An ultra-rare wartime treasure created by Walt Disney has been uncovered at an Antiques Roadshow event in Portslade, East Sussex. The red vintage Mickey Mouse gas mask was designed for young children during World War II, with the intention of making a frightening experience feel more familiar.
Stored at the bottom of a wardrobe for more than 80 years, the mask belonged to a war child who kept it throughout his life. Dating to approximately 1941, it was intended for children aged between two and five. Manufactured in England by Happynak, a company also known for producing Disney-themed sand buckets, the mask was specifically styled after the popular Disney character.
The mask was brought to the roadshow by the daughter of a man born in 1940, who was issued the mask by the Government and wore it from the age of two until the end of the war in 1945. It was only rediscovered recently following his death, when his daughter was clearing the family home. The original box bears a pencil inscription, 'Gas Mask', written by the owner as a child.
Measuring approximately eight inches tall, the mask features a flexible rubber head covering, plastic eye lenses housed in metal rims, fabric-covered elastic head straps, and a metal filter base. It remains in its original cardboard box with a carrying strap, and also includes an original instruction leaflet and a separate carrying canister, both of which are considered scarce among collectors.
WeBuyVintage specialist and TV antiques expert Ishy Khan, who inspected the item, said: "The piece stands as an evocative reminder of the lengths taken to protect children during wartime, illustrating how authorities and manufacturers sought to soften fear through reassuring, child-friendly design. Surviving examples are extremely rare, so it was a surprise to see this brought into the roadshow."
Khan added: "Interest in these unusual wartime artefacts remains strong among collectors, highlighting the rarity and enduring fascination surrounding this distinctive piece of World War 2 history. I have given it a conservative estimate of £30-£60 but its rarity could easily push the price up."
