Stormtrooper (Dual Molded Helmet, Gray Vents, Grimacing Face)
sw0997 · Star Wars
Original Trilogy · 2019 (Released as part of the 20th Anniversary wave)
Figure ID
sw0997
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2019 (Released as part of the 20th Anniversary wave)
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it appeared in several sets, the dual-molded helmet style is the current standard, replacing the older single-mold versions.
Head
Light Nougat head with a 'Grimacing' expression (angry clone face), featuring black eyebrows and white pupils. It is capped with the 'new' 2019 style dual-molded helmet which features fixed black and gray detailing.
Torso
White torso with Stormtrooper armor pattern (front and back). Includes a detailed utility belt and pectorals. Arms are plain white with black hands representing gloves.
Legs
White legs with black hip piece. Printing includes knee plates and thermal detonator details on the rear/belt line. No side leg printing.
Accessories
None shown in image, but typically paired with a black medium blaster (E-11 rifle).
Color Scheme
Classic Imperial White and Black. The unique element is the dual-molded helmet which uses white and black plastic fused together, with gray printed vents.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. Notable for the 'non-turning' helmet design where the black visor and gray mouth vents are part of the mold or precisely printed to align with the 3D sculpt.
Variants
Variants include sw1102 (female face), sw1233 (same helmet but different torso/leg printing for newer sets), and the older sw0585 (Rebels style).
Condition Notes
Prone to 'yellowing' if exposed to UV light due to white plastic. The dual-molded helmet is very durable, but the neck post of the torso can develop stress cracks over time.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $6.00 USD; New: $7.00 - $9.00 USD. Prices vary based on the specific set it originated from.
Price (New)
Commonly found in sets ranging from $14.99 (Battle Packs) to $150+ (larger playsets).
Compatible Sets
75229 Death Star Escape, 75235 X-Wing Starfighter Trench Run, 75262 Imperial Dropship – 20th Anniversary Edition, 75300 Imperial TIE Fighter.
Character Background
The standard infantry of the Galactic Empire. This specific design reflects the look seen in 'A New Hope' and 'The Empire Strikes Back'.
Design Notes
The 2019 redesign (this figure) was controversial among fans because the helmet is significantly larger than previous versions and cannot rotate easily when used with certain armor pieces.
Similar Minifigures
sw0585 (Rebels Stormtrooper), sw1053 (Snowtrooper), sw0188 (Classic 2008 Stormtrooper).
Collectibility
High for army builders; low for rarity-focused investors. It is the 'standard' trooper for the modern era of LEGO Star Wars.
History
Launched in 2019 to modernize the Star Wars line for its 20th anniversary. It replaced the 'dot-eye' and 'Rebels' designs that dominated the mid-2010s.
Interesting Facts
The helmet is actually two separate colors of plastic molded together (Dual-molding), not just a white helmet painted black.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in large ranks ('Army Building') or on a gray baseplate to simulate a Star Destroyer hallway.
Modification Potential
Excellent for custom Pauldrons or backpacks to create specialized ranks like Sergeants or Sandtroopers.
Overall Assessment
A solid, highly detailed representation of the iconic soldier. While the helmet scale is debated by purists, the printing crispness is arguably the best in LEGO history for this character.