Chewbacca (Reddish Brown)
sw0011a · Star Wars
Classic Trilogy · 2004 (debuted in set 10131 TIE Collection)
Figure ID
sw0011a
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2004 (debuted in set 10131 TIE Collection)
Rarity
Common; this specific version was mass-produced across several sets during the mid-2000s transition to Reddish Brown.
Head
The head and hair are integrated into a single 'head-haid' piece that fits over a neck stud. It features white eyes and subtle facial detailing molded in Reddish Brown.
Torso
Reddish brown torso with the iconic silver/metallic grey and black bandolier printing on the front. No back printing is present on this specific version.
Legs
Plain Reddish Brown legs without printing. Standard LEGO minifigure leg mold.
Accessories
Typically includes a black crossbow (Bowcaster), though none are pictured in the hand. Earlier versions occasionally included a brown satchel/pouch.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic Reddish Brown with silver/grey metallic accents for the bandolier.
Printing Details
Simple pad printing on the chest for the bandolier and white dots for eyes. This version lacks the facial printing (mouth/fur highlights) found in modern versions (sw0532+).
Variants
The original 1999 variant (sw0011) is Brown. This 2004 variant (sw0011a) is Reddish Brown. Later versions have more detailed facial printing and darker fur highlights.
Condition Notes
Susceptible to 'brittle brown' syndrome which affects Reddish Brown pieces from this era, leading to potential cracks in the torso or legs. Check for silver paint wear on the bandolier.
Estimated Value
New: $8-$12 USD | Used Complete: $3-$6 USD | Incomplete: $1-$2 USD.
Price (New)
Retail context ranges from small sets ($20) to large sets ($100+). Individual market value remains low due to high production volume.
Compatible Sets
10131 TIE Collection, 7256 Jedi Starfighter and V-wing, 6212 X-wing Fighter, 10144 Sandcrawler, 7260 Wookiee Catamaran.
Character Background
Chewbacca is a Wookiee warrior, smuggler, and co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon. He is Han Solo's loyal companion and a hero of the Rebel Alliance.
Design Notes
This version represents the first major color shift for Chewbacca (from Brown to Reddish Brown). The mold is the classic 'non-detailed' headpiece used from 1999 to 2013.
Similar Minifigures
sw0011 (Classic Brown), sw0532 (Updated printing), sw1144 (Holiday Sweater), 20th Anniversary Chewbacca.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is a staple of early 2000s Star Wars collections, though most collectors prefer the higher-detailed modern prints or the original 1999 Brown version.
History
Launched in 1999 with the Star Wars line, the character stayed virtually unchanged in design for 14 years, with only this color swap in 2004 marking a significant change.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an alien, Chewbacca used a standard minifigure torso/leg size for years until LEGO experimented with taller legs in other themes; he remains a standard size in this era.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside a classic Han Solo (sw0045) and the 2006 Millennium Falcon. Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent Reddish Brown fading.
Modification Potential
Excellent base for classic-style Wookiee MOCs. The bandolier torso is easily swapped for purist custom Rebel soldiers.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential classic Star Wars minifigure. While not financially valuable, it is an essential piece of LEGO history representing the 'Golden Age' of licensed themes.