Learning about Lunch Box Collecting
By Michele Blandino
Among the hottest collectible items are metal lunchboxes. For those of us who grew up in the 1960's and early 1970's, the lunchbox was one of the staples of back-to-school preparations. Adorned with images of cartoon characters, superheros, and pop stars, to some kids, having the "right" lunchbox was nearly as important as having the "right" teacher.
A Little History
Interestingly, the lunchbox has its roots in the tobacco industry. During the early 1900's, many tobacco companies packaged their products in decorative re-usable tins. One of the most common uses for these tins was carrying lunches. By the 1930's, toy manufacturers got into the act and began manufacturing metal boxes specifically for carrying lunches.
While there were many companies that made lunchboxes, the majority were made by Aladdin Industries and King Steeley Thermos, the same company that brought us the insulated bottle for packing hot and cold beverages. Metal continued to be the primary material used in their manufacture until the 1980's when the more durable vinyl was introduced.
Although character lunchboxes haven't totally faded from the elementary school scene, the combination of expanded school lunch programs and lower-priced "generic" insulated lunch bags have made them less prominent in recent years.
What to Collect
With thousands of styles manufactured over the years, it's probably a good idea to settle on a type of lunchbox genre, for instance boxes that feature television shows, or sports teams, or cartoon characters, before launching into your search.
You will also want to decide whether you are also interested in collecting the thermos bottle that was sold with many of the lunchboxes manufactured during this period. While the addition of the thermos bottle, especially one in good condition, will make the lunchbox more expensive, it should also bring you a better price should you decide to sell it at a later time. If, however, you are buying the box for nostalgic reasons or if you wish to display it in your home, then chances are the thermos will not be as important.
What to Look For
Obviously, you will be looking for lunchboxes that are in the best condition possible. While it is reasonable to expect some rust and wear typical of an item that is 30 or 40 years old, you do not want to pay $100 for a lunchbox with a surface that is half obscured by rust. If you are buying online, be sure to ask for pictures of every surface of the box as some dealers may only provide a photo of one side.
Some wear around the edges in inevitable. Remember, most of these lunchboxes spent their first life being tossed around schoolyards, school busses and lunchrooms before being retired to a shelf in someone's basement. If, when looking at photos of a box you are interested in buying, you notice rust spots in areas other than the edges, ask for a close-up photo of that area so you can investigate further. A reputable dealer will honor your request for a closer look.
How Much to Spend
How much you spend will depend on the type of lunchbox you are buying. Before making your purchase, take the time to do some research. Some lunchboxes sell for as little as $10 while other more rare types, particularly those with the domed tops, can go for several hundred dollars. Don't take the seller's word that a particular style is "rare" or "hard to find" at face value. Do some checking on your own before committing to a purchase.
Where to Learn More
There are a number of websites devoted to this hobby. Here are a few:
