1960s Fiji-Made South Pacific Hard Plastic Boy Figurine

A small 1960s hard plastic souvenir figurine depicting a South Pacific island boy with a woven-style headband.

This vintage 1960s hard plastic figurine represents a young South Pacific island boy, most likely sold as a tourist souvenir in Fiji and neighbouring Pacific nations during the mid-20th century. These small “islander” figures were commonly produced in Hong Kong, Japan, and occasionally locally for the Fiji tourism market, often styled with exaggerated features, painted details, and simple accessories such as this colourful woven-style headband. The boy stands with one finger raised to his lips — an iconic pose used in several souvenir moulds of the period — while the overall form is rounded, with simple moulding lines and characteristic glossy plastic that became common after the rise of inexpensive injection-moulded plastics in the 1950s–60s.

This example is unmarked but aligns closely with 1960s Hong Kong export souvenir dolls, which were widely distributed throughout the South Pacific. The figure stands 95 mm high and remains in excellent condition, with original hair, intact headband, and minimal surface wear. These small cultural souvenir figures formed part of the expanding mid-century travel industry, representing a now-collectable style of kitsch Pacific memorabilia.

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Features

Measurements: 30 x 40 x 90 mm high

Condition: Excellent

Markings:

Date Note: Date is an estimate based on available research and stylistic features. If you have additional information, please contact us to help update our records.

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Made from the following materials

Hard plastic dolls and toys emerged as a significant innovation in the toy industry during the mid-20th century, revolutionizing the way dolls were designed and manufactured. Hard plastic is a type of thermoplastic, characterized by its durability, lightweight nature, and resistance to breakage. This material became popular for creating dolls, action figures, and various toys due to its versatility and ability to hold intricate details and vibrant colors.

The development of hard plastic allowed for the mass production of toys that were not only affordable but also more resilient than earlier materials like composition or porcelain. As a result, manufacturers were able to produce a wide variety of designs, from classic baby dolls to trendy fashion figures, each with detailed facial features and movable limbs. This material also enabled the incorporation of new techniques, such as molded hair and painted eyes, which enhanced the realism and appeal of the dolls.

Among the earliest forms of hard plastic used in toy manufacturing was **Bakelite**, created in the early 1900s by Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland. Bakelite is one of the first synthetic plastics, made from phenol and formaldehyde. Its properties, including heat resistance and electrical insulation, made it ideal for various applications, including toys. While Bakelite itself is not commonly used in doll-making today, its introduction paved the way for the development of modern plastics in the toy industry.

**Catalin** is another early form of hard plastic that emerged in the 1930s and was often used for creating vibrant toys and dolls. Like Bakelite, Catalin is a thermosetting plastic known for its durability and ability to hold color well. Catalin toys often featured bright, translucent colors and intricate designs, capturing the imaginations of children and collectors alike.

As hard plastic became the standard for many types of dolls and toys, it solidified its place in the industry, leading to the creation of iconic brands and beloved characters. Today, hard plastic dolls and toys continue to be popular, appreciated for their longevity and the nostalgia they evoke. Collectors value vintage hard plastic toys for their craftsmanship and the unique place they hold in the history of toy making.

At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of hard plastic dolls and toys, highlighting their role in shaping the modern toy industry and their enduring appeal across generations.