Chief Blue Bear
ww014 · Western
Indians · 1997. It debuted with the Indians sub-theme, representing a expansion of the Western theme which launched in 1996. This era was transitional, moving from classic 'yellow' themes into licensed IP territory shortly thereafter.
Figure ID
ww014
Theme
Western
Year Released
1997. It debuted with the Indians sub-theme, representing a expansion of the Western theme which launched in 1996. This era was transitional, moving from classic 'yellow' themes into licensed IP territory shortly thereafter.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While the Western theme was very popular, the Indians sub-theme had a relatively short production run (1997). This specific figure appeared in multiple sets but is highly prone to play-wear and missing its complex headdress.
Head
Standard yellow head with a unique face print featuring a large smile, black eyebrows, and two blue paint streaks on each cheek. It is topped with a large, multi-colored Native American headdress (War Bonnet) in white with red, blue, and black printing.
Torso
Tan torso with a highly detailed breastplate (bone/pipe) print in black and white, accented with blue and red geometric triangular patterns. Yellow arms and yellow hands are standard.
Legs
Tan legs with high-detail printing on the hips and front of the legs. The print features a red and white loincloth pattern with black fringe and geometric detailing consistent with the torso design.
Accessories
Usually paired with a spear, bow and arrow, or a brown tomahawk. The most critical 'accessory' is the large feather headdress (part 3068), which is present in the image and is the most valuable component.
Color Scheme
Primary color is Tan, accented with Yellow (skin), and a palette of Red, Blue, Black, and White within the tribal patterns and headdress.
Printing Details
Front-only printing on the torso and legs, which was standard for 1997. The headdress features wrap-around printing (360 degrees) on the plastic mold, which was a high-end production technique for that time.
Variants
None of the character itself, though he is often confused with Chief Sharp Fang (ww015) who has a different torso pattern and no face paint.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the prints on the headdress scratching off and the 'hip swivel' becoming loose. The tan plastic is susceptible to UV discoloration over time. The figure in the image shows some debris/dust but the prints appear largely intact.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $12 - $18 USD. New/Mint: $25+. The headdress alone accounts for about 40% of the figure's total value.
Price (New)
N/A (Included in sets ranging from $5 to $70 USD in 1997). He was a marquee figure for his sub-theme wave.
Compatible Sets
6766 Rapid River Village, 6763 Rapid River Village (re-release), 6748 Boulder Bumpas, 6709 Tribal Chief (Small Box/Polybag).
Character Background
Chief Blue Bear is the leader of the indigenous tribe in the LEGO Western world. Unlike the 'outlaw' characters in the main Western theme, he was presented as a neutral or noble protector of his lands.
Design Notes
The headdress mold is a classic LEGO piece that stayed in rotation for years. The torso printing is notably complex for the mid-90s, using a higher number of color layers than standard City figures of that era.
Similar Minifigures
Chief Sharp Fang (ww015), Indian Warrior (ww016), Indian Woman (ww017), and more modern versions like the Series 3 CMF Tribal Hunter.
Collectibility
High demand. 90s Western is a 'Golden Era' theme for adult collectors. This figure is essential for completing the Indian Village dioramas.
History
Launched in 1997 as part of LEGO's push for more diverse cultural representation within historical themes. The 'Indians' sub-theme was eventually retired and hasn't been revisited in this specific style, making them iconic 'vintage' pieces.
Interesting Facts
The same headdress mold was later used for various diverse characters, including the King of the Aztecs (Series 7 CMF) and even costumes in the LEGO Movie sets.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a natural/wilderness scene or a dedicated 90s Western cabinet. Pair with the LEGO Indian Teepees or the 6766 river baseplate.
Modification Potential
The tan legs and torso are popular for MOC (My Own Creations) builders creating historical or post-apocalyptic desert scenarios due to the earth-toned palette.
Overall Assessment
A standout 90s minifigure. It represents a peak for LEGO's print-detailing in the pre-movie era. If the headdress printing is clean, this is a centerpiece-worthy figure for any vintage collection.