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Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse and Pluto

Maker Happynak (British, 1915 - 1940)

Date1935-1939

Object number00000162

NameBeach bucket

MediumTin

DimensionsOverall: 92 x 110 x 100 mm, 0.05 kg

ClassificationsPosters and postcards

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionA tin beach bucket decorated with the Disney characters Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse and Pluto. Made in England during the 1930s by Happynak toys.HistoryIn 1915 Paton, Calvert & Co. launched simple construction toys assembled without bolts and nuts, followed in 1920 by metal-kitchen, dining and tea service, beach buckets, piggy banks, acrobatic clowns and bowling sets. This company also manufactured the metal Happynak toys. In 1935 the Happynak toys were printed with Mickey and Minnie Mouse designs. The factory area was reduced in 1932, and again in 1934 and 1935. By the time the war began, the company had ceased all activities. 1929 Listed Exhibitor - British Industries Fair. The 'Happynak' Series of Metal Toys, including Tea Sets, Drums, Seaside Pails and Spades, Money Boxes. Hardware Lines including Tea Trays, Kerbs, Hearthplates, Anti-Splashplates. Baking Pans. The 'Gee-Wiz' Race Game. [http://au.fabtintoys.com/netsearch.php?sq=happynak&page=2#navigation]SignificanceLeisure time at the beach is a quintessential part of coastal life in Australia. Although beach toys have evolved over the years, the joy of playing in the sand with a bucket and spade has changed little.