In 1999, Hasbro released a Qui-Gon Jinn figure together with an Eopie. The set was difficult to obtain in the U.S. and went for premium prices on Ebay. Ten years later, Hasbro decided to re-release the hard to get set for fans, but with an updated Qui-Gon Jinn figure, and a re-painted Eopie. The set could be obtained via mail when the UPC codes from any five figures from the Legacy Collection (incl. Legends) or the Clone Wars Collection were sent in along with a check of $6.99.
This mail-in promotion ran from Summer 2009 until March 31st, 2010. The first sets arrived on doorsteps in early October '09.
The mailer box and the contents
Hasbro sent Qui-Gon out in a white mailer box without any additional protection. The figure arrived in a pretty beat-up condition. If you collect boxed/carded, it will be difficult to get your hands on mint packaging. The figure and the Eopie were in prestine condition.
Eopie comparisons
The 2009 Eopie uses the same mold which Hasbro used back in 1999. This time however the paint application is different. The "new" Eopie features a more yellowish skin color, has far less frackles on the stomach, and has differently painted bags. Also, the 2009 version has more "dirt" applied around the neck and head area.
After comparing both Eopies for a while, it's hard to say which one is nicer. The skin color on the 1999 version seems to be nicer, but the bags and pouches are painted nicer on the 2009 version. The bottom line is that they are both pretty nice. Granted, the Eopie has only 5 joints (swivel neck, 4 swivel legs and no joints in the knees or ankles), but it does look nice on display.
Qui-Gon Jinn comparisons
The clear winner here is the 2009 version with more joints, a better Liam Neeson likeness, and overall more details. However, both figures fit well onto the Eopie. For a closer look at both figures, please take a look at the individual figure entries:
Qui-Gon Jinn 1999 Figure Review
Qui-Gon Jinn 2009 Figure Review