AT-ST Driver (Pointed Helmet)
sw0401 · Star Wars
Ultimate Collector Series · 2012
Figure ID
sw0401
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2012
Rarity
Uncommon but highly sought after. It is specific to only a few sets from the early 2010s, making it more desirable than the updated current versions.
Head
Classic LEGO light flesh head with a determined smirk and gritted teeth. The helmet is a white Imperial AT-ST mold with red Imperial insignias on the sides and a black/grey communication device print on the front.
Torso
White torso with AT-ST flight suit detail, featuring life support control boxes in red and black, grey ribbing, and dark grey belt detail. Dark grey arms and black hands.
Legs
Dark bluish grey plain legs with a light bluish grey hip piece, matching the flight suit utility look seen in 'Return of the Jedi'.
Accessories
Standard black medium blaster (E-11 rifle) and the specialized Imperial AT-ST Driver helmet which is the standout piece of this figure.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic white and grey palette with small accents of red and black for technical Imperial controls.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso and helmet. The helmet features very precise red Imperial cogs that are prone to centering issues on some batches, but this specimen looks excellent.
Variants
Earlier versions featured different helmet molds without the 'pointed' chin detail. Later versions (sw0797 and sw0952) changed the jumpsuit to light bluish grey and updated the facial printing to more modern styles.
Condition Notes
The white helmet is susceptible to yellowing over time if exposed to sunlight. Torso side-cracks are a potential issue with figs from this era. Check the neck for stress marks.
Estimated Value
Used: $8.00 - $12.00; New/Mint: $15.00 - $20.00. Value fluctuates based on the condition of the helmet printing.
Price (New)
Came in set 10227 B-Wing Starfighter ($199.99) and 9679 AT-ST & Endor ($9.99). The individual component value was higher in the planet set due to price-per-part ratios.
Compatible Sets
Set 10227 UCS B-Wing Starfighter (2012), Set 9679 AT-ST & Endor (2012).
Character Background
Imperial AT-ST Pilots (also known as Driver Gunners) were specialized Imperial Army pilots who operated the All Terrain Scout Transports during the Galactic Civil War.
Design Notes
This version is celebrated for the helmet mold which captures the unique 'beak' or pointed chin of the film costume better than the earlier flat-faced versions.
Similar Minifigures
sw0093 (AT-ST Driver 2003), sw0797 (AT-ST Driver 2016), sw0952 (Imperial AT-ST Driver 2018).
Collectibility
High for Imperial army builders. While not as expensive as rare Jedi, it is a staple figure for any Star Wars collection focused on 'Return of the Jedi' or 'The Empire Strikes Back'.
History
Represents the middle-era of LEGO Star Wars design where printing became highly detailed but before the move to more cartoony facial expressions seen in the Rebels era.
Interesting Facts
The helmet for this figure is often used by MOC builders to create custom Imperial technicians and naval officers due to its screen-accurate appearance.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside a 75322 Hoth AT-ST or within an Imperial hangar scene. Clear acrylic cases help prevent the white plastic from yellowing.
Modification Potential
Great for 'purist' customs. The torso can be swapped onto black legs for a more 'Death Star' crew aesthetic, or the helmet can be used for custom TIE pilots.
Overall Assessment
A solid 8/10 figure. It is the definitive 'Standard' AT-ST pilot for many collectors before LEGO moved to the darker grey jumpsuits in later waves.