1975 Hallmark Barnaby Bunny Vinyl Coin Purse

A charming 1975 children’s vinyl coin purse featuring Hallmark’s Barnaby Bunny with Easter-themed artwork, produced as a novelty accessory during the mid-1970s.

This Barnaby Bunny children’s coin purse was produced in 1975 by Hallmark Cards, Inc. and features cheerful Easter-themed artwork showing Barnaby Bunny alongside a chick and decorated eggs. Barnaby Bunny was a popular Hallmark character during the 1970s, commonly appearing on greeting cards, giftware, and children’s novelty items.

The purse is constructed from moulded vinyl with a metal clip closure and gold-tone chain handle. The front is finished in pale blue with the printed illustration, while the back is plain white. Production markings on the reverse confirm the date and manufacturer, reading “Barnaby Bunny © 1975 HallmarkCards, Inc., Kansas City, MO 64141,” along with the model reference “150EDF6-4.”

Manufactured in Hong Kong, this piece reflects the widespread outsourcing of novelty and accessory production during the 1970s. It remains in excellent condition, with clean colours, intact chain and clasp, and minimal signs of age-related wear.

Features

Measurements: 100mm wide x 110 mm high x 10 mm deep Chain length: approx. 200 mm

Condition: Excellent

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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

Vinyl has become one of the most widely used materials in the production of dolls and toys, thanks to its durability, versatility, and ability to be moulded into intricate designs. Since its introduction in the mid-20th century, vinyl has significantly impacted the toy industry, allowing for the creation of vibrant, detailed, and long-lasting playthings that have captured the hearts of children and collectors alike.

What is Vinyl?

Vinyl is a type of plastic made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is known for its strength, flexibility, and resistance to wear and tear. This synthetic material can be produced in various colors and textures, making it ideal for crafting lifelike dolls and toys that appeal to a broad audience. Vinyl can be easily molded and shaped, allowing manufacturers to create complex forms and features, from realistic facial expressions to detailed clothing.

Applications in Doll and Toy Making

Vinyl is particularly popular in the production of soft-bodied dolls, action figures, and playsets. Vinyl dolls often have a soft exterior while maintaining a solid structure, making them lightweight and easy for young children to handle. Many classic doll brands, such as Barbie and American Girl, utilize vinyl for their figures, providing a realistic look and feel while ensuring durability for play.

In addition to dolls, vinyl is widely used for a range of toys, including play kitchen sets, figurines, and collectible toys. The ability to create bright colors and intricate designs has made vinyl a favorite material for manufacturers aiming to produce eye-catching toys that resonate with children's imaginations.

Collectibility and Customization

Vinyl toys have become highly collectible, particularly among adult enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship involved in their design. Many artists and independent designers have embraced vinyl as a medium, creating limited-edition figures and unique toys that appeal to collectors. Customization has also gained popularity, with enthusiasts modifying vinyl toys to create one-of-a-kind pieces, showcasing their artistic skills and personal styles.

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Metal has played a significant role in the history of dolls and toys, with materials like cast iron, tin, and brass being used for centuries to create durable and appealing playthings. Each type of metal has distinct characteristics that have influenced its application in the toy industry, leading to a variety of designs and styles.

Cast Iron

Cast iron was one of the first metals used in toy manufacturing, particularly during the 19th century. Its strength and durability made it ideal for creating toys that could withstand the rigors of play. Cast iron toys were often made using molds, allowing for mass production and the creation of intricate designs. Popular cast iron toys included figurines, toy cars, and trains, many of which featured detailed craftsmanship and decorative paintwork. These toys were not only popular with children but also became collectible items over time, cherished for their historical significance and nostalgic appeal.

Tin

Tin, often used in the form of tinplate, became a favored material for toy manufacturing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tin toys were lightweight, affordable, and could be produced in large quantities, making them accessible to a wide audience. Tinplate was often stamped or lithographed with colorful designs, bringing characters and scenes to life. Classic examples of tin toys include wind-up cars, robots, and playful animals, many of which featured moving parts that delighted children. Tin toys remain popular among collectors today, valued for their charm and the artistry involved in their design.

Brass

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, has been used in toy making for its attractive appearance and durability. It is particularly well-suited for creating smaller components, such as gears and mechanisms in wind-up toys. The shiny, golden hue of brass gives toys a sense of elegance and sophistication, often seen in decorative pieces and collectibles. While brass dolls are less common than those made from other materials, some artisans have crafted beautiful dolls with brass accents, adding a touch of luxury to their designs.

Throughout history, the use of metal in dolls and toys has allowed for a diverse range of creations, each reflecting the technological advancements and artistic trends of their time. The durability of metal ensures that many of these toys have stood the test of time, allowing them to be enjoyed by new generations of children and collectors alike.

At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of metal dolls and toys, highlighting their role in the evolution of play and the craftsmanship that goes into creating these timeless treasures. From the strength of cast iron to the whimsical designs of tin and the elegance of brass, these materials tell a rich story of creativity and innovation in the world of toys.

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