Hawk Eye (The Indian Brave) - Kelloggs Corn Flakes mask (1953) - backside

Original vintage cut-out mask called “Hawk Eye,” issued on the back panel of a 1953 Kellogg’s Corn Flakes box. Measures approx. 7.5" × 12".

This mask was part of Kellogg’s early 1950s promotion where children could cut out and wear character faces directly from cereal boxes. “Hawk Eye” was presented as a Native American “brave,” reflecting the mid-century fascination with Western and frontier themes that dominated American film, radio, and television at the time.

While Kellogg’s intended these masks as playful premiums, it’s important to note that the imagery reflects dated cultural stereotypes. Today, collectors value pieces like this not for accuracy of representation, but as historical advertising artifacts that show how marketing once tapped into popular culture.

Because these masks were typically cut, worn, and discarded by children, surviving examples like this remain uncommon.

Historical Significance:

Issued by Kellogg’s Corn Flakes in 1953.

Part of the mask-back promotion that also included pirates, witches, and other characters.

Reflects the mid-century American obsession with Westerns and “cowboys and Indians.”

A surviving artifact of cereal box advertising from the golden age of premiums.