Miss Sunbeam - Sunbeam Bread Promotional Mask (1950s)

This “Miss Sunbeam” paper mask was issued as a promotional premium by Sunbeam Bread, one of America’s most beloved postwar bread brands. The mask depicts the iconic Sunbeam girl — blonde curls, pink bow, and bright smile — an advertising character introduced in the 1940s who became synonymous with wholesome family living and mealtime tradition.

On the reverse, the mask carries Sunbeam’s famous tagline “Bread with a Bonus” and an invitation from “Miss Sunbeam” herself to “Let’s Be Friends.” Distributed through neighborhood bakeries and grocery promotions, these masks were inexpensive giveaways meant to win customer loyalty while providing children with playful keepsakes.

Unlike mass-market cereal box masks, Sunbeam’s advertising premiums were produced in smaller runs and were highly regional, tied to bakery franchises across the U.S.

Measures: approx. 8 x 10 inches
Date: c. 1950s
Origin: Sunbeam Bread bakery promotion

Rarity: Advertising ephemera tied to bread brands is far less common than cereal premiums.