Ben (Obi-Wan) Kenobi (Old) - Yellow Skin
sw0023 · Star Wars
Episode IV: A New Hope · 1999 (First release in set 7110 Landspeeder)
Figure ID
sw0023
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
1999 (First release in set 7110 Landspeeder)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While released in multiple early sets, its age and status as an 'original 1999 figure' make high-quality examples increasingly scarce.
Head
Yellow head with classic 'dot' eyes, thin grey eyebrows, a grey beard with a white mustache highlight, and grey side-parted hair (hair piece 3901).
Torso
Tan Jedi robes with simple black line-drawing of folds and lapels, a brown V-neck undershirt, and a brown utility belt on both front and back.
Legs
Tan legs with a small brown vertical line representing the continuation of the robe's opening at the hip.
Accessories
Originally came with a Chrome Blue Lightsaber hilt (4589) and a 4L blue lightsaber blade. The figure in the image is missing these accessories.
Color Scheme
Primary Tan with Brown and Yellow accents; includes Light Grey hair.
Printing Details
Classic simple pad printing on the torso (front and back) and head. Low detail by modern standards but highly nostalgic; alignment is usually centered.
Variants
This is the yellow-skin version. In 2004, the figure was updated to flesh-tones (sw0120). There is also a light-bluish grey hair variant and the iconic 'Cape' version.
Condition Notes
The chrome on the original lightsaber hilt often flakes. The tan plastic is susceptible to yellowing from UV light. Check for 'arm cracks' at the elbows and heels.
Estimated Value
Used: $15–$25; Incomplete: $10–$12; New/Sealed in set: Significant premium (Set 7110 is ~$70+).
Price (New)
Set 7110 (Landspeeder) originally retailed for $6.00 USD in 1999.
Compatible Sets
7110 Landspeeder (1999), 7194 Ultimate Collector Series Yoda (alternate hair scale), and the 4501 Mos Eisley Cantina (2004 variant/transition).
Character Background
Obi-Wan 'Ben' Kenobi, the Jedi Master who lived in exile on Tatooine to watch over Luke Skywalker before training him in the ways of the Force.
Design Notes
One of the very first Star Wars minifigures ever produced. It uses the generic 'hair male' mold which was common in Lego City at the time.
Similar Minifigures
Luke Skywalker (sw0021), Han Solo (sw0014), and Princess Leia (sw0010) — all from the original 1999 wave.
Collectibility
High. As a 'First Wave' 1999 figure, it is a cornerstone for any serious Star Wars collector or Lego historian.
History
Debuted at the New York Toy Fair in 1999. This specific design lasted until Legos moved away from yellow skin tones for licensed themes in 2004.
Interesting Facts
The lightsaber hilt in the 1999 sets was chrome-plated, a finish LEGO mostly discontinued for hilts due to peeling issues.
Display Suggestions
Display in a UV-protected case alongside the original 1999 Landspeeder or a 20th Anniversary commemorative stand.
Modification Potential
Commonly used for 'purist' classic MOCs of other older Jedi; parts are very interchangeable with early Castle and Adventure themes.
Overall Assessment
An iconic piece of LEGO history. While simple in design, its significance as part of the original Star Wars launch makes it an essential 'buy' for collectors.
Notes
Original