How many pieces are in the Desert Island?

Desert Island contains 21 pieces.

When was the Desert Island released?

Desert Island was released in 1991.

🏛 Pirates I

Set #1481

Desert Island

Desert Island is a charmingly simple classic pirate vignette.

Before you buy

Who it's for: Beginner build Great for younger children and LEGO Pirates fans of all ages who enjoy simple, nostalgic builds.
Build: 21 pieces · about 0.3 hours Build time is an estimate.
Price: $2.99 list price · 14.2¢ per piece
Availability: Likely retired

★★★☆☆ 3.4 community rating from 54 ratings

Fans appreciate the nostalgic charm and simplicity of this classic LEGO Pirates set. While some find the piece count low for the current market price, the set is generally well-regarded for its historical significance and the inclusion of a classic pirate minifigure and shark.

$2.99

Best Price

$2.69

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📝 Our Take

AI-assisted editorial summary, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

Desert Island is a charmingly simple classic pirate vignette. Released in 1991, this small set perfectly captures the essence of a castaway scenario with a lone pirate, a treasure chest, and the ever-present threat of a lurking shark.

This set is perfect for LEGO Pirate enthusiasts and vintage collectors. The build is quick and easy, making it a nostalgic trip for older fans and a great introduction to the Pirates theme for younger builders. Its small size makes it easy to display.

Skip this if you are looking for a complex build or extensive play features. This set is more of a display piece or a nostalgic collectible. Consider the larger pirate ships or island fortresses for more involved building experiences.

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🧱 Building Experience

AI-assisted build estimate, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

🧩

Pieces

⏱

0.25h

Estimated Build Time

📊

Beginner

Difficulty

Build Highlights:

Easy to assemble, making it perfect for beginners.
Simple but effective use of parts to create a recognizable island scene.
Includes a fun shark element, adding to the play value.
Classic LEGO Pirates vibe with the minifigure and treasure.

📈 Investment Analysis

AI-assisted investment analysis, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

↑ Trending up since release

B+

Investment Grade

⏳ Retired

Desert Island, while small, holds significant investment potential due to its age, rarity, and the enduring popularity of the LEGO Pirates theme. Complete sets in good condition command a premium on the secondary market. The rising price trend indicates increasing demand from collectors. While the piece count is low, the set's historical significance and the inclusion of a classic pirate minifigure contribute to its desirability. However, condition is key - ensure the flag and other delicate parts are well-preserved.

Not Financial Advice: Content is for educational purposes only. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Full disclaimer

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

Compared to other small LEGO Pirates sets, Desert Island stands out for its simplicity and iconic imagery. While sets like 6245-1 Harbour Sentry offer more play features, Desert Island's focus on a single stranded pirate creates a unique narrative. Collectors may prefer this set for its compact size and nostalgic appeal, especially if they prioritize display over play.

1 Minifigure Included

Pirate - Red Stripes, Blue Legs, Red Bandana, 3626a

4 parts

The included Pirate minifigure with red stripes, blue legs, and a red bandana is a classic design from the early Pirates theme, contributing to the set's collectible value.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count: 21
Parts cataloged in this inventory: 18 unique parts, 20 pieces
Minifigures: 1

LEGO counts 21 pieces. This inventory comes from a separate parts catalog and lists 24, including the 4 parts inside the minifigures; the two do not always count the same elements, so their totals differ. Spare parts are counted in neither figure.

Missing a piece? Check this set piece by piece, with look-alike colors flagged and element IDs for replacements.

Brick 2 x 2 Corner

Part #: 2357 1× Light Gray

Plant, Leaves 4 x 3

Part #: 2423 2× Green

Animal, Bird, Par...

Part #: 2546pr0001 1× Red

Animal Body Part,...

Part #: 2547 1× Dark Gray

Animal Body Part,...

Part #: 2548 1× Dark Gray

Weapon Gun / Pist...

Part #: 2562 1× Brown

Brick 2 x 2

Part #: 3003 1× Light Gray

Brick 1 x 2

Part #: 3004 1× Light Gray

Plate 4 x 6

Part #: 3032 2× Yellow

Brick Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 3062b 1× Yellow

Weapon Lance

Part #: 3849 1× Black

Brick Special 1 x...

Part #: 4070 1× Light Gray

Flag 4 x 1 Wavy [...

Part #: 4495a 1× White

Equipment Saucepan

Part #: 4529 1× Black

Money / Coin with...

Part #: 57503 1× Chrome Gold

Money / Coin with...

Part #: 57504 1× Chrome Gold

Money / Coin with...

Part #: 57505 1× Chrome Gold

Money / Coin with...

Part #: 57506 1× Chrome Gold

The set includes a selection of useful basic bricks in light gray and yellow, along with some chrome gold coins for treasure. The shark parts add unique character to the build.

🛒 Where to Buy

eBay

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Walmart

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Target

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$2.99

💎 Notable Parts

Dark Gray Animal Body Part, Shark Body, without Bottom Tube (1x) $0.75

Dark Gray Animal Body Part, Shark Head (1x) $0.75

Chrome Gold Money / Coin with "40" Sans-serif Type (1x) $1.50

Red Animal, Bird, Parrot with Coloured Feathers Print (1x) $2.00

Est. BrickLink Part Value

$5.00

💡 MOC Potential

🚢 Small rowboat or raft for the pirate to escape on

🌳 Expand the island with more detailed foliage and terrain

🏰 Use elements to create a small pirate outpost or watchtower

📰 Pirates I News

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Inventory Statistics

Unique Parts

Official Piece Count

Cataloged Inventory Pieces

Minifigures

Inventory Version: 1

Missing a piece? Use the Missing Piece Checker.

A Classic Reborn!
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Desert Island