LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355)

Theme: Ideas
Pieces: 879
Minifigures: 3
Retail Price: $79.99
Released: 2025
Retirement Date: 2026-12-31
Status: Available
Market Value: $70.39

About This Set

With 879 pieces, the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) is a mid-range build with plenty to enjoy. It launched in 2025 under the Ideas banner at $79.99. The set includes 3 minifigures, adding play and display value.

You're looking at $0.091 per piece, which holds up well against other Ideas sets.

For the price point, the The Evolution of STEM delivers a clean Ideas build that's easy to recommend.

Key Features

879 pieces — Solid build size with a good level of detail
3 minifigures — Adds play value and aftermarket appeal
$0.091 per piece — Strong price-per-piece for this theme
From 2025 — Modern LEGO design and packaging quality

Investment Analysis

The LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) is set to retire this year, which puts it squarely in the sweet spot for investors. Retail availability is winding down, and aftermarket demand typically picks up from here.

Investment-wise, we'd call this one modest but worth tracking.

A few things worth noting:

The $0.091 price-per-piece is well below average — good sign for value retention

Bottom line: Ideas sets that retire with this profile usually see meaningful appreciation. If you spot the The Evolution of STEM on sale, don't overthink it.

Theme Background

As a 2025 addition to Ideas, the The Evolution of STEM slots into the more affordable side of Ideas. Ideas is part of LEGO's broader product lineup, and at $79.99 this set is priced accordingly. At $0.091 per piece, it punches above its weight on value.

The Ideas theme has a broad appeal that crosses over between builders, collectors, and investors. The The Evolution of STEM fits comfortably into that ecosystem at its price point.

Why This Set Is Special

Part-out value 2.9x retail. The individual parts are worth $231.39 on BrickLink — 2.9x the $79.99 retail price. Exceptional part-out value.

18+ adult collector set — Designed for adult builders with more complex techniques and display-quality results.

Retirement Outlook

RETIREMENT OUTLOOK

The Evolution of STEM (SET NUMBER: 21355) is set to retire on December 31, 2026. With its anticipated retirement, investors should consider the timing and potential for post-retirement appreciation. Currently priced at a retail value of $79.99, this set has shown a range of current market prices across various platforms, with Amazon listing it at $95.58, Walmart at $76.95, BrickLink at $65.33, and eBay at $72.95.

Given its price per piece at $0.091, which is slightly below the theme average of $0.092, there is potential for appreciation after retirement. Historically, LEGO sets often see a significant increase in value once they are no longer available at retail. Sets in the Ideas theme, especially those featuring unique builds and multiple minifigures, tend to perform well in the secondary market.

Investors should consider acquiring The Evolution of STEM before it retires, particularly if they can find it at or below its retail price. Keeping an eye on stock levels at retail outlets and online platforms will provide guidance on the ideal buying window. As retirement approaches, demand may increase, leading to higher resale values.

Frequently Asked Questions

[{"q": "How many pieces are in the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355)?", "a": "The LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) contains 879 pieces, making it a mid-range set. This set offers a manageable build that can be completed in a sitting or two, making it a good choice for builders of all experience levels."}, {"q": "What minifigures come with the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355)?", "a": "The LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) includes 3 minifigures. Minifigures are a key value driver for LEGO sets \u2014 exclusive or rare minifigures can appreciate significantly in value on their own, sometimes commanding high prices on the secondary market."}, {"q": "How much does the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) cost?", "a": "The retail price (MSRP) for the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) is $79.99 in the United States. Regional pricing is \u00a369.99 in the UK, CA$99.99 in Canada, \u20ac79.99 in Europe. This works out to $0.09 per piece. While you get fewer pieces per dollar than some other Ideas sets, the build quality and specialized elements justify the premium."}, {"q": "Is the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) a good investment?", "a": "The LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) shows moderate investment potential based on several factors. Ideas sets have historically been among the best-performing themes for post-retirement appreciation. As with any LEGO investment, buying at or below retail price maximizes potential returns. Use the BrickBucks price tracker to find the best entry point."}, {"q": "What age is the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) suitable for?", "a": "The LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) is recommended for ages 18+. This is an 18+ set designed for adult builders, typically featuring more complex building techniques, detailed designs, and display-quality results."}, {"q": "How big is the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355)?", "a": "The LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) measures approximately 26.20cm \u00d7 38.20cm \u00d7 7.10cm (W\u00d7H\u00d7D). It makes for a great display piece that won't take up too much shelf space."}, {"q": "When will the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) retire?", "a": "The LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) is projected to retire around December 2026. Once a LEGO set retires, it is no longer produced or sold at retail. This typically causes prices to rise on the secondary market as supply decreases while collector demand remains. Check the retirement countdown on this page for the latest status."}, {"q": "Where can I buy the LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355)?", "a": "The LEGO The Evolution of STEM (21355) is available from major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, Target, and LEGO.com. Use the BrickBucks deal tracker to find current discounts and the best price available right now."}]