1999 LEGO Sets

1999 saw the release of 333 sets with 42 of them available for promotions and special releases.While many sets of the later 90s are not necessarily considered collection worthy, a number of sets in 1999 have proved to be solid investments.

Based on the 333 sets released for that year, the retail value was $5,947.26 with a current value of $28,596.87 for the combined new/factory sealed sets. As of present, the best performing theme for 1999 is currently Aquazone which has seen an average annual growth of upwards of 9% to date.

In 1999, LEGO entered a new era with the launch of its first-ever licensed theme: LEGO Star Wars, in collaboration with Lucasfilm. Released alongside Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, this partnership introduced LEGO sets based on iconic characters, vehicles, and locations from the Star Wars universe. The success of LEGO Star Wars marked the beginning of LEGO’s expansion into licensed properties, a trend that would define the company’s future.

This year also saw the introduction of several original LEGO themes. LEGO Rock Raiders brought an underground mining adventure, featuring rugged vehicles, drilling machines, and crystal-powered technology. Meanwhile, LEGO Slizers (Throwbots) debuted as an early precursor to BIONICLE, introducing disc-throwing robotic creatures with distinct elemental themes. LEGO also expanded its Adventurers line with the Jungle subtheme, following Johnny Thunder on new quests deep into ancient temples and lost civilizations.

Additionally, LEGO Education was officially introduced, evolving from the LEGO Dacta division. This move reinforced LEGO’s commitment to hands-on learning, incorporating LEGO bricks into STEM-based curricula and classroom environments.

However, 1999 also saw the discontinuation of several themes, including Cyberslam, TechPlay, UFO, Insectoids, Znap, and Model Team, reflecting LEGO’s shift towards newer play concepts and digital integration.

With the historic launch of LEGO Star Wars, the introduction of new adventure and sci-fi themes, and the formal establishment of LEGO Education, 1999 was a transformational year, setting the stage for LEGO’s evolution into the 21st century.