Souvenir octopus toy from the OCEAN MONARCH
Datec 1974
Object number00038503
NameToy
MediumFabric
DimensionsOverall: 230 x 90 x 65 mm, 0.12 kg
ClassificationsToys, games and souvenirs
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Sidney Lazarus
DescriptionA souvenir soft toy octopus purchased on board the OCEAN MONARCH. The octopus is wearing a gob cap with a badge reading 'OCEAN MONARCH'.HistoryThis octopus toy was bought by Sidney Lazarus on a holiday trip on the passenger liner ORIANA in 1974.
Sidney Lazarus remembers that these toys were commonly sold in passenger liner gift shops at this time and were deliberately of a uniform design so they could be promoted as collectables.They have been held in the Lazarus family since purchase in 1974. Sidney Lazarus remembers the price of the octopus toys as being approximately (UK) two shillings.
On the OCEAN MONARCH trip the Lazarus family sailed from Southampton around the Mediterranean and then returned to Southampton.
SignificanceCheap, portable and functional items such as toys, ashtrays, key rings, matchboxes, bags, paperweights, pens and T-shirts have always been popular souvenirs purchased on cruise ships or from ports of call. When emblazoned with the name or image of the vessel that the passenger temporarily calls home, the item can be immediately understood.
1970s
