Overview
A classic lithographed steel vacuum bottle featuring characters from Gerry Anderson's 'Supermarionation' sci-fi series. This 10oz thermos depicts Colonel Steve Zodiac and Dr. Venus against a backdrop of the XL5 spacecraft and Space City.
Preliminary identification
Fireball XL5 Metal Thermos, 1964
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Released in 1964, this thermos captured the height of the Space Race and the 'Supermarionation' puppet craze. It brought the futuristic world of the 21st century directly into mid-century school cafeterias. The artwork was co-designed by comic legend Wally Wood.
Maker / Origin
King-Seeley Thermos Co. revolutionized the lunchroom in 1953 with the first fully lithographed steel lunch box. By the 1960s, they were the premier name in vacuum insulation, partnering with major TV studios to turn everyday utility items into vibrant pop-culture icons.
Condition & Value
The lithography appears bright with some visible surface wear and minor scuffing consistent with age. The red plastic cup lid is present, which is a plus. The presence of rust on the bottom rim or a rattling sound (indicating a broken glass liner) would significantly decrease the value.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.