As a kid, it was fun collecting these PEZ dispensers and finding different ones with famous character heads. After you fill them up with PEZ candy, you left up the head and the candy comes out.
PEZ candy was invented in Austria as a breath mint in 1927. The name PEZ comes from the German word for peppermint, “pfefferminz,” taking the first, middle and last letter. The first dispenser looked like a cigarette lighter and was used as a means to encourage people to quit smoking. In the late 50s, Mickey Mouse was among one of the early dispensers that had character heads. Now I’m not a die-hard collector of PEZ, but there are some enthusiasts who have decorated entire rooms in their home with PEZ dispensers! :)
@taffy - Thanks Taffy! The Mickey and the Garfield are my favorites!
@gilbertwood - I just have 10 of them. Used to have a few more but their heads fell off. :O
@paulaw - Thanks Paula!! I think kids love the popular character because you can play with them and they hold CANDY! :D
@gigiflower - I know right! It was fun walking into the store and trying to find a cool character.
@ladygator - Thank you Nancy! Something about those heads, you just gotta love 'em!
@joemuli - I exPEZ my gratitude for your nice comment Joey! Thanks :)
@tahoemb - Thank you Mary Beth! I've always loved the chubby cheeks on this Mickey PEZ so had to do it!