c.1950s Amsco Doll Bottle Steriliser Set with Glass Feeding Bottles, USA
A mid-century doll nursery accessory set featuring an Amsco toy bottle steriliser bucket with assorted miniature glass feeding bottles and original wire carrier.
This charming mid-century doll nursery set includes a green painted metal toy steriliser bucket with matching lid, wire bottle carrier, and five miniature glass feeding bottles. The steriliser retains part of its original oval Amsco paper label reading “Created by Amsco – American Metal Specialties Corp. – Hatboro, Penna.” The accompanying bottles are a mixture of nursery anddoll accessory styles, featuring moulded measurement scales, embossed makermarkings, and various rubber teats.
American Metal Specialties Corporation, better known as Amsco, was a major American toy manufacturer active during the mid-20th century. The company produced a wide range of metal household toys, nursery accessories, doll furniture, and educational play items. Toy steriliser sets such as this reflected changing post-war attitudes toward hygiene, modern motherhood, and scientific childcare practices, mirroring real household equipment used in the 1940s and 1950s.
Condition
The painted steriliser bucket shows age-related wear, scratches, surface rust, and losses to the original paper label. One bottle is missing its rubber teat. The wire carrier shows oxidation and wear. Glass bottles remain generallyintact with light scratches and manufacturing imperfections consistent with ageand use. Overall, the set displays well despite wear.
Historical Significance
Post-war doll nursery accessories became increasingly sophisticated as toy companies reproduced real household childcare equipment in miniature form. Amsco was among the companies leading this trend in America during the 1940s and 1950s. Sets such as this provide insight into evolving domestic culture, hygiene practices, and the growing commercialisation of childcare products during the baby boom era.
Features
Measurements: Bucket 115 mm x 130 mm diameter, Bottles each - 100mm x 35mm x 25mm
Condition: Fair
Markings: Created by Amsco – American Metal Specialties Corp. – Hatboro, Penna.
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.
Made from the following materials
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.
...
Additional Product Images
Related Dolls and Toys from our collection
