8 best vintage lunchboxes
Vintage lunchboxes are collectible and nostalgic items that have a rich history in American culture. These lunchboxes are typically made of metal or plastic and were originally designed to carry lunches for school or work. Here's what you need to know about vintage lunchboxes:
Historical Significance: Vintage lunchboxes have been a part of American lunch culture since the late 19th century. The first metal lunchboxes were introduced in the 1950s, often featuring popular characters from television, movies, and comics. They quickly became a significant part of American pop culture.
Iconic Designs: Vintage lunchboxes are well-known for their iconic designs. Many featured beloved characters such as Mickey Mouse, The Beatles, Superman, The Lone Ranger, and many others. These designs often reflect the popular culture of the time.
Materials: Early vintage lunchboxes were made from metal, typically steel, with lithographed artwork on the exterior. Later, during the 1980s, plastic lunchboxes became more common. Metal lunchboxes are more highly sought after by collectors due to their nostalgic appeal.
Thermos Compatibility: Most vintage lunchboxes came with a matching thermos flask, allowing the user to carry a hot or cold beverage along with their lunch. Collectors often seek out lunchboxes with their original thermos, as the set is more valuable.
Collectibility: Vintage lunchboxes have gained a significant following among collectors. Some rare and well-preserved examples can command high prices in the collector's market. The condition, rarity, and design of the lunchbox are all factors that influence its value.
Manufacturers: Several companies, such as Aladdin Industries, King-Seeley Thermos, and Ohio Art, were prominent manufacturers of vintage lunchboxes. Each company had its own distinctive designs and styles.
Care and Preservation: Vintage lunchboxes require careful handling and storage to maintain their condition. Cleaning with mild soap and water and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity is essential to preserve their artwork and overall quality.
Cultural Significance: These lunchboxes offer a glimpse into the cultural interests and preferences of the eras in which they were produced.They can serve as time capsules of the past and are often cherished for their nostalgic value.
Replicas and Reissues: Some vintage lunchbox designs have been reissued or reproduced for nostalgia enthusiasts. These reissues may lack the historical value of the originals but can still be appealing for collectors and enthusiasts.
In summary, vintage lunchboxes are cherished collectibles that provide a nostalgic connection to the past, particularly in American culture. They showcase the evolution of lunchbox design and the enduring appeal of pop culture icons. Collectors and enthusiasts value these items for their historical and cultural significance, making them sought-after items in the world of collectibles.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best vintage lunchboxes on the market
AQUARIUS Mr Rogers Gen 2 Fun Box, Multicolor
AQUARIUS
Product description
Show the world your loving nature with this wonderfully colorful fun box featuring none other than Mr. Rogers. Perfect for storage or just letting the world know you're a fan!
- Measures 8.625 x 6.75 x 3.875
- Embossed front cover
- Beefy latch
- 100% officially licensed merchandise
User questions & answers
| Question: | Can someone open the lunch box to see the inside? Does it have a thermos |
| Answer: | The box does not include a thermos. It is a fun metal storage container with an embossed lid. |
| Question: | What material is this made of? Is it a tin box |
| Answer: | It is a metal lunch box. |
Metal Tin Lunch Box for Kids - White Blank Design for DIY Options - Vintage
Fun Express
Product description
Decorate this DIY Lunch Box Tin with magnets foam shapes glitter…it’s your choice. Decked out in white this DIY lunchbox is sized just right for school desks and is perfect for holding pencils erasers notepads or small stationery items. Decorate a Do It Yourself Lunch Box Tin for your child and send them off to school in style. 7 7/8 x 6 x 3 1/8 Metal.
- Decorate this DIY Lunch Box Tin with magnets, foam shapes, glitter…it’s your choice.
- Decked out in white, this Do-It-Yourself lunchbox is sized just right for school desks and is perfect for holding pencils, erasers, notepads or small stationery items.
- Size: 7 7/8" x 6" x 3 1/8"
- Material: Tin Metal.
- White and blank, for a vintage retro look.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does the lid stay open or does it lay flat |
| Answer: | Had to adjust mounting |
| Question: | Is the inside of the lid magnetic |
| Answer: | Can’t say exact weight, but it’s a good amount. Mine are filled with pretty heavy items. Super sturdy. |
| Question: | Can you write on this with dry erase markers |
| Answer: | While I can’t tell you the exact weight, it’s a good amount. I have one filled with hardback books, and the other two with semi heavy toys. Very sturdy. |
THE MUNSTERS LUNCHBOX VINTAGE ART 2" x 3" Fridge MAGNET Refrigerator lunch box nostalgic retro
Product description
ALL of our new 2"x3" magnets are made in the USA with high quality metal backs, plastic and Mylar. All of the images in our magnets are laser sharp. Our magnets are thick and we only use strong magnets to unsure a strong bond to fridge, took box, locker or another other metal surface. Christmas is coming great STOCKING STUFFERS.
- One 2 inch by 3 inch fridge magnet nostalgic
- Strong magnet.
