Dusty (The Bum) - Kelloggs Corn Flakes mask (1954) - backside

Original vintage cut-out mask known as “Dusty (The Bum),” issued on the back of a 1954 Kellogg’s Corn Flakes box. Measures approx. 7.5" × 11".

Part of Kellogg’s popular 1950s mask-back promotion, “Dusty” reflects a very different cultural moment. Depicted with a ragged hat, cigar, and exaggerated features, the character was presented as a comic tramp — a type that was widely used in mid-century advertising and humor but would be considered inappropriate today.

Despite the dated stereotype, Dusty is a notable piece of advertising history, capturing how cereal companies created playful, larger-than-life characters to spark kids’ imaginations at the breakfast table. Like the other masks in the series, it was meant to be cut out and worn, which means few survived in presentable form.

Historical Significance:

Issued by Kellogg’s Corn Flakes in 1954.

One of several character masks that included witches, pirates, and devils.

Reflects a “hobo/clown” character type common in 20th-century popular culture.

Surviving intact panels are uncommon, as most were cut and discarded by children.