Chief Big Eagle - Wheaties Cereal mask (1940s-50s) - backside

The “Chief Big Eagle” mask was issued during the 1940s–50s as part of Wheaties’ long-running series of cut-out premiums printed directly on cereal box backs. Designed in bold colors with a feathered headdress, stoic eyes, and strong features, it reflects the mid-century fascination with “Western” and “frontier” imagery that dominated children’s entertainment at the time.

These masks were marketed as “Fun Masks” to encourage children to cut out the back panels and play pretend. Because of this, very few examples remain intact today—most were cut up and discarded after short use.

Measures: 11 x 11.5 inches
Date: 1940s–1950s
Origin: Wheaties cereal backside premium

Rarity: Chief Big Eagle is less common than mainstream characters like Harold Teen or Firefang the Tiger but turns up more frequently than ultra-rare figures such as Teddy the Bear or Iron Jaw. Its larger-than-average size and striking presence make it a standout piece.