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The world of LEGO is full of surprises, and one of the most intriguing is the company’s collaborations with other major brands. In 2021, LEGO and Adidas joined forces to bring a piece of sneaker culture to the brick-built universe, and the result was the LEGO 40486 Mini Adidas Originals Superstar. More than just a simple replica, this set is a fascinating little piece of LEGO history and a highly sought-after collectible.
What is the LEGO 40486?
The LEGO 40486 Mini Adidas Originals Superstar is a small-scale, brick-built replica of the iconic Adidas Superstar sneaker. It was released in 2021 as a promotional “Gift with Purchase” (GWP) to coincide with the larger, more detailed LEGO 10282 Adidas Originals Superstar set. GWPs are sets that are not sold individually but are instead given away for free with qualifying purchases from LEGO.com or official LEGO Stores.
Key Details of the Set
- Set Number: 40486
- Theme: Icons / Promotional
- Year Released: 2021
- Piece Count: 92
- Minifigures: 1 (a unique minifigure in a shoebox costume)
- Age Range: 18+
The Build and Design
Despite its small size (just 92 pieces), the Mini Adidas Originals Superstar is remarkably well-designed. It captures the essential features of the real sneaker, including the iconic shell toe, the serrated three stripes on the side, and the overall shape. The build is straightforward and quick, but it’s a testament to the designers’ ability to create a recognizable and aesthetically pleasing model with a limited number of bricks. The final model is perfect for display, either on its own or as a companion to the larger 10282 set.
The Star of the Show: The Minifigure
One of the most appealing aspects of this set is the unique minifigure it includes. The minifigure is dressed in an Adidas shoebox costume, complete with boombox and microphone accessories. This is a brilliant and fun addition that elevates the set beyond just a simple model. The minifigure is a must-have for any collector, especially those who are fans of either LEGO or Adidas.
Availability and Rarity
As a GWP, the LEGO 40486 was only available for a limited time, specifically from July 1st to July 25th, 2021. To get one, you had to make a qualifying purchase of a certain amount (e.g., $85 USD or £95 GBP) from a LEGO Brand Store or the official LEGO online shop. Because it was not for sale on its own and had a strict availability window, the set quickly became a rare and sought-after collectible.
Value in the Secondary Market
Due to its limited release, the value of the LEGO 40486 Mini Adidas Originals Superstar has increased since its retirement. While its original retail value was estimated to be around $12.99 USD, it now commands a higher price on the secondary market. Prices for a new, sealed set can vary, but generally range from around $20 to over $60, making it a great find for collectors.
In conclusion, the LEGO 40486 Mini Adidas Originals Superstar is a fantastic little set that perfectly blends the worlds of sneakers and LEGO. Its clever design, unique minifigure, and limited availability make it a standout collectible that fans of both brands continue to seek out.