Sunday, June 4, 2023


 1954 Official Roller Skates of Ringling Bros. n Barnum by UNION Hardware Co. Original Toy Trade Ad 

The Union roller skates were declared the official skates of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in 1954. This partnership was a testament to the durability and reliability of Union skates, as they had to withstand the rigorous demands of circus performances. Skating acts became more popular during this time, and the Union skates were the go-to choice for professional skaters. The Circus later closed in 2017, but the Union brand continues to be a respected name in the roller skating industry.


1953 HALCO'S Halloween Costumes EERIE Electric Eye Men From Space Original Toy Trade Ad

In 1953, HALCO introduced their Halloween Costumes with the tagline "Be the EERIE Electric Eye Men From Space". The original advertisement featured a group of children dressed in these otherworldly costumes that were sure to capture people's attention. The costumes included a mask with a wire connected to the eye, which could light up when connected to a battery. HALCO's futuristic and eerie costume designs reflected the fascination with space during that time, making them a popular choice for Halloween. These costumes have now become collectors' items and a true piece of Halloween nostalgia.

Saturday, June 3, 2023


 1950 SAUDERS' Police Squad Car  Plastic Mechanical Toys Original Toy Trade Ad.



Thursday, June 1, 2023


 1951 Watch The Birdie Camera a Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

The Watch The Birdie Camera is the perfect toy for budding photographers! This fun and educational camera allows children to capture their favorite moments with ease. It features a real viewfinder, a built-in flash, and a cool design that kids will love. With the Watch The Birdie Camera, kids can learn about the basics of photography while having fun at the same time. This is a high-quality and durable toy that parents can trust to keep their children entertained for hours. Don't miss out on this must-have toy for kids of all ages!


1952 Noso's Jetwirl  1953 "PULL OVER" automatic's Cop 'N Car by Automatic Toy Company a Toy Trade Ad.

The 1950s saw the rise of futuristic toy designs such as Noso's Jetwirl and Automatic Toy Company's "PULL OVER" Cop 'N Car. The Jetwirl, first produced in 1952, was a battery-operated toy that resembled a flying saucer. Its unique design included spinning blades that created a vortex effect, allowing it to hover and move around. "PULL OVER", released in 1953, featured an automatic car with a flashing light and siren, and a police officer figure that would pop out of the roof when a button was pushed. These toys exemplified the fascination with space-age technology and excitement for modern advancements in the 1950s.


1954 NANCY ANN STORYBOOK DOLLS Muffie She walks a Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.


1954 Jack Dempsey Boxing Gloves & Zimphone by Vintage Products Co Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.


1953 NOMA LIGHT Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

In 1953, Playthings Magazine published a trade advertisement for NOMA LIGHT toys. The ad portrayed different NOMA LIGHT toys such as a train, airplane, and car, all illuminated by the brand's patented lighting system. NOMA LIGHT's unique and safe lighting system was highlighted as a key feature of the toys. The ad targeted retailers, emphasizing the potential for increased sales during the holiday season.


1953 EASTER TOYS by KNICKERBOCKER Plastic Company Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

The Knickerbocker Plastic Company's Easter toy collection for 1953 was showcased in an advertisement in Playthings Magazine. The toys featured were made from high-quality plastic and included a bunny with a drum, an egg parade float, a chick in a basket, and a bunny that hopped when pulled. The advertisement emphasized the safety and durability of the toys and encouraged retailers to stock their shelves with them for the upcoming Easter season.


1952 Slinky Jr. Goes to the Circus James Industries, INC Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

In a 1952 advertisement in Playthings Magazine, James Industries INC promotes its Slinky Jr. toy by showcasing its exciting adventure at the circus. The ad features a colorful image of the Slinky Jr. in action, accompanied by an exciting story of how it interacts with the circus animals, and performers, and even travels on a tightrope. The Slinky Jr. is popular among children of all ages and is the perfect toy for imaginative playtime. This ad successfully highlights the toy's versatility and encourages parents to purchase it for their children.


1952 Noso's Jetwirl Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

In 1952, Playthings Magazine featured a trade ad for Noso's Jetwirl Toy, a spinning top that promised hours of fun for children. The ad emphasized the toy's unique design and durable construction, as well as its affordability for both retailers and customers. With colorful illustrations and bold text, the ad aimed to attract attention from toy store owners and parents alike, promoting the Jetwirl as a must-have item for any child's playtime.


1952 Knickerbocker Repeating Water Pistols Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

In 1952, Knickerbocker introduced their Repeating Water Pistols toy, which was advertised in Playthings Magazine as "the ultimate in toy realism." The ad showcased the toy's ability to shoot water in a continuous stream without the need for pumping, unlike other water guns of the time. The Repeating Water Pistols featured a sleek design and various colors, allowing for children to choose their favorite and engage in water battles with ease. The ad highlighted the toy's quality and durability, making it a must-have for any young water warrior.


1949 Flex Bugs Bunny M. & H. Novelty Co. Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

A trade ad from Playthings Magazine of 1949 highlights the Flex Bugs Bunny toy manufactured by the M. & H. Novelty Co. The toy features a flexible and bendable body, allowing for various poses and positions. With its bright colors and cartoonish appearance, the toy is sure to attract the attention of children and adults alike. As a popular character from the Looney Tunes franchise, Bugs Bunny's presence in the toy market during this era is no surprise.


1949 Butch Atlas Quality Stuffed Toy Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

The 1949 Butch Atlas Quality Stuffed Toy is featured in Playthings Magazine, the national magazine of the toy trade. This high-quality stuffed toy is made with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring that it will delight children for years to come. It is made from the finest materials and is designed to be both safe and durable. This toy is sure to be a hit with children and parents alike, making it a must-have for any toy store or gift shop.


1948 SAUNDERS' De Luxe Mechanical Sedan & Speedway Mechanical Racer Toy Trade Ad from Playthings Magazine The National Magazine of the Toy Trade.

 In 1948, Playthings Magazine featured a trade ad for the Saunders' De Luxe Mechanical Sedan and Speedway Mechanical Racer toys. The ad touted the realism and precision of these mechanical toys, which were made with durable materials and intricate details. The Sedan was described as a "wonderful performer" with turning headlights and a "realistic" horn while the Speedway Racer boasted a "powerful clockwork motor." Both toys were recommended for children aged six and up and were sure to provide hours of fun and excitement.