PEZ® Frequently Asked Questions

[1] General Information

1.1. What does PEZ stand for?

PEZ comes from the first, middle, and last letters of the German word for peppermint, pfefferminz: P E Z

1.2. Who invented PEZ?

Eduard Haas III, a baker and confectioner, invented PEZ. Haas was avidly anti-smoking and reportedly invented and marketed the mints as an alternative to cigarettes. As David Welch puts it in Collecting Pez (see [7-3]): "Ed. Haas III has been described by several interviewees as a health nut. His marketing strategy defined PEZ Candy as an alternative to smoking as well as a way to overcome the unpleasant after effects of smoking and of certain foods."

1.3. How long has PEZ been around?

PEZ candy was created in 1927 in Vienna, Austria. It was first sold in small metal tins and was available only in Peppermint flavor. The PEZ dispenser was invented in 1948 and initially resembled a modern-day plastic disposable cigarette lighter. PEZ candies and dispensers have been marketed in America since 1952.

1.4. Tell me more about the history of PEZ.

PEZ was first marketed as a compressed peppermint breath mint in Austria. It was initially targeted for adult smokers. Perhaps because of this, conventional wisdom has it that the first Pez dispenser (1948) was designed to look like a disposable cigarette lighter. Such lighters, however, were not introduced until the early 1970's. More likely, as pointed out by David Welch (see section [7-3]), the design of the first Pez dispenser was driven by the physical characteristics of a Pez tablet:

I interviewed people who were around in the early days and no one EVER mentioned this (association with cigarette lighters). Where this came from---who knows? Likely someone made the jump from current day collector observations (regulars look like BIC lighters) to injecting it into past history. Read the Allina interview in my second book. The dispenser was made as a dispenser for a candy that already existed---size was set. There was no effort to imitate a lighter or pacify smokers into thinking it was one.

After being introduced to America in 1952 to disappointing sales figures, market research with children led to the introduction of fruit flavors and character heads featuring licensed characters. Today, Pez dispensers topped with novel heads are sold worldwide.

1.5. In what countries are PEZ available?

Pez Intl's site (http://www.pez.at/) mentions that Pez is sold in over 80 countries. They list 79 countries along with the primary distributors for each country. The list includes countries from Europe (40), Asia (26), America (6), Africa (6) and Australia (1). Here's a partial - but growing - list of confirmed countries:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, USA.

1.6. What is a "PEZHead"?

It was once thought that a PEZHead was simply "one who collects PEZ". This is not entirely accurate...

You start out with a few dispensers, gathered from holiday gifts, birthday packages, or a quick sugar fix while you're in the grocery store checkout lane. A PEZ here...a PEZ there... before long you realize that you have several, line them up on a shelf, and wonder if there are others to be had. You find yourself seeking them out during your weekly errands. On a Saturday, you drive to a store some distance from your house because a friend comments that they 'saw something like a dinosaur dispenser' and you have to see it for yourself.

While at the store hunting down this elusive 'dinosaur', you meet someone else at the display rack. They invite you to a gathering where you can meet other people who have shelves of PEZ dispensers. Others. There are more of your kind. You've found them.

You discover the PEZHeads e-mail list. Your life has changed. You may not have realized it completely yet, but it has. You are now mainlining PEZ information directly into your head.

You complete your collection of domestically available dispensers and start on the ones available in other countries by trading with complete strangers you meet over the Internet.

You discover flea markets and antique shops. Your eyes quickly learn to discern the shape of a PEZ from an entire box of happy meal toys. Your average price per PEZ increases from $1 to $15 to $30 as you start to purchase older PEZ.

You find that you have two versions of the Pezzy Dance O'Joy in your repertoire; one that is restrained, low-impact, and only slightly noticeable by other shoppers, for performing in public places, and the full-blown leaping, spinning, frenzied arm gesturing, version for when you are completely out of sight of the antique shop where you just found a Snow White dispenser for under fifty dollars.

