Jar Jar Binks (Printed Head)
sw0301 · Star Wars
The Phantom Menace / The Clone Wars · 2011 (First debuted in Set 7929, The Battle of Naboo)
Figure ID
sw0301
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2011 (First debuted in Set 7929, The Battle of Naboo)
Rarity
Uncommon. While widely produced across several sets, it is a significant retired character variant no longer in production.
Head
Unique molded Gungan head made of soft plastic/rubber. Features printed yellowish-orange eyes with black pupils and tan printing on the snout. Long ears drape over the torso shoulders.
Torso
Dark brown vest with detailed black line printing showing Gungan garment patterns. Light flesh-colored arms and hands representing the character's skin tone.
Legs
Plain dark tan legs without printing. Standard adult minifigure leg height.
Accessories
This specific figure is usually paired with a Gungan shield or a Booma/Enerball, though none are shown in the image.
Color Scheme
Primary colors are Dark Tan and Brown, with Light Flesh accents on the arms and Tan/Orange tints on the head mold.
Printing Details
Moderate detail; includes torso printing (front only) and facial printing on the eyes and snout areas. This version marked a major upgrade in fidelity over the 1999 original.
Variants
The original 1999 version (sw0017) featured a simpler head and lower-detail torso. There is also a version with a small silver medallion on the torso (sw0513).
Condition Notes
The soft rubber head is prone to collecting dust and pet hair (as seen slightly in the image). The neck joint can loosen the print on the torso over time.
Estimated Value
$5.00 - $8.00 (Used); $10.00 - $15.00 (New/Mint conditions).
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from $24.99 (7929) to $89.99 (9499 Gungan Sub).
Compatible Sets
7929 The Battle of Naboo (2011), 9499 Gungan Sub (2012), 75080 AAT (2015), 75091 Flash Speeder (2015).
Character Background
Jar Jar Binks is a Gungan from the planet Naboo, serving as a key protagonist in 'Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace' and 'The Clone Wars' TV series.
Design Notes
Features a specialized head mold that fits over the torso's 'neck' but extends down both sides, which limits the range of arm motion compared to standard figures.
Similar Minifigures
Gungan Soldier (sw0302), Captain Tarpals (sw0512), and the original 1999 Jar Jar Binks (sw0017).
Collectibility
High for completionist Star Wars collectors. Jar Jar is a polarizing but iconic character, making him a staple for prequel-era displays.
History
Initially introduced in 1999, this 2011 redesign corrected the 'blank' eyes of the original, moving toward a more screen-accurate film representation.
Interesting Facts
The headpiece is unique because it is one of the few pieces that utilizes a dual-material feel (soft rubber) to prevent the long ears from snapping off during play.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a Naboo battle scene or alongside Queen Amidala and Qui-Gon Jinn. Keep in an airtight case to prevent the rubber head from degrading or attracting lint.
Modification Potential
The head is often used in MOCs for other Gungan characters or 'Darth Jar Jar' custom figures using Sith robes.
Overall Assessment
A solid, essential figure for Star Wars fans. While not the most valuable, its design is a massive improvement over the classic era and captures the character's look perfectly.