For most adult Lego® fans, more commonly called AFOLs, rare Lego pieces are not just valuable addition to a Lego MOC, but also makes a build truly unique and holds a whole new level of fascination. Rare Lego pieces are expensive, as they hold significant value and become highly sought after over time. Scarcity and rarity, as with any collectible item, can drive up the price, making expensive Lego pieces an appealing investment for those interested in building a collection.
In this article, we will look at expensive Lego pieces, their history, and what makes them so valuable to collectors and builders alike. Whether you're a seasoned Lego collector or just starting out, this guide will help you gain a better understanding of the fascinating world of rare Lego pieces.
Expensive Lego pieces can be difficult to obtain. For collectors and builders, knowing these expensive sets can assist in making decisions about purchasing and trading. For starters, knowing what the most expensive Lego pieces are can enhance the enjoyment and appreciation for Lego building and collecting.
Here are the top 10 most expensive Lego pieces:
1. 14k solid gold 2×4 Lego® Brick
The 14k solid gold 2×4 Lego® Brick weighs 25.65g and has the same dimensions and shape as the standard 2 by 4 Lego bricks. It was created between 1979 and 1981.
- Color: Solid gold
- Year released: 1980s
- Price: $15,000.00
The 14k solid gold 2×4 Lego Brick Lego brick was never sold to the general public. Instead, these were originally given to Lego employees that had fulfilled 25 years of employment at their main factory in Germany.
For this reason, a certain piece of this extremely expensive golden Lego brick is hard to find. Only a handful of 14k solid gold Lego® brick pieces have ever been produced, making them the rarest and also the most expensive Lego piece ever made. A certain piece was sold for $15,000 at an online auction held in 2020.
The extremely complex and expensive process of creating the solid gold Lego brick and the high cost of materials and production, make this Lego piece extremely rare and valuable, and it is highly sought after by Lego collectors and enthusiasts all over the world.
2. Mr. Gold Minifigure
The Mr. Gold Minifigure is a limited edition Lego® piece that was only available through a special promotion.
- Color: Chrome Gold
- Year released: 2013
- Price: $7,395.33
It was released in 2013 and appeared in Lego Collectable Minifigures 71001 Lego Minifigures, with only 5,000 produced worldwide. The minifigure has a chrome gold finish aside from the diamond on his staff and his white gloves.
Due to its rarity, the Mr. Gold Minifigure can be very expensive to purchase. With an estimated value of $7,395.33, some collectors are willing to pay thousands of dollars for one.
3. Windscreen 16 x 8 x 6 Curved with 3 Pin Holes
The Windscreen 16 x 8 x 6 Curved with 3 Pin Holes only appeared in Lego® Star Wars 75060 Slave I.
- Part Number: 16477
- Color: Trans clear
- Year released: 2015-2019
- Appears in: 1 set
- Average Price: $190.07
As with other expensive Lego pieces, this windscreen Lego piece is popular because it appears only once and is highly popular in Lego Star Wars sets. The inclusion of three pin holes also makes it an expensive set, because it allows it to be securely attached to other Lego pieces. This makes it a versatile piece that can be used in a variety of ways, whether you're building a car, a spaceship, or something entirely different.
4. Lando Calrissian Minifigure Cape Cloth
This minifigure cape cloth only appeared in one Lego® set and one Lego minifigure in Lego Star Wars 10123 Cloud City. It is a unique Lego piece that is specific to the Lando Calrissian minifigure, who is a popular character from the Star Wars franchise.
- Part Number: 522pb001
- Color: Yellow and Sand Blue
- Year released: 2003
- Appears in: 1 set
- Average Price: $177.82
The cape's cloth material allows for greater flexibility and movement than a plastic cape would, making it an excellent addition to any minifigure collection. This is why this Lego piece is also popular among Lego builders and enthusiasts who want to add a sense of realism and authenticity to their own Lego creations.
5. Dish 6 x 6 Inverted (Radar) - Hollow Studs with SW TIE Advanced Hatch Pattern
The Dish 6 x 6 Inverted (Radar) only appeared in one set, the Lego® Star Wars 10175 Vader's TIE Advanced, and is popular for its color. Fans of Star Wars often seek out this unique and expensive piece to add to their collections.
