Collector Profile: Chaz George’s Rare Batman Toys

If you are a Batman collector, you will certainly appreciate Chaz George’s collection of rare Batman memorabilia. Let’s take a closer look…

How did your collection start? What was the first item in your collection?
My collection started over my deep love for Batman. The first item in my collection I recall was the Batman 8″ Mego Action Figure as a child growing up in the 1970’s and then when I got the fervor as an adult collector that was the first must-have piece to acquire, and it grew from there and took over my life.

Approximately how many items are in your collection?
There are a few thousand items in my collection at the moment because I have sold at least 3,000 pieces in the past 20 years.

Do you have a favorite item in your collection?
My all time favorite item is the 1966 Ideal Batman Utility Belt Set. It is considered by collectors of vintage Batman toys to be the top “Holy Grail” item. While it was one of the more common items back in ’66, it is now nearly impossible to find a complete, all original set for sale. I have owned 20 sets over the years. I’m obsessed — I’m down to 13 variations on the set, including three in original boxes and the rare Ideal Factory (White) ~Test Shot~ Prototype Set, which I purchased from a doctor many years ago, long before people started reproducing some of the parts.

How do you store/display your collection?
I used to display everything I had when I could keep up with the dusting, but lately my fixtures are taken up by my daughter’s extensive Monster High & Black Butler collections, which I help her with. I enjoy knowing the bulk of my items are safe from the elements and I like having a small display in my bedroom.

Is there a “holy grail” item that you would love to add to your collection?
Recently my focus has been the 1966 Ideal Batman/Justice League of America Play Set, I finally completed it! It is said there are only 4 complete examples known in existence. It is a magnificent triumph. Since I’ve conquered the toy department, my ultimate “Holy Grail” item is the very first comic book debut appearance of Batman in Detective Comics No. 27 from 1939.

Do you collect other things?
I’ve collected many other subjects, they include: Other DC & Marvel Super Heroes especially Superman and Spider-Man, Star Wars, The Beatles, The Monkees, Michael Jackson, Monsters, McDonald’s, Masters Of The Universe, Tom & Jerry, Scooby-Doo, Smurfs, E.T. and Lionel Kiddie City.

Do you have any advice for new collectors who are just starting a collection?
My advice for new collectors who are just starting out would be to follow your heart and the golden rule of collecting what you love because my hunt is driven by nostalgic sentiments more than monetary value. Collect stuff you can’t live without.

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Chaz is offering some Batman rarities in Serious Toyz Auction #58 on September 22nd & 23rd and in Heritage Auctions Comic and Comic Art Auction in November.

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If you are a collector and would like to share your passion with other like-minded collectors, just fill out the collector profile form.