In 1997 LEGO released 11 Western sets across 2 subthemes. The largest Western set from 1997 was
6766 Rapid River Village with a piece count of 353 and a retail price of $59.99. The current estimated value of all these Western sets from this year is about $1,963.74 which represents a 1292.7% growth.
The LEGO Western theme, also known as Wild West, ran from 1996 to 1997 with additional sets released in 2002. The theme included two subthemes, Cowboy and Indians, and was set in the Old West in the second half of the 19th century. Sets featured cowboys, outlaws, cavalry soldiers and native Americans/Indians.
1997 LEGO Sets
In 1997, the LEGO Group faced significant challenges as it grappled with a changing toy market and internal organizational shifts. While the company introduced its first-ever licensed theme, "Star Wars," laying the groundwork for one of its most successful and enduring lines, it also experienced a dip in sales for the first time since its inception. The LEGO Group recognized the need to innovate and diversify its product offerings beyond traditional brick sets, leading to endeavors in new areas like software and video games, with the launch of LEGO Island, its first PC game. This year marked a period of introspection and transformation for the iconic toy company.