Catwoman - Dark Purple Inset
sh017 · Super Heroes
DC Universe - Batman · 2012 (Debuted in set 6858 Catwoman Catcycle City Chase)
Figure ID
sh017
Theme
Super Heroes
Year Released
2012 (Debuted in set 6858 Catwoman Catcycle City Chase)
Rarity
Uncommon. While appearing in a relatively inexpensive set, this specific design is retired and belongs to the early era of the licensed Super Heroes line.
Head
Flesh tone with cat mask printing. Features large white goggles, a smirk, and black mask border. It is a single-sided print to accommodate the separate cowl piece.
Torso
Black with dark purple side panels, a silver zipper line down the center, and a utility belt print at the bottom. The back features subtle zipper and seam detailing. Hands are black.
Legs
Plain black legs with no printing. Standard adult size.
Accessories
Typically comes with a black cat-ear cowl (Part 97061) and a black whip. The cowl is the standout element, giving the figure its iconic silhouette.
Color Scheme
A primary color scheme of black and dark purple, accented with silver for the zipper and belt buckle. This reflects the character's comic-book aesthetic from the early 2010s.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso and head. The alignment is generally centered, though the silver zipper can sometimes show slight wear on used figures. There is no leg or arm printing.
Variants
This is the 'modern' comic version for 2012. Other variants include the 2006 classic purple version (bat016), the 2014 movie version (sh063), and the LEGO Batman Movie variants with yellow goggles.
Condition Notes
The black plastic shows scratches easily. The cat-ear cowl piece is prone to 'ear' chipping if dropped. Check for silver paint wear on the torso zipper and neck-point stress marks.
Estimated Value
Used: $8-$12. New: $15-$20. Individual head/cowl pieces often sell for $3-$5 each.
Price (New)
Originally available in set 6858 for $12.99 USD retail, making it a very affordable way to get the character at the time.
Compatible Sets
6858 Catwoman Catcycle City Chase, 10737 Batman vs. Mr. Freeze (Juniors reprint version), and 50003 Batman Board Game.
Character Background
Selina Kyle, also known as Catwoman, is a master thief and anti-hero from DC Comics. This specific design is heavily inspired by her Jim Lee and Ed Brubaker era costumes.
Design Notes
This figure introduced the modern rubberized/plastic cowl mold (97061) which replaced the previous 2006 version. It was a significant step toward character-accurate headpieces.
Similar Minifigures
sh063 Catwoman (The Dark Knight Rises), bat016 Catwoman (2006), and various Black Widow figures which share the tactical suit aesthetic.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is a staple character for any DC/Batman collector. While not as valuable as the 2006 original, its connection to the early Super Heroes wave keeps demand stable.
History
Launched as part of the massive 2012 DC Super Heroes relaunch, replacing the long-dormant Batman theme from 2006-2008. This version remained the 'standard' comic Catwoman for several years.
Interesting Facts
Despite her 'villain' status, this minifigure appeared in a Juniors set, highlighting her crossover appeal. The dark purple side panels are a subtle nod to her original 1940s purple dress.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the 6858 Catcycle or with other Arkham Rogues like Joker and Two-Face. Use a clear 1x2 brick to pose her 'pouncing'. Protect from UV to prevent purple fading.
Modification Potential
Excellent base for custom Selina Kyle figures. Switching the head for a hairpiece allows for an 'unmasked' look. The torso is highly reusable for custom stealth characters.
Overall Assessment
A solid, classic representation of the character. While lacking the leg printing of modern figures, the cowl and clean torso design make it an essential and affordable piece of LEGO Batman history.