In the 1950s, science kits were very popular among young people interested in exploring the world of science. However, one of these, the ” Gilbert Atomic Power Laboratory “, was noted as the most dangerous toy in history due to the disturbing inclusion of radioactive materials .
Designed by Alfred Carlton Gilbert, the same inventor behind the famous Erector Set, this kit quickly gained notoriety for the risks associated with its radioactive contents.
What was included in the “world’s most dangerous toy”?
The kit contained several items designed to teach about radioactivity , albeit in an approach that seems incredibly risky today. Among its components were samples of radioactive minerals such as carnotite, autunite, torbernite and uraninite , which allowed children to conduct experiments related to radioactivity. In addition, the set included a cloud chamber, a spinthariscope and an electroscope, devices that allowed young scientists to observe alpha particles and measure radioactivity in real time.
The most striking thing about this set was its practical approach to teaching nuclear science . Through the ” Gilbert Handbook of Atomic Energy ” and the ” Uranium Prospecting ” guide, children learned about uranium and other radioactive elements, while exposing themselves (minimally) to the effects of radiation .
The value and controversy of the kit
Although considered an educational toy at the time, the Atomic Energy Lab quickly sparked controversy due to the risks associated with radiation exposure. In 2006, Radar Magazine included it on its list of “The 10 Most Dangerous Toys of All Time” , noting the presence of real uranium and other radioactive materials inside.
This is what the Gilbert Atomic Energy Laboratory radioactive kit looked like. Source: Atlas Obscura
Despite safety warnings from the manufacturer that the risk of exposure was “minimal,” the kit was pulled from the market shortly after its release , largely due to government restrictions related to radioactive material.
A collector’s item
Today, the Gilbert Atomic Energy Laboratory has become an extremely rare and sought-after piece of equipment for collectors. This kit, which included real uranium and devices for measuring radioactivity, was only available from 1950 to 1951 and it is estimated that fewer than 5,000 units were produced due to its high price and government restrictions on radioactive materials.
The kit is currently up for auction , ending December 11 at RR Auction , with a starting price of over $4,000, where collectors are scrambling to get their hands on one of the few available examples. In 2020, IEEE Spectrum published a detailed review of the set , contextualizing its place in the history of scientific kits and the safety concerns that arose around it.
Despite its dangers, Gilbert’s kit is considered a testament to a time when advances in nuclear science were a fascinating subject, if not always understood by the general public.
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Source and photos: RR Auction
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