Toys · 1957
Plastic Dreams and Backyard Craze Innovations
In 1957, suburban playrooms and backyards buzzed with innovative plastics, die-cast metal vehicles, and new tabletop strategy games. Television advertising transformed simple playthings into national sensations, sparking unprecedented demand across post-war childhood.
- Wham-O | Flying Disc | USA
Pluto Platter (Frisbee)
Wham-O bought Fred Morrison's plastic flying disc design and launched the Pluto Platter in early 1957, igniting a worldwide catching craze.
- Fisher-Price | Push Toy | USA
Fisher-Price Corn Popper
Introduced in 1957, this push toy featuring churning colorful balls under a clear dome quickly became an enduring toddler milestone.
- Topps | Trading Cards | USA
Topps 1957 Baseball Card Set
Topps established the modern standard card size and introduced full-color real photo stock, creating a seminal set for sports collectors.
- Miro Company | Board Game | France
La Conquête du Monde (Risk)
Invented by French director Albert Lamorisse, this strategic military conquest board game debuted in France before sweeping the globe.
- Parker Brothers | Board Game | USA
Careers Board Game
Parker Brothers published this game of ambition, challenging players to balance fame, fortune, and happiness on a dynamic game board.
- Rainbow Crafts | Craft Toy | USA
Play-Doh Modeling Compound
Spurred by television ads on Captain Kangaroo throughout 1957, this soft modeling clay expanded from a wallpaper cleaner into a toy box powerhouse.
- James Industries | Pull Toy | USA
Slinky Dog
Featuring a slinky spring connecting its front and back halves, this iconic waddling pull toy hit store shelves after its 1957 patent.
- Lesney | Die-Cast Vehicles | UK
Lesney Matchbox Cars
Lesney expanded its miniature die-cast vehicle line in 1957, captivating kids with affordable, detailed pocket-sized automobiles.
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