- Certain to bring back memories of EMERGENCY TV and beloved Lunchbox
Vandor Beatles Yellow Submarine Vintage Shaped Tin Metal Lunchbox Tote with Handle, Large
Vandor
Product description
Whether it’s holding lunch or storing gear, Vandor’s fun retro tin totes are sure to please. Designed with all your favorite iconic characters, they are also a must for the collector. 3.5 x 7.5 x 9 Inches.
- Embossed character design on front of retro metal lunchbox tote
- Perfect Beatles Yellow Submarine Vintage gift for fans, collectors or kids
- Secure metal latch closure
- Collapsible plastic handle
- Retro lunchbox is great for toting and storing lunches, snacks, supplies, music and more
Smithsonian - Rosie The Riveter - We Can Do It! - Large Tin Tote Lunch Box - 61160
Product description
Whether it's holding lunch or storing gear, Vandor's fun retro tin totes are sure to please. Designed with all your favorite iconic characters, they are also a must for the collector.
User questions & answers
| Question: | what are the dimensions of the actual lunchbox? are they the same as the package dimensions |
| Answer: | The actual dimensions vary with each lunch box, depending on the manufacturer. the package dimensions will always be larger for shipping purposes. |
| Question: | Why does the dimensions say 11x7 x |
| Answer: | This lunch box is 11x7 inches long and 4x9 inches wide. Think of it as a regular sheet of copy paper, only just a tad bit smaller. I hope this helps. |
| Question: | x7 x 4.9 is the dimension of the lunch box |
| Answer: | This is 8X4X9 Thanks |
Aquarius Fender Amp Large Gen 2 Tin Storage Fun Box,Multi-colored,3"
AQUARIUS
Product description
This super cute and perfect rendition of the classic Fender Deluxe Reverb Amp will certainly bring a smile to almost everyone that sees it. With its 3D embossed front cover, this fun box is a winner! It measures 8 x 7.5 x 4.
- Measures 8" x 6.75" x 4"
- Designed for storage (not for food)
- Fun colorful graphics
- Tin box is hinged with a plastic handle
- Officially licensed
User questions & answers
| Question: | why does it say "not for food" storage |
| Answer: | I think it means you should not put food in it. But, seriously, it's a prop. There is no insulation so it won't preserve food with an ice pack or anything. It's for musicians. |
Insulated Waxed Canvas Lunch Bag by ASEBBO 10L Lunch Box for Women, Men with Genuine Leather Handle and Strong Buckle-Closure to Keep Your Food Cool, Lunch Tote, Adjustable Strap (Brown 2.0 IMPROVED)
ASEBBO
- 2.0 IMPROVED VERSION with no reaction when in contact with water for the new spacious & stylish lunch bags. An excellent GIFT with adjustable & detachable 59” strap ideal for commuters. The waterproof insulated lunch bag has a nice adjustable leather buckle-closure to make sure everything stays inside - we reinforced the stitches for increasing durability. This adult lunch bag features a DOUBLE LAYER handle with exterior genuine leather layer - comfy for carrying.
- THE STURDY WAXED CANVAS is the perfect indicative of a high quality material. Please consider leaving the lunch box closed 24h with a food container inside in order to regain its shape. This Reusable Insulated Lunch Bag for Women & Men keeps your meal cool or warm throughout the day! Compact yet roomy, the 11.2"x9.5"x7.3" ASEBBO waxed canvas lunch bag allows you to take ample-sized lunch and snacks to work or school daily. Our bag is durable, it holds up to 11 lbs without being bulky.
- EXTRA THICK ALUMINIUM FILM INSULATION to keep your lunch cold enough when there isn’t any room left in the office fridge. There is a DOUBLE LAYER of 12oz waxed canvas for this insulated lunch tote before you can get to the aluminum film - all these so you can preserve the temperature inside for more than 4 hours. The ASEBBO cooler lunch box is EASY TO CLEAN if there is a spill.
- VERSATILE & STYLISH LARGE LUNGE BAG for Women & Men with Classy Design for those who don’t like to label their food. Once you show up with the ASEBBO lunch tote bag, everyone will know it’s yours! Eco-friendly insulated lunch cooler so you can avoid the old paper bags. This lunch box with strap features an exterior pocket with reliable zipper as well, making it a MULTI-USE bag for your daily routine. Put your phone, wallet and keys in there, then close the zipper to keep them safe inside.
- YOU CAN'T LOOSE! We stand 110% beyond our products and we offer the longest guarantee on the market! Your investment is covered 1-YEAR after the purchase! Please write us if you are unsatisfied with your ASEBBO lunch bag and we will cover a full return!!
Product features
KEEP YOUR GOODS IN A SAFE PLACE!
The ASEBBO lunch bag can be used as a stand-alone bag.
When going out in the city, after the long hours at the office, or during your lunch break, take the ASEBBO lunch bag with you! The exterior pocket will keep your keys, phone or wallet in a safe place.
WEAR THE BAG THE WAY YOU WANT
Depending on your personal preference or style, choose the best way for you when wearing the ASEBBO lunch bag. You can use the handle or the shoulder strap, depending on your needs and style.
