Hologram Emperor Palpatine (Trans-Green)
16478 / 87429 · Star Wars
Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back · Released in 2010. This was a transitional era for LEGO Star Wars as they began incorporating more unique translucent microfigures for holographic communications following the 10th anniversary of the theme.
Figure ID
16478 / 87429
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
Released in 2010. This was a transitional era for LEGO Star Wars as they began incorporating more unique translucent microfigures for holographic communications following the 10th anniversary of the theme.
Rarity
Uncommon. It is not mass-produced like standard minifigures but was included in a relatively popular mid-range set. It is rarer than the Trans-Light Blue versions.
Head
The piece is a microfigure scale mold. The head features a molded hood representing the Sith cloak; there is no printing on the face due to the scale and translucent material.
Torso
Non-articulated microfigure torso with molded details suggesting robes and a chest cavity. The arms are molded in a static, slightly outward position with claw-like hands.
Legs
The lower body consists of a single molded piece representing a robe base with two hollow studs on the bottom for mounting on LEGO plates. No articulation or printing.
Accessories
None. This figure is a single-piece mold and does not support standard minifigure accessories.
Color Scheme
Trans-Dark Green. This is a unique color choice as most Star Wars holograms were produced in Trans-Light Blue; the green represents the specific lighting or Sith aesthetic of the communication.
Printing Details
None. This figure relies entirely on its sculpt and the refractive properties of the Trans-Dark Green polycarbonate plastic.
Variants
The 'Hologram' piece exists in Trans-Light Blue (more common), Trans-Neon Orange, and Solid Light Bluish Gray. This Trans-Green version is specific to the 2010 release.
Condition Notes
The polycarbonate material is prone to hairline fractures if applied with too much pressure to studs. Check for scuffing on the hood and clarity of the plastic; 'foggy' plastic indicates heavy play wear or chemical exposure.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD. New: Often sold as part of the complete set, but individual 'new' pieces fetch roughly $10.00 USD.
Price (New)
Included in set 8097 Slave I (2010) which retailed for $81.99 USD. It was not available for individual purchase.
Compatible Sets
8097-1: Slave I (3rd edition, 2010). It is often incorrectly associated with the 75055 Star Destroyer which used the blue variant.
Character Background
Represents Sheev Palpatine (Darth Sidious) appearing via hologram to Boba Fett or Darth Vader. In the context of the 8097 set, it represents the bounty hunter's communication with the Empire.
Design Notes
This is a 'statue' or 'trophy' scale figure. The mold is designed to fit into a 1x1 circular area. The use of Trans-Green is a notable deviation from the standard blue hologram seen in the films, likely a design choice to make the figure stand out.
Similar Minifigures
Hologram Darth Vader (Trans-Blue), Hologram Emperor (Trans-Blue), and various microfigures from the LEGO Games line or the 75055 Imperial Star Destroyer.
Collectibility
Medium. It is a niche item for Star Wars completists. While not a 'Grail' piece, it is highly desired by those building dioramas of Imperial ships or those collecting every variant of the Emperor.
History
First introduced in this color in 2010. The microfigure mold itself was a staple of the late 2000s/early 2010s before being largely replaced by the even smaller 'trophy' pieces in some themes.
Interesting Facts
Despite it being labeled as the Emperor, many fans use this Trans-Green piece in MOCs as a 'Miniature Swamp Creature' or a generic Sith ghost due to its eerie green glow.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a 1x1 trans-clear round plate with a light brick beneath it to capture the 'holographic' glow effect. It looks excellent in a display case next to the 8097 Slave I.
Modification Potential
Great for use in micro-scale MOCs as a statue on a building or as a decorative element in a wizard's laboratory for other themes like Castle or Ninjago.
Overall Assessment
A unique and aesthetically pleasing variant of a classic Star Wars element. Its color makes it a standout piece for any microfigure collection. Quality Rating: 8/10.