Long before the internet and influencers shaped children’s desires, printed toy ads ignited imaginations. Browse a selection of vintage toy advertisements that inspired children’s wish lists.

“…the mightiest warship you’ll ever see.”

Wham-O’s Fencing Swords set let wannabe Fencers practice sword fighting.

1978 marked the 25th year Matchbox diecast vehicles were available to fans and collectors.

“We’ll picnic and have fun at our secret tree.”

In 1969, Hasbro updated its popular Talking Telephones line with new features, new TV shows, and new cartoon brands.

“Lock blocks here; snap panels there; and BLIPPO, there’s a tower in the air!”

Think-a-Dot from E.S.R. was an educational toy that gave players insight into a fundamental computer concept: the “flip-flops” or “gates” used to store information.

“It’s Tuba-Ruba, the hottest game in town.”

It’s Olympic skiing, Barbie-style!

The 1964 Johnny Seven toy line of playsets and facsimiles of military equipment from Topper Toys was marketed exclusively to boys.

“I used to play around…”