Lot # 5079: 1933 Feen-A-Mint Babe Ruth Mask

This fascinating novelty item was issued in 1933 as a promotion for "Feen-A-Mint" laxative chewing gum. The paper mask features a very colorful image of Babe Ruth with slots cut above the eyes and along the nose to allow for visibility and breathing. We're not sure what the overall concept was for this promotion. Apparently, "Feen-A-Mint" executives envisioned thousands of youngsters in Ruth masks, each of them eager to take laxatives and encouraging others to take them as well. We're not even sure how Ruth fits into all of this. When issued, a rubber band attached by a folding tab on the reverse of each side allowed the mask to attach to a youngster's ears. One tab has printed "Babe Ruth by arrangement with Christy Walsh, copyright 1933"; the other tab reads "Babe Ruth with the compliments of Feen-A-Mint, The Chewing Gum Laxative for adults and children." The rubber bands are no longer present, and the tabs are folded over. Poor condition overall. Dimensions: 6.5 x 9.5 inches. This is a very rare and unusual Babe Ruth item that is ideal for display.