 (Empire Strikes Out DVD promotional polybag).
Character Background
Based on the non-canonical LEGO Star Wars special 'The Empire Strikes Out', where Vader is hilariously obsessed with his 'Greatest Star Destroyer' award.
Design Notes
A 'tongue-in-cheek' design that emphasizes the humor in LEGO's animated media rather than film accuracy.
Similar Minifigures
sw0465 (Celebration Luke), sw0304 (Celebration Han), sw0209 (Classic Darth Vader).
Collectibility
High for 'completionist' Star Wars collectors due to its novelty and unique torso print.
History
Part of a series of promotional figures including 'Celebration' versions of Han Solo and Luke Skywalker that accompanied LEGO Star Wars films.
Interesting Facts
Despite Vader never receiving a medal in the films, this figure remains a fan favorite because it acknowledges the 'Everyone gets a medal' trope from Episode IV.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the 'Celebration' Luke and Han figures from the visual dictionaries to complete the 'Awards' trio.
Modification Potential
The torso is often used for 'What if?' MOCs or customized to create a more formal Imperial gala Vader.
Overall Assessment
A charming and affordable exclusive that captures the unique humor of the LEGO Star Wars franchise. A must-have for Vader variant hunters.