Wizard - Wizard of Oz - Par-T-Mask - Einson Freeman Co. Paper Mask (1939)

This remarkable paper mask represents the Wizard himself from the 1939 MGM classic The Wizard of Oz, one of the most beloved films in American cinema. Produced by Einson Freeman Co. as part of their “Par-T-Mask” line, it was issued under license in direct conjunction with the film’s release, making it not only an advertising premium but also a true Hollywood tie-in collectible from the year of the movie’s debut.

The mask captures the jovial yet slightly mysterious likeness of the Wizard character, complete with top hat and broad grin. Distributed in 1939 through promotions and special events, these masks were intended to generate excitement for the film among children, who could “become” one of the characters from the Land of Oz. Other characters from the set included Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion — but the Wizard himself is among the hardest to find, as he was less frequently chosen or saved compared to the more famous Oz characters.

Today, surviving examples of any Wizard of Oz masks from 1939 are exceedingly scarce. Many were worn, torn, and discarded after the movie’s initial run, making intact examples with original strings highly desirable. This mask represents a crossover collectible — appealing to fans of cinema history, advertising ephemera, and Golden Age Hollywood memorabilia alike.

Date: 1939 – year of the MGM film release
Maker: Einson Freeman Co., “Par-T-Mask” line
Tie-in: The Wizard of Oz (Loews/MGM release)
Size: approx. 7.5" x 9.5"
Rarity: Rare – fewer Wizard masks survive compared to other characters in the set.