J.C. Penney Company - Saint Nicholas Santa Claus mask (1940-50s)

This rare promotional Santa Claus mask was distributed as a holiday giveaway by the J.C. Penney Company during the 1940s–50s. Bearing the printed phrase “Compliments of the J.C. Penney Company” along the lower edge, it was an advertising premium designed to spread holiday cheer while promoting the store’s family-friendly image.

Unlike many seasonal paper masks of the time, this example survives unpunched, making it particularly desirable for collectors.

Most of these masks were worn once and discarded, making intact survivors uncommon today—especially those tied directly to a national retailer’s holiday campaign.

Date: 1940s–50s

Origin: J.C. Penney Company holiday giveaway

Size: 13 x 9 inches

Rarity: Scarce, especially unpunched advertising examples