Chester Gump (The Gumps) - Listerine Toothpaste (Par-T-Mask) Promotional Advertising Mask (1930s)

$75.00

An authentic 1930s lithographed advertising mask featuring Chester Gump, the mischievous nephew from The Gumps comic strip created by Sidney (Sid) Smith. Produced as part of a Listerine Toothpaste promotional campaign, this “Par-T-Mask” was printed by Einson-Freeman Co. Inc., one of the foremost lithographers of the period.

Masks like these were handed out as novelty premiums, combining early 20th-century pop culture with consumer advertising. They represent one of the most creative crossovers of Depression-era marketing, where household products aligned themselves with nationally beloved comic characters.

Date: 1930s

Character: Chester Gump (from The Gumps)

Creator: Sidney Smith (Famous Artists Syndicate)

Publisher/Printer: Einson-Freeman Co. Inc.

Material: Litho-printed cardstock

Size: 8 inches by 9 inches

Condition: Original vintage mask, excellent color retention with Listerine advertising copy on the reverse.

Historical Note:
The Gumps was a cultural phenomenon, with its characters widely recognized across America. Chester, the youthful and playful figure, brought humor and energy to the strip — making him a natural choice for promotional tie-ins. Today, these masks are rarely found, especially in complete sets with Andy and Minerva.