Darth Vader (Imperial Inspection)
sw0157 · Star Wars
Episode VI: Return of the Jedi / Imperial Inspection · 2006. Released as part of the 7264 Imperial Inspection set, which was a special reissue/remake era set during the mid-2000s LEGO Star Wars expansion.
Figure ID
sw0157
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2006. Released as part of the 7264 Imperial Inspection set, which was a special reissue/remake era set during the mid-2000s LEGO Star Wars expansion.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While Darth Vader is a common character, this specific 2006 variant features a very specific torso print (0157) with detailed chest box and belt indicators that were only available in two sets during a limited production window.
Head
Standard Vader light flesh/grey scarred head (under helmet). The helmet is the original classic 1-piece mold (non-hinged) that was used from 1999 until 2015.
Torso
Black torso with Imperial Inspection pattern. Features intricate printing of the life support system chest box with grey, blue, and red buttons, and a detailed belt. Specifically, it includes the silver 'Imperial Cog' medal/symbol visible on the chest box which distinguishes this specific variant.
Legs
Plain black unprinted legs with black hip piece.
Accessories
Included a black fabric cape (stiff material) and originally came with a red lightsaber (chrome silver hilt). The image shows the cape but the lightsaber is missing.
Color Scheme
Dominant black with light bluish-grey accents on the helmet grill and chest plate. Minor red and blue dots on the controls.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing for the 2006 era. Front torso printing only; no back torso or leg printing was standard for this timeframe. Alignment is typically centered and crisp.
Variants
This is the sw0157 variant. It differs from the original 1999 version (sw0004) by having a more detailed torso and a flesh-colored head instead of a yellow one. It differs from modern Vaders (sw1224+) by using the 1-piece helmet and lacking arm/leg printing.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include fraying on the edges of the cloth cape, chrome loss on the lightsaber hilt if handled, and neck cracks on the black torso from the head being pressed down too hard.
Estimated Value
Used (Complete): $25 - $40 USD; New (taken from sealed set): $50 - $70 USD. The torso alone accounts for about $15 of the value due to its specific iteration.
Price (New)
Originally available in set 7264 which retailed for $50.00 USD in 2006. As a CMF-style calculation, the 'value' of the figure at launch was roughly $4.00.
Compatible Sets
7264 Imperial Inspection (2006) and 10143 Death Star II (UCS).
Character Background
Lord Vader as seen during the opening scenes of Return of the Jedi, arriving on the second Death Star to oversee progress for the Emperor's arrival.
Design Notes
This represents the 'middle era' of Vader design—moving away from the simplistic 1990s prints but before the move to the modern 2-piece helmet system. It is a favorite for fans of the classic 'boxy' LEGO aesthetic.
Similar Minifigures
sw0004 (Classic Vader), sw0209 (Vader with Death Star torso), sw1155 (Modern Vader with arm printing).
Collectibility
Highly collectible for 'Theme Completionists' because of the unique chest box printing and its association with the iconic 2006 Imperial Inspection set.
History
Vader was one of the first licensed minifigures in 1999. This 2006 version was a significant upgrade in printing technology but maintained the classic silhouette.
Interesting Facts
The chest box on this figure is one of the first times LEGO attempted movie-accurate button layouts for Vader's suit rather than generic tech patterns.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for a Death Star hangar bay MOC or displayed in a UV-protected case alongside Imperial Stormtroopers from the same era to maintain consistent aesthetics.
Modification Potential
Commonly used for 'purist customs' where fans swap the head for the newer 'burned Anakin' face or add modern capes while keeping the classic 1-piece helmet.
Overall Assessment
An iconic 'mid-cycle' Vader. While not as valuable as the Chrome Vader or the modern arm-printed versions, it is a high-quality, nostalgic piece that represents the peak of 'Classic' Star Wars LEGO design. Rating: 8/10.