General Antiques and Collectibles Spring Auction
Lot 131:
Description
C-17713
c. 1920s-1930s; A.C. Gilbert Company – New Haven, CT Boxed set of mechanical wire puzzles marketed under the "Puzzle Parties" line by A.C. Gilbert. The illustrated lid depicts a family gathered around a table solving puzzles, with whimsical graphics of various disentanglement challenges framing the border. Inside, a selection of metal wire puzzles and novelties-including forms like loops, heart plates, and the "Phantom Card Trick" (No. 80)-remain mounted on their original green presentation board. Produced by the A.C. Gilbert Company, best known for inventing the Erector Set, the firm expanded into educational and recreational toys that encouraged hands-on learning and amusement. Their puzzle sets reflected both the era’s fascination with brain teasers and Gilbert’s broader mission to blend entertainment with mechanical ingenuity. This boxed example embodies the company’s interwar-era design, combining clever play with sturdy construction.
Wear consistent with age, including light scuffing to the box edges and mild oxidation to metal pieces, but contents remain complete and displayable.
9.25" W x 6.75" D (box)
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