When was the Nutcracker released?

Nutcracker was released in 2011.

🏛 Monthly Mini Model Build

Set #MMMB045

Nutcracker

The Nutcracker is a charming little holiday build.

Before you buy

Who it's for: Beginner build Perfect for LEGO beginners or those looking for a quick, festive build.
Build: 40 pieces · about 0.5 hours Build time is an estimate.
Availability: Likely retired

★★★☆☆ 3.8 AI-generated review score, not a customer rating

A cute and simple build that captures the holiday spirit, though some may find it too basic for the piece count. It's a charming display piece, especially for seasonal collections, but not a particularly challenging or complex build.

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📝 Our Take

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

The Nutcracker is a charming little holiday build. This monthly mini-model captures the essence of the classic Christmas character in a compact and delightful way, making it a perfect seasonal display piece.

This set is perfect for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages, especially those who enjoy collecting seasonal models. Its small size and simple construction make it a quick and satisfying build, ideal for adding a touch of holiday cheer to any LEGO collection.

Skip this if you prefer larger, more complex builds with intricate details. Consider sets like the Winter Village Toy Shop (10249-1) or the Gingerbread House (10267-1) for a more elaborate holiday building experience.

✨ New

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BlockTalk

Hi! I'm BlockTalk, your LEGO expert. Ask me anything about the Nutcracker - building tips, investment potential, comparisons, or anything else!

Try asking:

How does this mini-model compare to other LEGO holiday sets in terms of complexity and display value? What are some creative ways to incorporate this Nutcracker into a larger LEGO winter village display? How has the value of other LEGO monthly mini-models changed over time, and what does that suggest for this set? What are the key factors to consider when assessing the long-term investment potential of a small promotional set like this?

🧱 Building Experience

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

🧩

Pieces

⏱

0.5h

Estimated Build Time

📊

Beginner

Difficulty

Build Highlights:

Simple and straightforward construction.
Uses basic building techniques suitable for all ages.
The clever use of parts to create the Nutcracker's iconic features.
A fun and engaging build for the holiday season.

📈 Investment Analysis

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

Not enough price history for a trend

B-

Investment Grade

⏳ Retired

The Nutcracker monthly mini-model, while small, benefits from its seasonal appeal and limited availability as a promotional set. Its low piece count makes it an accessible entry point for collectors, and its charm could lead to steady appreciation over time. However, its value is heavily dependent on its condition and the completeness of the original packaging. As a small set, it's unlikely to yield massive returns, but it could be a worthwhile addition to a broader LEGO investment portfolio.

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

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

The Nutcracker is a small, seasonal set that offers a quick and easy building experience. Compared to larger holiday-themed sets like the Winter Village series, it's less complex and less expensive, making it a great option for casual LEGO fans or those with limited space. While it may not have the same level of detail or playability as larger sets, its charm and affordability make it a unique addition to any LEGO collection.

📦 Parts Inventory

Piece count: 40
Parts cataloged in this inventory: 17 unique parts, 40 pieces

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

Tile Special 1 x ...

Part #: 12825 1× White

Plate Special 1 x...

Part #: 15573 3× Red

Plate 2 x 2

Part #: 3022 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Part #: 3024 2× Yellow

Bar 4L (Lightsabe...

Part #: 30374 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Brick Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 3062b 2× Dark Bluish Gray

Tile 1 x 2 with G...

Part #: 3069b 1× Yellow

Brick Special 1 x...

Part #: 4070 2× Yellow

Brick Special 1 x...

Part #: 4070 2× Red

Dish 3 x 3 Invert...

Part #: 43898 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Brick Special 1 x...

Part #: 4733 1× White

Brick Special 1 x...

Part #: 4733 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Brick Sloped 30° ...

Part #: 54200 2× Dark Bluish Gray

Brick Sloped 30° ...

Part #: 54200 4× Light Bluish Gray

Plate Round 4 x 4...

Part #: 60474 1× Light Bluish Gray

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 4× White

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 2× Dark Bluish Gray

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 1× Yellow

Equipment Handcuffs

Part #: 61482 1× Light Bluish Gray

Cone 3 x 3 x 2

Part #: 6233 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Tile 1 x 3

Part #: 63864 1× Red

This set includes a selection of small plates, slopes, and specialty bricks in red, white, yellow, and dark bluish gray, offering a modest but useful parts pack for small-scale MOCs and detailing.

🛒 Where to Buy

💎 Notable Parts

Red Plate Special 1 x 2 with 1 Stud with Groove and Inside Stud Holder (Jumper) (3x) $0.45

Yellow Brick Special 1 x 1 with Headlight (2x) $0.30

Dark Bluish Gray Bar 4L (Lightsaber Blade / Wand) (1x) $0.20

Est. BrickLink Part Value

$0.95

💡 MOC Potential

🧙 Create other characters from the Nutcracker ballet, like the Sugar Plum Fairy or the Mouse King.

🌳 Expand the base into a small winter scene with a Christmas tree and snowy landscape.

🚗 Rebuild the parts into a miniature toy soldier or a festive holiday vehicle.

Community Insights

Real opinions from Reddit and YouTube

What Reddit Says

No Reddit discussions found for this set.

What YouTubers Say

1 video found

BlockTalk AI

BRICK VICE's speed build of the LEGO Nutcracker 40640 highlights the set's solid design and moving features. The reviewer appreciates the option to build either a male or female version, noting the color scheme and articulation as positives.