Saturday, October 5, 2024

Make Some Noise

After yesterday's reflective and somber post, let's return to some light-hearted Halloween fun.

I found this U.S. Metal Toy Mfg. Co. Halloween noisemaker at an estate sale sitting in a case at checkout.  This is where estate sale companies tend to keep smalls and valuables to head off shoplifting.  While the price for Halloween collectibles has risen considerably at estate sales, it's still possible to find deals and this was one.  I think I paid $10.  The graphics are very nice on this one. It probably dates from the 1950's.





There's not much history on U.S. Metal Toy Manufacturing Company available on the internet. They appear to have been in business from the 1940's through the 80's and produced themed noisemakers for various holidays.

7 comments:

  1. Those graphics are amazing. You find the coolest stuff.

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    1. Thanks, Lady M. It's hit and miss. I come home empty-handed many weekends.

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  2. Love the graphics on these. You really know your stuff -- i'd have walked away at that price!

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    1. A few years ago, I would have walked away. But vintage Halloween prices have skyrocketed. I think we may be seeing the bubble burst though. It seem like things aren't selling the way they were a couple years (or even last year) ago.

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    2. You know that scene in "A Charlie Brown Christmas" where CB sees Snoopy's blinged-out dog house? i call it "Charlie Brownification," and i think that's where we're at with Halloween now. it's too much. Halloween has long had a level of commercialization, but i feel that the past 5+ years has really seen it go to absurd levels.

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  3. Wonderful illustrations and composition! Wonderful!

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