Mid-20th Century "Speedy" Alka-Seltzer Figure

Appraised on: June 20, 1998

Appraised in: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Appraised by: Noel Barrett

Category: Collectibles

Episode Info: Roadshow Favorites (#813)

Originally Aired: April 26, 2004

IMAGE: 1 of 1  

Appraisal Video: (1:45)

APPRAISER: So, tell me, where did you find Speedy here?

GUEST: Well, I was working at a bakery in Los Angeles in 1969 and my supervisor told me to throw all the junk out of the attic that was in the bakery. So I threw all the stuff out in a dumpster with the exception of Speedy. I thought he was kind of cute and thought I'd take him home.

APPRAISER: So you took him home in 1969 and kept him there.

GUEST: And when I moved back to Wisconsin, he came along with me.

APPRAISER: Uh-huh. Now, I understand you've done a little bit of research trying to figure out the value.

GUEST: The only Alka-Seltzer figures I saw were about six inches high and they were about $150. I don't have a clue as to what something this big would be worth.

APPRAISER: What you have here is an absolutely wonderful advertising figure. What's happening now, the speed at which characters... or advertising campaigns change make characters like Speedy-- who really comes from the 1950s, '55, '60-- even that more quickly nostalgic and valuable. You're right, the little, small figures are the ones you see all the time, and they are worth $300 to $400, $500, depending on the condition. This is a wonderful piece. What’s nice about it is it's made out of latex, which is damaged, but it can be restored and repaired because it is reinforced with fiberglass. I've never seen this particular size before and it is absolutely astounding. I would expect that a modern collector today would be thrilled to pay $4,000 to $5,000 for this incredible Speedy Alka-Seltzer.

GUEST: Well, he's as good as gone.

APPRAISER: What's that?

GUEST: He's as good as gone. (both laughing)