R2-Q5
sw0213 · Star Wars
Star Wars: Episode VI: Return of the Jedi · 2009 (First appeared in Set 10188 Death Star)
Figure ID
sw0213
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2009 (First appeared in Set 10188 Death Star)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While released in several sets, the most prominent set (10188) was expensive ($400+), making the figure less common than standard R2-D2 variants.
Head
Half-cylinder dome piece in black with silver and copper printing. Features characteristic astromech sensor eye and vents (holographic projector/indicator lights).
Torso
Standard Astromech body cylinder in black. Front printing features silver, copper, and white panel detailing mimicking a specialized Imperial droid's layout.
Legs
Standard Astromech legs (left and right) in solid black. No printing is present on the legs in this version.
Accessories
None specifically typically included with the figure, though it's displayed on a 3-point stand configuration using its own leg and body parts.
Color Scheme
A sleek Imperial palette consisting of Black, Silver, and Copper (Dark Orange/Tan metallic accents).
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the dome (360-degree style) and the front of the cylindrical body. Includes metallic silver inks for industrial detailing.
Variants
There are older versions (sw0036) with simpler grey printing and a newer version (sw1056) with updated, more detailed paneling found in 'Imperial TIE Fighter' sets.
Condition Notes
Watch for 'silvering' or rubbing on the dome printing. The black plastic can show white stress marks at the leg attachment points (circular friction pins) if removed frequently.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $8.00; New: $10.00 - $15.00 depending on the exact variant and set origin.
Price (New)
Retail set prices ranged from $39.99 (9492 TIE Fighter) to $399.99 (10188 Death Star).
Compatible Sets
10188 Death Star (2008-2015), 9492 TIE Fighter (2012), 7958 Star Wars Advent Calendar (2011).
Character Background
R2-Q5 was an Imperial astromech droid stationed on the second Death Star. It served the Galactic Empire by performing maintenance and security tasks during the Battle of Endor.
Design Notes
Utilizes the classic 3-piece assembly (Dome, Body, 2 Legs). The copper colored vents on the dome are specific to this Imperial droid design to distinguish it from R2-D2.
Similar Minifigures
R2-D2 (sw0217), R5-J2 (sw0375), R4-P17 (sw0157), and other Imperial astromechs like R2-D0.
Collectibility
High for 'Droid Army' builders and Imperial enthusiasts. It is a staple for Death Star or Star Destroyer dioramas.
History
R2-Q5 first appeared in the early 2000s (black/grey). This 'sw0213' version represented the modern standard for several years before being retired for a higher-detail mold.
Interesting Facts
In the Star Wars universe, R2-Q5 was reportedly one of the few droids capable of carrying encrypted messages for Emperor Palpatine personally.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside other Imperial officers and 501st Legion clones (seen in background of image) to create an Imperial hangar bay scene.
Modification Potential
Good for custom R-series droids. The dome is often used for custom Imperial spy droids or MOC Death Star bridge layouts.
Overall Assessment
A classic and visually striking alternate color for the R2 unit. Its dark color scheme contrasts perfectly with the typical blue/white droids, making it a must-have for Galactic Empire collectors.