#fig-012113
Cole in his EVO gear with head wraps is a fantastic addition to any Ninjago collection, particularly for fans of the Core and EVO subthemes that bridged classic ninja aesthetics with modern action features. What makes this specific version stand out is the striking asymmetrical arm printing—featuring one orange arm and one black arm—alongside the detailed black wrap with an orange band pattern. The dual-sided expression head gives collectors display versatility, moving seamlessly from a confident smile to battle-ready anger.
When hunting for this figure, condition is relatively straightforward since it appeared in several retail sets, but you will want to keep a close eye on the printed torso and legs. The vibrant orange decorations against the dark tan and black elements can be prone to play wear or minor scuffs if not stored carefully. As with any minifigure featuring specialized neckwear like the Pearl Titanium shoulder guard, check the clips to ensure they aren't stressed or cracked from frequent removal.
This variant of Cole saw a healthy distribution across five different releases between 2022 and 2023, making it reasonably accessible on the secondary market. It was featured prominently in both large-scale retail heavyweights like the Ninja Dojo Temple and Ninja Ultra Combo Mech, as well as mid-range sets such as Cole's Earth Dragon EVO. Because it wasn't locked behind a single exclusive or ultra-expensive flagship set, raw availability for loose figures remains quite steady.
Despite appearing in multiple sets, all of the containing products are now retired, meaning the primary retail pipeline has officially dried up. As time goes on, complete copies of this minifigure bundled with all five original parts—including the specific shoulder guard and unique asymmetrical arms—will become scarcer as parts get mixed into general collections or lost by younger builders.
From an investment perspective, this Cole sits comfortably in the solid middle tier. While it lacks the extreme scarcity of convention exclusives or rare variants tied to high-end collector sets, Ninjago remains a powerhouse theme with a dedicated fanbase that consistently drives demand for core ninja characters. The retirement of major sets like the Dojo Temple and Ultra Combo Mech means supply is essentially fixed, leaving market data to slowly absorb the remaining loose inventory.
Potential investors should be mindful that because this figure was produced in relatively high quantities to satisfy several 2022 and 2023 sets, explosive short-term appreciation is unlikely. The downside risk includes potential stagnation if buyer interest shifts exclusively to newer television season variants. However, steady long-term demand from completionist Ninjago collectors looking to fill out their EVO-era rosters provides a reliable floor for its value.
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Information about LEGO® set values, appreciation rates, ROI calculations, and investment potential is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. This content does not constitute financial, investment, or tax advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. LEGO® sets are collectibles, not securities or traditional investments. Market values can fluctuate significantly. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Read full disclaimer
Breakdown of all parts included with this minifigure
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This minifigure appears in 5 sets