Lots of diecast collectors chase after vintage model cars still in the package, but sometimes you see an item that goes beyond that. Hereâs an eBay listing for a shipping box for 1972 Kenner SSP Smash-Up Derby sets for $450 plus shipping.
Wait, whatâs that? The box is empty? Yep, this is a surviving box that once contained half a dozen sets of Kennersâ classic demolition derby toy, minus the contents. Itâs in remarkably good shape, and itâs unlikely many of these survived the last half century plus. Which begs a few questionsâŚ
⢠How the heck did this survive intact?
⢠Was it used to store something all these years?
⢠How do you display something like this?
⢠Who could possibly want this for that price (plus a hefty $77 for shipping just due to the overall dimensions)?
The survival of this box is strange. These were used to get the items in bulk to stores, who would cut them open and crush the cardboard as soon as it was empty.
It would seem most likely that something else has been in this box for decades, but if that were the case, there should be marker writing stating âAunt Millieâs Hummel collectionâ or âFront Bedroomâ or some such. Aside from a few stray markings, there is none of that. (It is marked with the address of a K-Mart in New York, however.)
As far as displaying it, only the most hardcore collector of these cars would even consider buying this. In such a case, they might have a basement full of the many models and accessories from this toy line on display, so whatâs one more, even if it is likely the largest item in the collection?
As for who would want this, well, have you ever met a diecast collector? They can get a bit obsessive, and having a truly one-of-a-kind item like this might put their collection over the top in the eyes of their peers.
Imagine if this were a box from Mattel for Hot Wheels of that era. Surely more than a few collectors would want to get their hands on this, which begs another question⌠Are there modern collectors who buy cases of Hot Wheels and keep the shipping boxes for their collection or to resell? Are there collectors who buy a box just to keep it sealed to sell later as a time capsule?
The idea of collecting items in their packaging is popular for many reasons. We looked at that topic in way more detail than you might expect about a year ago. But this packaging for packaging goes to another level.
If you happen to collect old SSP cars, check out the Buy it Now listing here. And if you have any answers to the questions, please hit us up in the comments section.