LET IT RAIN!
No need to worry if you spill drinks or your bag gets wet. We have added a new technology to the exterior wax layer so that the wax does not react when in contact with liquids.
WHY THE DOUBLE LAYERED HEADER?
We decided to make the header of the bag double layered so that the food inside can be kept for an extended period of time cold or warm. Also, by folding the double-layered header, you will benefit of extra insulation.
DON'T BELIEVE US YOU CAN CARRY 11 POUNDS+ WITH OUR BAG? TRY IT YOURSELF!
Due to the ingenious combination between the used materials and the technology, your ASEBBO lunch bag remains sturdy and will not lose it's shape and form, even if you carry more than 11 pounds of food and liquids with you. We challenge you to test it yourself!
MAKE HER A SPECIAL GIFT!
THIS BAG WOULD MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER. HERE'S HOW:
- LONG LIFESPAN: We only used HIGH QUALITThis bag would make your life easier. Here’s how:Y 12 oz waxed canvas to create a lunch cooler bag that you can use for years to come.
- WATERPROOF: Our insulated lunch box was made of waxed canvas, also knows as “duck canvas” because of its waterproof characteristics. It will keep your food safe on those rainy days.
- LARGE CAPACITY: The 11.2"x9.5"x7.3". The ASEBBO lunch box for adults provides enough room for a whole day meal + some snacks.
- AVOID MULTIPLE BAGS: Thanks to the Exterior Pocket with ZIPPER, this lunch bag can hold your phone, wallet, and even keys inside the pocket so you don’t need to carry extra bags with you.
- EASY TO CARRY: This lunch box with shoulder strap comes with a genuine leather handle too, giving you multiple ways to carry it.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about food spilling all over the place - the thick aluminum insulation inside lets you clean the bag without having to wash it out. If you want to wash the waxed canvas you can use cold water and dishwashing soap to spot clean. Run a gentle rinse cycle with cold water and gentle soap. Always wash the bag manually.
ENJOY IT FOR LIFE!
The heavy duty 16 oz extra-thick waxed canvas material and the reinforced stitching, make this waxed canvas lunch bag last for a lifetime. Forget the soggy paper and plastic bags, save money and buy a lunch box to enjoy for years to come!
VINTAGE DESIGN, OPTIMAL USE
The zipperless top-quality lunch bag has a simple, highly functional design that gives you a special vintage feel. Easy to fold, it's an optimal lunch bag to be worn in your backpack or laptop bag.
EASY TO CLEAN
Our lunch tote is water-repellent, so it will remain clean and durable if drinks are spilled on it. When dirty, simply wash the bag manually with a bit of soap and a smooth cloth and let it dry.
100% BIODEGRADABLE &VEGAN
Our odorless environment-friendly lunch sack that holds for years, is free from any synthetic and toxic materials. Be kind to our planet and be an example for the others! Choose a product that supports the environment.
Mickey and Minnie Lunch Bag Castle Watching Fireworks Purple Lunch Box for Work Outdoor Activities
WOMFUI
Product description
★Be the Mater of Your Own Life
You can easily take control of your life by getting to decide what you have for lunch as the first step.
★Flexible and Easy to Carry
Effortless to carry with detachable and removable adjustable shoulder straps and handle.
★Long-Term Preservation
The inner lining is 100% food-grade, so you can place your delicious snacks in the bag without any fear! The thicker material can keep hot food hot and cold food cold for hours.
★Two Side Mesh Ppockets
Durable Elasticized Mesh Pockets on both sides, fit water bottle, a small compact umbrella, and other items.
★Perfect for One Meal
you can take it with to the office, tourism, school, or pack a healthy snack for your family or have a delightful Sunday picnic.
★Purchase Tips
If there is any problem, just contact with us, we will handle with it immediately.
- 【Top-grade Material & Process】Upgraded material material, tear resistant, wear-resistant, mild waterproof, dirt-proof. Leak resistant liner, easy to clean.
- 【Large Capacity】10.2"L x 6.7"W x 9.1"H. This insulated lunch bag is features with a main compartment, it could perfectly fit your lunch box, sandwichs, salad, snacks, drinks and fruits in one bag.In addition, two side mesh pockets perfect for soda cans, water bottles and umbrella.
- 【Easy to carry】This lunch bag is equipped with shoulder strap, which can be carried or slanted, suitable for families with children maternity pets going out, shopping, traveling, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- 【Excellent insulation performance】Eco-friendly aluminum foil makes the food fresh for hours. Made of BPA free materials, it's non-toxic and safe for your food.
- 【Multi-Use】Perfect for women and men to take food or drinks for BBQs, work, school, picnic, fishing, party, beach, travel and other outdoor activites. Stylish and vintage design make it can be used in many occasion as you prefer. if there is any problem, just contact us, we will handle with it immediately.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Can the shoulder strap be removed?? is it convenient |
| Answer: | Yes, it can be single shouldered & hand-held, very nice! |
| Question: | Does it have insulation |
| Answer: | Yes! It has amazing insulation!! |
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