Plastic Novelties & Toys, 2nd Edition | Schifferbooks

Plastic Novelties and Toys of the '40s, '50s, and '60s, 2nd Edition

A joyful celebration of vintage Christmas, Halloween, and holiday collectibles—exploring the world of hard plastic toys, candy containers, and the forgotten magic behind New England’s midcentury novelties.

Step back in time to the bright colors and charming figures of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. This book is a treasure chest for collectors and nostalgia lovers alike, chronicling the rise of hard plastic toys and decorations that turned every holiday into a memory factory. From the legendary Rosbro Santas and Halloween witches to E. Rosen’s beloved candy containers, discover the hidden stories and quirky details behind the pieces that once brought delight to millions of American homes.

Through rich stories and over a hundred vivid photos, Jean Rossi opens her family’s archives and her heart. She shares decades of hands-on collecting and connects you to the real faces—immigrant dreamers, inventors, and tireless factory teams—who shaped this playful world. Not just display pieces, each figure carries a tale: the quest for elusive molds, the sweet chaos of candy assembly lines, and the thrill of spotting a rare Rosbro or Irwin in the wild.

Want to know how to tell a rare Knickerbocker bunny from its rivals? Or what makes a Halloween cat worth a fortune? With practical guidance on evaluating, identifying, and preserving midcentury collectibles, you’ll be ready to hunt, cherish, and share these little sparks of holiday joy. Inspired collectors of Holiday Plastic Novelties will find themselves right at home.

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