Topsy Turnsey - Tip-Top Bread Company Promotional Paper Mask (1950) - Australia

This ingenious and whimsical “Topsy Turnsey” mask was issued in 1950 by the Tip-Top Bread Company of Australia as a grocery store premium. What makes this piece especially unique is its two-in-one design: when worn one way, it shows a wide-eyed, smiling character—but when flipped upside down, the features transform into a completely different face.

Such optical novelty designs were rare in advertising giveaways, making “Topsy Turnsey” stand out among Tip-Top’s series of postwar Halloween and promotional masks. It reflects the playful creativity of mid-century advertising, when companies went beyond standard giveaways and embraced clever illusions to capture a child’s imagination and keep parents loyal to the brand.

Historical Significance:

Issued in 1950, part of Tip-Top’s innovative marketing push in Australia.

Features a “flip-face” double illusion, doubling the play value.

Lithographed in striking black and red ink, with bold cartoon styling.

Among the scarcer Tip-Top issues, due to its fragile paper and novelty nature.

Details:

Date: 1950
Maker: Tip-Top Bread Company (Australia)
Promotion: Grocery store premium / advertising giveaway
Size: approx. 6 ½" x 10"
Medium: Lithographed paperboard