- Part Number: 44375apb03
- Color: Ligh Bluish Gray
- Year released: 2006
- Appears in: 1 set
- Average Price: $157.50
The TIE Advanced set was released at a time when the Lego Star Wars theme was experiencing a surge in popularity, thanks to the release of the critically acclaimed Star Wars: The Force Awakens film. This added to the popularity of the Lego piece as well. It was in high demand when it was first released, and continues to be popular with collectors and fans today.
6. Bionicle Mask Kraahkan Movie Edition
The Lego® Bionicle Mask Kanohi Kraahkan Movie Edition only appears in Lego Bionicle 10201 Takutanuva.
- Part Number: 48419
- Color: Black
- Year released: 2003
- Appears in: 1 set
- Average Price: $136.35
The Kanohi Kraahkan is a mask worn by the Bionicle antagonist Makuta. This mask was released in 2003 as part of the direct-to-video Bionicle film "Mask of Light: The Movie." The mask in Movie Edition is more metallic and reflective than the standard version, giving it a more distinct and eye-catching appearance.
The Bionicle franchise was discontinued in 2010, making many Bionicle sets and pieces, including the Kanohi Kraahkan Movie Edition, a rare and expensive Lego piece. As a result, among Bionicle enthusiasts and collectors, the mask has become a valuable item.
7. Dolphin with Abnormal Connection
The Dolphin piece's translucent blue color makes it a popular Lego® piece. But what makes this Dolphin piece expensive is its abnormal connection on its underside, which adds to its rarity. The hole was too narrow to accept the two studs that would normally fit for connection and is also too small to fit a Technic axle.
- Part Number: 6228c
- Color: Trans-light blue
- Year released: 1998-2000
- Appears in: 1 set
- Average Price: $116.76
The Dolphin with Abnormal Connection Lego piece only appeared in Lego Scala 3117 SCALA Flashy Pool.
8. Goat with Dark Tan Horns and Medium Nougat Spots Pattern
The Goat with Dark Tan Horns and Medium Nougat Spots Pattern was released in 2011 and has only appeared in Lego® Castle 7189 Mill Village Raid.
- Part Number: 95341pb01
- Color: White
- Year released: 2011
- Appears in: 1 set
- Price: $94.00
What makes this Lego piece expensive is its uniqueness. After being seen in 2011, Lego has not produced another Lego goat of the same appearance ever. Although Lego released similar-looking Duplo goats after, like the dark orange in 2013 and the white goat with spots in 2015, nothing beats the original goat with dark tan horns.
9. Monorail Motor Cover
The Monorail Motor Cover Lego® piece was first seen in 1988 as part of the Lego Monorail system, a popular theme in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
- Part Number: 2619
- Color: Red
- Year released: 1990
- Appears in: 1 set
- Average Price: $73.42
The Monorail Motor Cover is a small plastic piece used to protect the motor in the Lego Monorail train set. It is critical to the train's operation and aids in the protection of the motor.
The Monorail Motor Cover is expensive because it only appeared in one Lego set, Lego Town 6399 Airport Shuttle, which has already been retired. This means that the Monorail Motor Cover, along with other Monorail system components, is no longer in production.
10. Raised 32 x 32 Canyon with Brown Dirt and Gray Rocks Patter
The Raised 32 x 32 Canyon with Brown Dirt and Gray Rocks Patter only appeared in Lego® Castle 6079 Dark Forest Fortress.
- Part Number: 6024px4
- Color: Green
- Year released: 1996
- Appears in: 1 set
- Average Price: $76.81
Aside from appearing only in one set, what made this Lego piece expensive is its 3D look. The raised terrain adds depth and dimension to any build, which also makes it a favorite for Lego builders. The canyon is intricately sculpted with rock formations, giving the baseplate a realistic appearance that is ideal for creating Western, desert, or adventure-themed scenes.
You didn't know that these pieces are expensive
As you have seen, there are numerous rare Lego® parts that are highly sought after by collectors. In addition to minifigures, there are often certain parts that have a high price tag. This may be due to the fact that they are limited or were included in certain sets. In the following, we will introduce you to other Lego parts that you wouldn't expect to be so expensive.
