Royal Guard
sw0040 · Star Wars
Star Wars Episode 4/5/6; Classic · 2001 (debut in set 7166 Imperial Shuttle)
Figure ID
sw0040
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2001 (debut in set 7166 Imperial Shuttle)
Rarity
Uncommon. While not ultra-rare, this specific version with the black hands and simpler printing was only produced between 2001 and 2005, making it a nostalgically significant piece for early Star Wars collectors.
Head
Plain yellow head with classic smiley face (two dots for eyes and a smile), though often obscured by the helmet. This specific image shows a later or alternate light flesh head with dot eyes peeking through the slit.
Torso
Red torso with simple black and white printing of a ceremonial robe fold/zipper. Red arms with black hands. No back printing was standard for this era.
Legs
Plain red legs with a black hip piece. No printing on the legs or sides.
Accessories
Red Royal Guard Helmet (exclusive mold at the time) and a black Technic axle/pin or spear piece used as a Force Pike. The example in the photo is holding a black spear/staff.
Color Scheme
Dominant Red with Black accents. Designed to mimic the Crimson Guard of Emperor Palpatine.
Printing Details
Minimalist pad printing. The torso features a diagonal white 'zipper' or robe seam with basic black shading. This era of printing is known for being thick but prone to 'fuzzing' or rubbing off on the edges.
Variants
sw0040 (2001-2005) has black hands; sw0040a (2008) has red hands. Later versions (sw0521) featured vastly more detailed printing, dark red robes, and a different helmet mold with a visible face area.
Condition Notes
The red plastic of the 2000s is prone to showing 'stress marks' (turning white) at the neck and wrists. Torso cracking under the arms is common. The helmet edge can become 'chewed' or dented if played with roughly.
Estimated Value
Used: $5.00 - $12.00 USD. New/Mint: $15.00 - $20.00 USD. Values fluctuate based on the tightness of the arm joints and clarity of the torso print.
Price (New)
Originally available in Set 7166 ($30.00 retail) and Set 10123 Cloud City ($100.00 retail), as well as various Magnet Sets.
Compatible Sets
7133 Bounty Hunter Pursuit (as disguise), 7166 Imperial Shuttle, 10123 Cloud City, 10143 Death Star II, 65081 Star Wars Co-Pack.
Character Background
The Emperor's Royal Guard (Imperial Guard) are the silent, deadly protectors of Palpatine, chosen from the best stormtroopers. They first appeared in 'Return of the Jedi'.
Design Notes
The helmet was a landmark piece for LEGO Star Wars, utilizing a unique mold that was remarkably accurate to the film for the time. It utilized the standard 'blank' head to maintain the mystery of the guard.
Similar Minifigures
Senate Guard (sw0244), Shadow Guard (sw0604), and the updated 2014 Royal Guard (sw0521).
Collectibility
High for 'Classic' Star Wars collectors. It represents the early aesthetic of the license. While newer versions are 'better' designs, sw0040 holds significant nostalgia value.
History
Launched in 2001 during the second year of the LEGO Star Wars license. It remained the definitive version of the character for nearly seven years before minor revisions began.
Interesting Facts
Despite their popularity, the original 2001 Royal Guard spent most of its set appearances standing perfectly still, much like their movie counterparts. The red helmet mold remained unchanged for over a decade.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in pairs flanking a Classic Emperor Palpatine or standing at the ramp of an Imperial Shuttle (7166). Use UV-protected cases to prevent the vibrant red from fading over time.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' customs; the helmet is often used by fans to create customized medieval knights or futuristic fantasy warriors.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential classic. It may lack the detail of modern figures, but its bold color scheme and iconic silhouette make it a standout in any collection. Quality: 8/10 for its era.