Mego Catwoman Action Figure

Around a decade ago, I had the remarkable chance to meet an avid MEGO collector by the name of Jim. This collector had been amassing Mego toys since the early 1970s, and what a collection he had! Not only did he preserve his original toys, but he also managed to accumulate a staggering number of additions over the years. Some of these treasures were gently pre-loved, while others were still in pristine condition, their original boxes safeguarding their charm.

One standout from his collection was Catwoman, the only original toy that remained untouched in its childhood packaging. Witnessing that sealed box was a fascinating experience. However, a curiosity lingered in my mind – why hadn't he cracked it open as a kid? As Jim placed the box back on the shelf, right beside another Catwoman, still in the box, and flanked by two Catwomen that had ventured out, he candidly explained, "I didn't want to play with a 'girl' toy when I was young." His explanation, though understandable, left me pondering. As a kid, I would have found this reasoning rather puzzling. But then again, as a collector, Jim's choice became his gain.

Reflecting on this, I couldn't help but think about my own approach. Opening Princess Leia from Star Wars or Lady Jaye from GI-Joe – those actions felt second nature to me. The allure of preserving the original packaging paled in comparison to the exhilaration of embracing the toy itself. If I found myself in possession of a Catwoman, with her strikingly funky pirate-esque ensemble, I doubt I could resist the urge to set her free from her packaging. In the world of collecting, I might be deemed a bit of a renegade, for my toys often wander out of their original boxes. But I've come to realize that the true value lies in the experiences they bring, both then and now.