Radioactive relic: The auction of the gilbert U‑238 set
The Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Laboratory set is referred to as the "most dangerous toy in the world," according to the Interesting Engineering portal. The set has just been put up for auction, which will last until December 12. This is a truly unique toy that is now very rare and sought after by collectors. Before it was withdrawn, fewer than 5,000 copies were sold.
In the 1950s, when atomic energy was a novelty, the Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Laboratory set hit the market as an educational toy for young scientists. Created by Alfred Carlton Gilbert, the maker of the iconic Erector Set (a toy allowing the construction of various objects), the set featured actual uranium samples and tools for observing alpha particles and measuring radiation levels. Despite its educational intent, the set was quickly withdrawn due to safety concerns.
A toy with radioactive elements
This toy, now over 70 years old, contains a range of elements designed to introduce users to nuclear energy. To that end, the creators included a chamber for observing alpha particles moving at a speed of 19,000 kilometres per second, a spinthariscope displaying the result of radioactive decay, and an electroscope for measuring the radioactivity of the carnotite, autunite, torbernite, and uraninite included in the set.
Today, the Gilbert U-238 set is considered extremely rare. It was only produced in the years 1950 and 1951, and fewer than 5,000 copies were sold in total. The set is not only exceptionally rare but also very dangerous.
Set up for auction
Interesting Engineering explains that the Gilbert U-238 set essentially features radiation at a "minimal amount, roughly equal to the daily UV radiation exposure from the Sun," provided the radioactive samples are not removed from their containers (as per the warnings in the instructions).
Recall that the production of this set was halted in 1951. The manufacturer cited "government restrictions" and "difficulties in accessing materials" at the time. The toy from the '50s has been put up for sale on the RR Auction website. The auction ends on December 12, while the price on the day of publication of this material is 4,400 dollars. The end time for the auction is set for 11:00 PM Eastern Time.
