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Two versions of the same historic LEGO rocket — what’s really different?
The LEGO NASA Apollo Saturn V is one of the most beloved LEGO Ideas sets ever released: a 1:110 scale, 1-meter-tall brick replica of the iconic rocket that sent humans to the Moon. Originally released as 21309 in 2017, it was later re-released in 2020 as 92176 due to high demand after retirement.
Below, we break down what’s changed – and what hasn’t.
📌 Set Overview
| Feature | 21309 (Original) | 92176 (Re-Release) |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2017 | 2020 |
| Pieces | 1,969 | 1,969 |
| Scale | ~1:110 | ~1:110 |
| Includes | Rocket, lunar lander, command/service modules, astronaut microfigures | Same contents |
| Production Status | Retired | Retired (as of 2022) |
| Collector Value | Higher due to original run | Lower than original sealed 21309 |
Both sets are essentially the same model with the same piece count and design, but they differ in set number and one tiny part swap.
🚀 What’s Identical Between Them
🔹 Build & Display
- Three removable rocket stages reflecting the real Saturn V launch sequence.
- Mini Lunar Lander, Command Module, and astronaut microfigures included.
- Identical height, proportions, and visual design.
- Same classic black-and-white color scheme with no stickers.
You get the same impressive rocket and build experience no matter which version you pick.
🧱 What’s Different
The difference is extremely minor — so subtle that most builders won’t notice at first glance.
🔸 Part Swap in the Lunar Lander
The original 21309 set had a standard 2×4 dark bluish-gray plate used on part of the lunar lander assembly.
In the 92176 re-release, LEGO replaced that piece with a Technic-holed 2×4 plate.
This change provides slightly better structural support for the lander assembly, especially where small parts connect.
This is the only structural difference confirmed by part inventories — everything else about the build is unchanged.
🔸 Packaging & Set Number
- 21309 uses the original LEGO Ideas set number.
- 92176 carries a new SKU even though it’s essentially the same model.
LEGO renumbers re-released sets to differentiate production runs once the original set number is retired.
🛠️ Why LEGO Re-Released It
After 21309 was retired in 2019, demand for the set remained high. LEGO brought it back in 2020 as 92176 so more fans could enjoy the build and display piece without chasing expensive sealed originals.
The re-released set maintained the classic design, preserved the 1,969-piece symbolic count, and only made a small tweak to improve part stability in the Lunar Lander sub-assembly.
💡 Collectability & Market Notes
- Collector Appeal: The original 21309 is often more coveted on the aftermarket because it was the first release.
- Price Differences: Sealed 21309 sets typically command higher prices than sealed 92176 sets among collectors.
- Build Experience: Both deliver the same experience; only packaging and that one tiny piece difference separates them for most builders.
📌 Final Verdict
In practice, 21309 and 92176 are functionally the same set.
If you’re building it for display or educational value, either will give you the epic towering rocket and Saturn V experience you’re after. The only real differences are:
✅ New set number for the re-release.
✅ A small piece swap in the lunar lander for added stability.
✅ Collector value tends to be higher for the original.
So whether you find a sealed 21309 at a premium price or a more accessible 92176, you’re essentially building the same monumental tribute to NASA’s Apollo program.