Hot Wheels Crack-Ups Crash Course from Mattel (1985)
“Then we can bash ’em. And trash ’em. We love it!”
Vintage Advertising
Remember the toys and games of years past through vintage advertising – for better and for worse!
Jewel Magic from Mattel (1975)
When loaded with beads, Jewel Magic produced “oodles of baubles ‘n bangles” at the turn of its handle.
Transformers from Hasbro (1985)
“Get ’em by Thanksgiving Weekend so you can give ’em at Christmas.”
Colossal Cars Collection from Monogram (1976)
In 1976, Monogram reinforced the notion that bigger is better with the release of its Colossal Cars collection.
Big Bird StoryMagic from Ideal (1986)
“Me, me, wonderful me!”
Dr. Seuss Zoo from Revell (1959)
In 1959, plastic-scale model manufacturer Revell released the Dr. Seuss Zoo, a set of model kits based on the work of children’s author and cartoonist Dr. Seuss.
Monsterizer from Remco (1980)
“Activate the Monsterizer!”
Microscopes from Gilbert Toys (1965)
In 1965, Gilbert re-designed its hands-on microscope kits to include a new, ruggedized, professional look and newer higher-visibility packaging.
Meccano Construction Sets from Meccano (1979)
“Real features. Real fun. That’s today’s Meccano.”
Famous Replicas from Amsco (1961)
Amsco’s Famous Replicas toy line reflected the company’s guiding philosophy that “kids like to play grown-up.”
Nerf Crossbow, Ripsaw, and Secret Shot from Tonka (1995)
“The world is your arcade when you take aim with Nerf.”
Debbie Lawler Daredevil Jump Set from Kenner (1974)
To commemorate the high-flying exploits of daredevil motorcycle jumper, Debbie Lawler, Kenner released a signature Jump Set as part of its Turbo Tower of Power (TTP) line in 1974.
GoBots Command Center from Tonka (1984)
“Enemy GoBot attacking!”
Evel Knievel Precision Miniatures from Ideal (1976)
In the 1970s, Ideal Toy Company produced several toy lines that featured legendary stunt performer, Evel Knievel, including a series of precision diecast miniatures.
Zzzoom•It from Mattel (1971)
“Are you ready for Zzzoom•It? That’s right, Zzzoom•It! A new way to play from Mattel.”
Play-Doh Activity Sets from Kenner (1980)
In 1980, Kenner released several Play-Doh activity sets that featured some of their popular licensed properties, including Sesame Street, Strawberry Shortcake, The Flintstones, and Star Wars.
Strange Change Machine from Mattel (1968)
“This is a creature from the lost world…”
Mattel See ‘n Say Toys (1974)
Mattel’s See ‘n Say educational talking toys re-purposed a mechanism in the company’s popular Chatty Cathy doll.