Darth Vader (Medal Celebration)
sw0464 · Star Wars
The Empire Strikes Back / Character Encyclopedia · 2013
Figure ID
sw0464
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2013
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare; it was exclusive to the LEGO Star Wars Character Encyclopedia (Updated and Expanded Edition) and was never sold in any building sets.
Head
Light flesh head with Anakin Skywalker's scarred printing; includes a dual-sided face showing his pale, damaged features and a standard black Vader helmet consisting of two pieces (top and chin section).
Torso
Black torso with detailed mechanical suit printing including the life support chest box and belt; features printed medals (a small silver medallion) attached to the chest area specifically for this version.
Legs
Standard black legs with grey and silver printing to represent the pleated fabric of his robes and the paneling of his suit's lower armor.
Accessories
Trans-red lightsaber blade with a flat-silver hilt and a black fabric cape. Note: In the image, the hilt appears to be the standard silver variant.
Color Scheme
Predominantly black with accents of silver, light grey, red and light blue on the chest plate indicators.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head, torso, and legs. Unique medal printing on the torso distinguishes this from other Vader figures of the same era.
Variants
This is a specific variant based on a non-canon 'medal ceremony' concept or promotional celebration. It is distinct from the regular sw0585 or sw0209 common variants due to the torso print.
Condition Notes
The cape is prone to fraying at the edges. The helmet's two-piece design can become loose over time. Check for scratches on the metallic silver printing of the chest box.
Estimated Value
Used: $20 - $35 USD; New (sealed with book): $45 - $60 USD. Values vary based on the state of the cape and helmet clutch.
Price (New)
Retail price was approximately $18.99 USD, the cost of the LEGO Star Wars Character Encyclopedia book.
Compatible Sets
Included exclusively with the 2013 LEGO Star Wars Character Encyclopedia (ISBN 9781465408549).
Character Background
Darth Vader, formerly Anakin Skywalker, is the primary antagonist of the Star Wars original trilogy. This specific figure is a 'fun' variant celebrating the character's legacy within the LEGO encyclopedia series.
Design Notes
First iteration to include the highly detailed chest box and medal printing; utilizes the 1999-style one-piece helmet mold in early versions, though later updated to the two-piece mold.
Similar Minifigures
sw0585 Darth Vader (Tan Tan), sw0209 Darth Vader (Chrome Black), sw1129 Darth Vader (Arm Printing).
Collectibility
High for completionists due to its book-exclusive nature. It has maintained steady value and remains a popular oddity in the Vader collection.
History
First released in 2013 as part of DK Publishing’s line of LEGO encyclopedias which frequently include exclusive figures to drive sales to collectors.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an 'evil' Sith Lord, this figure wears a medal, mirroring the medal celebration from the end of A New Hope where he was notably absent as the medal recipient.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside other encyclopedia exclusives like White Boba Fett or Celebration Luke to show the evolution of book-exclusive figures.
Modification Potential
Excellent for purist customs; the head can be used for damaged Anakin MOCs, while the legs are standard high-detail black suit parts.
Overall Assessment
A unique and charming variant of the franchise's most iconic character. Its exclusivity makes it a standout piece for Darth Vader variant hunters and Star Wars completists.