You talk to people and let everyone you've ever met know you collect PEZ (hoping to score that shoe box that someone's Mom has in a closet somewhere). You now dream of PEZ dispensers and hope to one day ride in a car you saw pictured in a magazine that has 1400 PEZ dispensers adhered to it.

You no longer care who sees you dance.

Your family and friends begin to think about an intervention because you're flying to Minneapolis, Cleveland, St. Louis, California, or Connecticut to meet others that call themselves PEZHeads.

One day you find yourself answering more questions about PEZ than you ask. Other collectors begin to seek you out for information. They consider you a "crusty old collector" and give you a nickname that has "PEZ" in it.

Newbies look upon your collection with wild eyes and wonder how you did it.

You look and wonder the same thing.

You are a PEZHead.

Composed by: Amy, PezQueen of the Universe, Criff the PezDawg and Brian, PEZGandi

1.7. What do MIB, MOC and MOMC mean?

These are standard acronyms used to refer to the condition of a collectible:

• MIB = Mint in Bag
• MIP = Mint in Package
• MOC = Mint on Card
• MOMC = Mint on Mint Card

Note that MOC does not mean that the card is perfect, but only that the dispenser is still on the card (unopened).

1.8. What are some other commonly used acronyms?

• AA - African American [ referring to the characters such as Bride, Groom, etc that have recently become available ]
• DBP - Deutsche Bundes Patent
• F - Footed
• FEB - Fat Eared Bunny
• FBS - Full Body Santa
• FBST - Full Body Space Trooper
• FS - For Sale
• FT - For Trade
• GITD - Glow in the Dark
• JITB - Jack In The Box
• JL - Johnny Lightning
• MAF - Make A Face
• MMM - Merry Melody Maker / Merry Music Maker
• NF - No Feet
• NPC - No Pez Content [ used to indicate an off-topic mailing list message ]
• NRFP - Never Removed From Package
• ObPEZ - Obligatory PEZ related comment in a PEZheads e-mail post
• OSS - Old Store Stock
• PDOJ - PEZzy Dance O'Joy [ a celebratory dance of acquisition ]
• SW - Star Wars
• TRU - Toys 'R' Us [ retail store chain ]
• TMNT - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
• WF - With Feet

A listing of other commonly encountered (non-PEZ) email acronyms may be found at http://www.spam-site.com/email-acronyms.shtml

[2] The Company - PEZ Candy, Inc.

2.1. Can I buy products directly from the PEZ factory?

While PEZ has sold directly from their website in the past, as of this writing (July 2010) the store on pez.com is not available. The website is undergoing some redesign and the store is likely to reopen at some time in the future. The first mail-order inserts started appearing packaged with current dispensers in 1996. The online store launched in 1998.

If you wish to find out the name of the PEZ distributor in your area, call PEZ Candy, Inc. at (203) 795-0531. You may be able to purchase PEZ in bulk from your local distributor. This may require a resale tax number or other qualifications, depending on local laws.

2.2. Does PEZ sell any reproductions of original dispensers?

Yes. In 1998, PEZ issued the first reproduction item: The Psychedelic Eye. It was available in both the white and black versions, on four different stem colors. This was followed up soon after by the Psychedelic Flower. Pez has since brought out a number of other reproductions, including a Bride and Groom, a 50th anniversary Golden Glow, and a series of "Retro Classic" regulars. See [2-8] for where to obtain order forms on-line.

2.3. Can I have a tour of the PEZ Candy factory?

The company's response is that since they are an FDA regulated food plant, they are not permitted to give tours. However, it has been pointed out that the FDA also regulates wineries, breweries, jelly bean factories, etc, many of which will happily give tours. Regardless of the reason, PEZ Candy does not give tours.

2.4. Who owns PEZ Candy, Inc.?

According to filings brought in a lawsuit against the Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia in June 2009: "PEZ Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of PEZ Inter Holding AG, a Swiss corporation." As of 2005 Joseph Vittoria is the president and chief executive officer of PEZ Candy, Inc.

2.5. Can I buy stock in PEZ?

PEZ Candy is a privately held company. No stock is sold.