Gear Hailfire Droid Wheel
- Part Number: 44556
- Year released: 2003
- Appears in: Lego® Star Wars 4481 Hailfire Droid
- Average Price: $55.88
The Lego® part 44556, Technic, Gear, Hailfire Droid Wheel, priced at $55.88, is a unique and sought-after piece. Released in 2003 as part of the Lego Star Wars 4481 Hailfire Droid set, its high cost can be attributed to several factors.
First, its exclusivity to the aforementioned Star Wars set makes it a rare find, especially for collectors and enthusiasts of the Lego Star Wars theme. In addition, the age of the set, from 2003, adds to its value due to its limited availability and the nostalgic value it holds for many Lego and Star Wars fans.
Exclusive Gali Mask
- Part Number: GALIMASK-1
- Year released: 2015
- Appears in: Lego® Inside Tour 2015 give away
- Average Price: $3.500
The Exclusive Gali Mask is a rare and valuable Lego® piece known for its exclusivity and unique origin. Released in 2015 as part of the Bionicle theme, this mask was not sold commercially, but was only given to attendees of the 2015 Lego Inside Tour, an exclusive and in-demand event that offers a three-day immersive experience into the world of Lego. The tour's limited availability, high cost and unique offerings, including special gifts like the Gali Mask, contribute to the item's high value.
Right Shop Door in Light Bluish Gray
- Part Number: 4258477
- Year released: 2007
- Appears in: 6 sets
- Average Price: $54
Lego® part 4258477, known as the "Right Shop Door 4X5" in Light Bluish Gray, commands a surprisingly high price of over $50 , a fact that may puzzle those not familiar with the intricacies of Lego collecting.
This particular door, which opens to the right and appears rather ordinary at first glance, derives its value from its rarity and the nostalgia associated with the sets it was included in. Appearing in only six sets, it's a rare piece, but its inclusion in the 10190 Market Street set, the second modular set released by Lego in 2007, significantly increases its collectible status. Modular sets, especially early ones like Market Street, are highly sought after by Lego enthusiasts and often bring high prices on the secondary market.
Of course, not only Lego parts can have a high value, but also Lego minifigures. We have looked at the most expensive Lego Star Clone Troopers in separate articles.
Expensive Lego® Pieces: FAQ
If you want to know more about expensive Lego® pieces, then here are some frequently asked questions about these valuable pieces.
Are rare Lego® pieces more expensive than regular Lego pieces?
Yes, rare Lego® pieces are frequently worth more than regular Lego pieces. Depending on their rarity and condition, some rare Lego pieces can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Are expensive Lego® pieces worth investing in?
Yes, there are many expensive Lego® pieces that are worth investing in, especially rare or limited edition pieces that are no longer produced. The value of rare Lego pieces can also be highly subjective and can change over time. But it’s important to note that not all rare Lego pieces are valuable.
Check these Lego investment tips to have a view of everything you need to know about investing in Lego.
Where can I buy the expensive Lego® pieces?
There are several places where you can buy expensive Lego® pieces:
- Online marketplaces. Popular online marketplaces include eBay and BrickLink. You can look for specific items, check for availability, and compare prices from different sellers.
- Lego conventions. At these events, you'll see Lego enthusiasts, collectors, and vendors selling rare pieces.
- Specialized Lego dealers. These stores may have a wider selection of rare Lego pieces than general retailers, but they can also be more expensive.
- Second-hand stores. You may find rare Lego pieces in second-hand stores like Goodwill or thrift stores, though this may require some hunting.
For easy reference, here's a complete shop comparison on where to buy and replace Lego parts. Just make sure you're purchasing from reputable sources to ensure the piece's authenticity and condition.
Conclusion
Expensive Lego® pieces, despite its price, hold a special place in the hearts of Lego fans and collectors worldwide. Whether it's a rare minifigure, or a one-of-a-kind element, these items can are extremely valuable. With their rarity and historical significance to the Lego community, expensive Lego pieces are a unique and valuable addition to any Lego collection. While the value of expensive Lego pieces can still fluctuate over time, they continue to be a fascinating and captivating aspect of the Lego hobby.
If you want to learn more tips like this, or just about Lego in general, then check out this Lego Glossary where you can find the meaning of some of the important Lego terms. You want to buy Lego sets at a bargain price? In the Brickfact price comparison you can choose from a variety of providers and save money. The Brickfact app informs you via push notification as soon as a new Lego deal is available. The Brickfact app is free and available for both iOS and Android.
