This extremely rare item by Gropper Mfg. Co. is from 1937 and 3 different sized sets were produced (all are shown in Hake's Price Guide To Character Toys). All are rare and among the most sought after Buck Rogers items. This is the middle of the 3 sizes, box is 11.5x13.75x1.25" deep. Lid features great scene of Buck, Wilma and Dr. Huer performing chemistry experiments. Side panels feature different images including Buck and Wilma flying and firing rocket pistols, spaceships, chemistry equipment, etc. Box lid has moderate dust soiling, scattered edge wear including surface paper rubs. Bottom side panel has 1" split with neat glue repair. Lid o/w remains tight. VG. Set is nearly complete and pieces are attached to illustrated box insert that features Buck, Wilma, Dr. Huer, spaceship, scientific equipment along with 2 boys conducting experiments. Insert has moderate dust soiling and aging, some small moisture spots. VG/Fine. Set is nearly complete, missing just the instruction booklet and envelope containing sodium thiosulphate. The nicest features of this set are a set of eight 2" tall wood canisters with wrap-around paper labels, each has same image of Buck Rogers. Each has notation of different chemical contents. Each still contains contents which include such things as sulphur, tannic acid, sodium ferro cyanide, etc. Four have complete labels. Three are missing some or all of the label from the removable lid, not affecting Buck art. One is missing most of the label featuring Buck. Other contents include an envelope of "blue litmus," 4 glass test tubes (one still has original chemical contents but has cracks and is held together with tape), spoon and measuring device. While the set does show wear from use along with aging, aside from the noted defects contents remain fine for display. This rarely seen item features great design and superb graphics. From the Tomart Archives and comes with COA signed by Tom Tumbusch & Ted Hake.