Of course, this was not the only purpose for having small advertising objects. Many advertising items were handed out to get the company name into the field, to encourage a customer to return to the shop, or as a genuine token of thanks. The variety of items that can still be found is staggering. Many handouts were utilitarian as well. There were pins, pens, sewing kits, banks, tape measures, and ashtrays, just to name a few.
Some companies continue the tradition today.
Enjoy the sampling of silent salesman who have helped to increase the sale of vacuum cleaners throughout the years. They are plastic and designed to each hold a roll of quarters. Pushing the toggle switch on the top of the cleaner enables the owner to open the cleaner's front door and retrieve the coins. Users are encouraged to save up for the latest model. This set of cards is from 1950.