2.6. Where is the company located?

The first U.S. PEZ factory was located in New York and imported the candy from Europe. The United States division of PEZ Candy moved to Orange, Connecticut in 1972. They have remained there since, and in 2005 began work on a significant expansion of the facility.

2.7. Tell more about the history of the company.

PEZ Candy, Inc. was originally Haas Food Mfg. Corp. This didn't change until the 1970's. Their motto used to be "A Treat to Eat in a Puppet That's Neat!"

2.8. Is PEZ Candy, Inc. on the Internet?

PEZ Candy, Inc.'s official website was launched in Fall 1998. It can be found at: http://www.pez.com. There you will find a welcome from the company, legal copyright information, information about licensed PEZ products, and a partial listing of dispensers that the company produced.

The European Counterpart to PEZ, Inc. is PEZ, Intl. Their website can be found at http://www.pez.at/

2.9. Why does/did PEZ Candy, Inc. charge so much for shipping and handling?

While PEZ is not currently selling directly to consumers in the past they had used an off-site fulfillment house to fill orders placed using either their 800# or the web site. This company reportedly charged PEZ, Inc. a fixed rate per offer to compensate for the customer service department, their employees' time to receive the order, process the order, pack the order, and ship the order. PEZ, Inc. simply passed that cost on to the consumer.

[3] PEZ Candy

3.1. Where can I buy Cherry flavor PEZ?

As of early 2006, Cherry flavored PEZ is once again available in the US. It had been discontinued in the US during the early 1990's and was replaced by Grape flavor PEZ. It was discontinued in the US because PEZ Candy thought that children would not want a candy that tasted similar to cough medicine. It was, and still is, readily available in Canada, Europe and elsewhere despite the US changes.

3.2. What new flavors are coming out next?

While it is generally the policy of PEZ Candy not to discuss current or future marketing plans it has been revealed that Strawberry-Vanilla and Raspberry-Lemon are planned for release in Spring 2011. The most recent flavor to be made available in the US is Chocolate.

3.3. What's in PEZ Candy?

As listed on the wrapper of the standard flavors, the ingredients are:
Sugar, Corn Syrup, Adipic Acid, Hydrogenated Palm Kernel & Palm Oils And Soybean Oil, Mono & Diglycerides, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Artificial Colors (including FD&C Red 3, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 2 - depending on which flavor). Cola also contains Sodium Bicarb., Color.

The Sourz Candy has the following ingredients:
Sugar, Corn Syrup, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Hydrogenated Cottonseed , Palm Kernel, Palm & Soybean Oil, Mono & Diglycerides, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Artificial Colors, FD & C Yellow 5, Blue 1, Red 40, Green3.

The sugar-free candy has the following ingredients:
Sorbitol, Coated Citric Acid, Magnesium Stearate, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Ascorbic Acid, Artificial Colors (including F&C Red 40 Lake, Yellow 5 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake - depending on which flavor).

3.4. Is PEZ Candy good for you?

The nutritional info is:
Serving size: 1 roll (9 g)
Calories: 35
% Daily Values per Serving (based on a 2,000 calorie diet):
Total Fat (0 g): 0%
Sodium (0 mg): 0%
Total Carbohydrates (9 g): 3%
Sugars 9 g
Protein: 0 g

The sugar-free candy has the following nutritional info:
Serving size: 1 roll (8 g)
Calories: 30
% Daily Values per Serving (based on a 2,000 calorie diet):
Total Fat (0 g): 0%
Sodium (0 mg): 0%
Total Carbohydrates (9 g): 3%
Sugars 0 g
Sorbitol 8 g
Protein (0 g): 0%
Vitamin C: 35%

3.5. What flavors are available?

In the US - Assorted Fruit, Cherry, Raspberry, Grape, Lemon, Orange, Strawberry, Sour Pineapple, Sour Raspberry, Sour Watermelon, Sour Apple, Cola, Chocolate and Peppermint. Other parts of the world may offer different flavors  - for example, some parts of Europe offer Apple-Cinnamon and Japan has a stronger Peppermint flavor.

