The Quirky World of PEZ Dispensers

PEZ first appeared in the 1930s, originally designed as a mint candy to help steer servicemen away from smoking. Manufactured by an Austrian company, the first PEZ dispensers were simple tin creations. As production shifted to the United States, the dispensers evolved, becoming colourful holders for candy, and their iconic character designs began to emerge.

These early PEZ dispensers, often referred to as “soft heads” due to the material used, are now highly prized among collectors. Some of the rarest figures—like a peculiar hippo or an Austrian man—have sold for over $1,000 each. But it’s not just famous characters that hold value; some of the most sought-after dispensers are of figures many may not recognize.

Early models, often made from non-biodegradable plastic and featuring fun (yet sometimes dangerous) additions like whistle tops and glow-in-the-dark parts, are now more suited for display than practical use. Whether it’s nostalgia or rarity that attracts collectors, PEZ dispensers have cemented their place as a fun and quirky piece of candy history.