Stormtrooper (Dual Molded Helmet, Gray Grille)
sw0997 · Star Wars
The Original Trilogy / 20th Anniversary Edition · First released in 2019. It debuted during the 20th Anniversary of LEGO Star Wars, representing a significant shift toward 'dual-molding' technology for helmets.
Figure ID
sw0997
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
First released in 2019. It debuted during the 20th Anniversary of LEGO Star Wars, representing a significant shift toward 'dual-molding' technology for helmets.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it appeared in several popular sets and battle packs, the 'dual-molded' helmet variant is more sought after than the older printed versions.
Head
The head is a standard light flesh-toned 'Angry Clone' face (ID: 3626cpb2393), featuring black bushy eyebrows and a scowling expression. It is hidden beneath the iconic white Stormtrooper helmet.
Torso
White torso with highly detailed armor plating print on the front and back. It features a gray utility belt and accurate chest plate curves. Arms are white with black hands to represent gloves.
Legs
White legs with black hip joints. The printing includes detailed knee plates, shin guards, and thigh armor. There is no side-leg printing on this specific variant.
Accessories
Standard black medium-sized blaster (E-11 blaster rifle). The helmet itself is the primary unique accessory, featuring dual-molded black and white plastic with gray printed vents.
Color Scheme
Classic Imperial white and black with light gray accents for the mechanical vents and grille details. The flesh-tone head is the only break from the monochromatic palette.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso and legs. The helmet is the standout, using dual-molded plastic so that the black 'visor' and 'frown' areas are part of the mold rather than just printed on.
Variants
This is the 'Gray Grille' version. Another variant (sw1233) looks nearly identical but has slight changes in torso detailing or is featured in newer 'Mech' or 'Diorama' sets.
Condition Notes
Watch for loose neck joints and 'yellowing' of the white plastic if exposed to UV light. The helmet's white surface is prone to scuff marks. Check for hair-line cracks on the heels and torso sides.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $6.00 USD; New: $7.00 - $10.00 USD. Prices are stable because of the high volume of these produced for army building.
Price (New)
Mostly found in sets ranging from the $15.00 Battle Packs to the $160.00 20th Anniversary Slave I. Per-figure value was originally ~$4.00.
Compatible Sets
75235 X-Wing Starfighter Trench Run, 75243 Slave I – 20th Anniversary Edition, 75262 Imperial Dropship – 20th Anniversary Edition.
Character Background
The ubiquitous foot soldiers of the Galactic Empire, known for their white plastoid armor and (notoriously poor) marksmanship in the Star Wars films.
Design Notes
The dual-molded helmet introduced in 2019 was controversial among fans because it is larger than previous versions and prevents the head from turning fully, but it is much more screen-accurate in shape.
Similar Minifigures
sw0585 (Rebels version), sw0188 (Classic 2008 version), or sw1102 (Hoth Scout Trooper).
Collectibility
High for 'Army Builders' who want to create massive dioramas. It is a fundamental unit for any Star Wars collection.
History
LEGO Stormtroopers began in 2001 with very simple yellow heads. This 2019 version represents the peak of armor-accurate molding before the subtle prints of 2023.
Interesting Facts
The 'dual-molding' process means the black mouth-grille is actually a separate piece of plastic injected into the white mold, making the color permanent and crisp.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in ranks of 4 or 8. Place alongside a Darth Vader (sw1029) or inside an Imperial Shuttle build for maximum impact.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' customs; the legs and torso are great bases for custom bounty hunters or other Imperial officers.
Overall Assessment
A solid, highly-detailed trooper. While the 'chinny' helmet design divides fans, the printing quality makes it one of the most 'premium' feeling standard troopers LEGO has produced.