3.6. Are there any sugar-free flavors?

Yes, PEZ Candy makes sugar-free Orange, Lemon, and Strawberry flavors although these may be difficult to find in stores.

3.7. Where is PEZ Candy made?

All flavors available in the US are made in Orange, Connecticut where the candy is also packaged with the dispensers. Candy available to most other parts of the world is made and packaged in Austria.

3.8. What flavors have been discontinued?

There have been many flavors over the years. Many of these were never available in the United States:

• Anise (tastes like black licorice)
• Chlorophyll
• Coffee
• Eucalyptus
• Flower
• Hot Cinnamon
• Licorice
• Lime
• Menthol
• Yoghurt
• Wild Cherry

3.9. What are Kosher PEZ?

Some common dispensers have cards marked "Kosher". It signifies that the candy inside the package was prepared in accordance with Jewish dietary laws. They are always the assorted flavor packs. The Kosher carded PEZ are made by PEZ Candy, Inc. especially for Paskesz Candy Company.

3.10. Are there really PEZ vitamins?

In some Eastern European countries like Hungary, PEZ manufactures four different flavors of vitamins. They are shaped like the familiar PEZ bricks but sold in small cardboard boxes instead of in a roll. The flavors are Izo PEZ, Tutti-Fruity, Lemon Vitamin-C, and Fruit. They taste similar to "Flintstone" vitamins.

3.11. Is there a Comprehensive PEZ Candy Pack Listing?

Yes. Brad Emalfarb and Dave Hood worked many months to bring us the identification guide for PEZ candy packs. It includes a detailed listing of known candy packs along with a numbering system, checklist and approximate values. It's available for download as a PDF file at http://www.pezlist.com/PezCandyPackIdentificationGuide.pdf

[4] PEZ Dispensers - Covered in three sections

4.1.1. Where can I find PEZ dispensers and Candy refills?

PEZ Candy products (both dispensers and refills) are sold nationally by K-Mart, Walmart, Walgreen's, Target Stores, Eckerd Drug, Family Dollar Stores, and Dollar General Stores, amongst many others. Also try your local supermarket, drugstore, and gift and novelty stores. Popular places to find PEZ in Canada include The Bay, Sears, Eaton's, Zellers, Walmart, K-Mart, Toys R Us, major drug stores and supermarkets. You can also purchase from a number of online dealers and websites.

4.1.2. I saw an Elvis Presley PEZ dispenser in the movie "The Client", Where can I buy one? How about Pee Wee Herman, Spock, Michael Jackson, KISS, Barbie, and the Stay-Puft marshmallow man?

The Elvis dispenser was a model used for the movie, not an actual dispenser. In June 2007 PEZ released a set of three Elvis dispensers which are now available at nationwide retail. The other dispensers mentioned above are all fakes. Many people have created their own PEZ by hand sculpting clay, or using the heads from small dolls, and mounting them on an ordinary dispenser base. These are all commonly referred to as "Fantasy PEZ". Often they do not actually dispense candy, but are used purely for display. Some are even complete with professional-looking packaging. By visiting the web pages listed in [7-5] you will find some PEZHeads who create custom "Fantasy" PEZ.

4.1.3. What new dispensers are coming out next?

It is not the policy of PEZ Candy to discuss their current or future marketing plans. However, several rumors and pre-release announcements of things to come are circulating. You can find out about all things to come by subscribing to the newsletter (question [7-9]), Internet mailing list, or Web Bulletin Board (question [7-6]).

4.1.4. How many PEZ dispensers are currently available?

The number varies at different times of the year. Holiday collections are only available at certain times, and different dispensers are available in the US, Canada and Europe. See question [4-1-5] for a list of dispensers currently being offered.

