Stormtrooper (Dual Molded Helmet, Gray Squares on Back, Frown)
sw0997b · Star Wars
Original Trilogy / 20th Anniversary · First released in 2019. This variant appeared significantly in 20th Anniversary sets; it marked the introduction of the dual-molded helmet style.
Figure ID
sw0997b
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
First released in 2019. This variant appeared significantly in 20th Anniversary sets; it marked the introduction of the dual-molded helmet style.
Rarity
Uncommon. While mass-produced in several sets from 2019-2022, this specific dual-molded helmet style is being phased out for newer designs, increasing its desirability for those who prefer this mold.
Head
Standard 'Angry Clone' face (frown expression) on a flesh-toned head. The helmet is the definitive feature: a dual-molded white and black piece that lacks the ability to turn due to its oversized chin design.
Torso
White torso with Stormtrooper armor pattern (2019 update). Includes black hands and arms; the printing features a detailed utility belt and refined chest plate lines. Back printing includes the thermal detonator and gray square cooling vents.
Legs
Plain white legs with a black hip joint. No printing on the legs, which was a common point of criticism compared to the highly detailed torso and helmet.
Accessories
Typically supplied with a standard black medium blaster (blaster rifle) or a stud-shooter depending on the specific set (none pictured).
Color Scheme
Classic monochromatic White and Black. The dual-molding on the helmet adds a matte black finish to the vocoder and eye areas that previous printed versions lacked.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso. The helmet is not printed for its primary black sections, but rather dual-injected plastic, ensuring the 'paint' never rubs off the eyes or frown area.
Variants
Variants include sw0997 (standard), and versions with 'flesh' colored heads vs older yellow or black 'head-placeholder' studs. This version (sw0997b) uses the modern printed face.
Condition Notes
The dual-molded helmet is prone to 'helmet wobble' on the neck peg. White plastic is highly susceptible to UV yellowing. Check for 'heel cracks' on the back of the legs and torso side-cracks under the arms.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $6.00 USD; New: $7.00 - $9.00 USD. Prices fluctuate based on the volume of army-builders seeking specifically this helmet style.
Price (New)
Contained in sets ranging from $14.99 (Battle Packs) to $150.00+ (75244 Tantive IV).
Compatible Sets
75262 Imperial Dropship – 20th Anniversary Edition, 75244 Tantive IV, 75229 Death Star Escape, 75235 X-Wing Starfighter Trench Run.
Character Background
The anonymous elite shock troops of the Galactic Empire. This specific design reflects their appearance in 'A New Hope' and 'The Empire Strikes Back'.
Design Notes
The 2019 dual-molded helmet was controversial because it is larger than previous versions, effectively preventing the minifigure from looking left or right when wearing armor/pauldrons. However, it is the most movie-accurate sculpt to date.
Similar Minifigures
sw0585 (Rebels Stormtrooper), sw0188 (Classic 2008 Stormtrooper), sw1235 (2023 version with updated helmet print).
Collectibility
Medium-High. Stormtroopers are the most 'army-built' figures in LEGO history. Collectors often buy dozens to create dioramas, ensuring a steady secondary market demand.
History
LEGO Stormtroopers began in 2001 with simple yellow heads. This 2019 design represented a major shift toward 'total accuracy' via new molding technology before LEGO reverted to a slightly smaller printed mold in 2023.
Interesting Facts
This helmet design is often called the 'Family Guy' or 'Bulldog' Stormtrooper by fans because of the slightly exaggerated, drooping jowls and chin.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in ranks or squads of 4 on a light gray baseplate. Works excellently alongside the 20th Anniversary Darth Vader or inside a 75290 Mos Eisley Cantina set.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' customs. The torso is widely considered the best 'clean' Stormtrooper armor and is often paired with different helmets from third-party manufacturers like Clone Army Customs.
Overall Assessment
A solid, highly detailed minifigure that captures the iconic Star Wars look. While the helmet functionality is limited, the aesthetic quality is peak LEGO Star Wars. A must-have for army builders.