Silly Putty, circa 1962

01

Artifact Overview

Silly Putty bounces, stretches and can be molded into different shapes. This elastic, synthetic substance was a failed attempt by a General Electric chemical engineer to find a substitute for rubber during World War II. After the war, however, it became a classic toy. Millions of children and adults have enjoyed this "real solid liquid" since it was first sold in 1950.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Toy (Recreational artifact)

Date Made

circa 1962

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2001.170.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Cardboard
Plastic

Dimensions

Height: 4.75 in
Width: 6.75 in

Inscriptions

on front of package: NOTHING ELSE IS / SILLY PUTTY / THE REAL SOLID LIQUID
Silly Putty, circa 1962