4.1.5. Is there a complete list of PEZ dispensers?

The best and most up-to-date list we've found is maintained by Bryan Ball on the TroPEZ website: http://www.tro-pez.com/tro-pez/master.htm

4.1.6. Where are PEZ Candy dispensers made?

The dispensers are manufactured and imported from Austria, Czech Republic, China, and Hungary. For US distribution, the dispensers are packaged with the candy in Orange, Connecticut. The Slovenia packaging plant closed in the fall of 1996.

4.1.7. Can anybody explain the PEZ-a-Saurs?

PEZ-a-Saurs were marketed as dinosaurs in Canada. They are often referred to by different names than their American counterparts.

American Names	Description	Canadian Names
Fly-Saur	purple and red face	Brutus (son)
He-Saur	purple with yellow mouth	Chaos (baby)
I-Saur	red and yellow face	Titus (dad)
She-Saur	light blue face	Venezia (mom)

4.1.8. What are the different trucks?

Twenty-five different trucks have been made. There are five series - A, B, C, D and E. The A and B series have three trucks each, the C series has ten trucks, the D series has four trucks, and the E series has five.

The A series trucks have four wheels.

The B series trucks have 6 wheels, the rear fenders dip between the wheels, and the wheels turn.

The C series trucks have six wheels, the rear fenders are straight, and the wheels turn.

The D series have six wheels, the rear fenders are straight, and the wheels do not turn. There are also different truck cab styles. The D series trucks are marked with either R1, R2, R3, or R4 on the cab. They can also be differentiated by the length of the cab roof. In order of shortest cab roof to longest cab roof, they are R1, R2, R3, and R4. For the D series, there are 36 different trucks if you are collecting color combinations. Four cabs, three stem colors (red, green, blue), and four cab colors (red, green, blue, and yellow). They never put the same color cab and stem together on the D series trucks. A, B, and C series trucks are found on 3.9 patent stems. D series trucks can be found on 3.9 or 4.9 patent stems.

The E series trucks or "Rigs" are available in 5 different styles, with two different color schemes each for a total of ten trucks. Two of these styles were available with a "Walgreen's" logo and color scheme and were available in 2005 exclusively through the Walgreen's chain of pharmacies in the US. Four of the styles were available with a "Walmart" logo and color scheme and were available exclusively at Walmart locations. Finally, two additional E-series trucks were available for a short time in Slovenia as a premium with a brand of soda called Cockta. These are currently hard to find and will fetch a price premium over the other trucks.

4.1.9. Which Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle is which?

The turtles can be distinguished by the color of their bandana. There are two versions of each of the four turtles. One has an angry face and the other has a happy face.

TMNT	bandana color
Donatello	purple
Leonardo	teal
Michaelangelo	orange
Raphael	red

4.1.10. What are the names of the Nintendo dispensers?

Mario - The man
Koopa Troopa - Is orange
Diddy Kong - The monkey
Yoshi - The green dinosaur

Pokemon Series:

Pikachu - Yellow with long ears
Meowth - Beige cat
Koffing - Purple, round head
Psyduck - Orangish platypus-looking
Mew - Pink rodent

4.1.11. What is a Power PEZ Dispenser?

The Power PEZ Dispenser is made by Cap Toys. It is a circular dispenser that is 4 inches in diameter and motorized. The candies are loaded singularly and then dispensed by pressing a button which causes the PEZ to rotate toward a gate where they are ejected. There are three different colors available: orange, green, and purple. A variation was later released which has a belt clip on the back of the dispenser. These were released in 1996 primarily through Toys R Us stores, but are no longer available.

4.1.12. How old is a particular dispenser?

You can get a vague idea of the age of a dispenser by looking at the patent number:

• Box Patent, pre-1950's
• DBP Patent 818.829, issued in 1950
  
• Patent 2.620.061 1st series issued in 1952
• Patent 3.410.455 2nd series issued in 1968
• Patent 3.845.882 3rd series issued in 1974
• Patent 3.942.683 4th series issued in 1976
• Patent 4.966.305 5th series issued in 1990
• Patent 5.984.285 6th series issued in 1999

Patent numbers are commonly referred to by only the first two digits, so a 4.9 dispenser is one from the 5th series.

Dispensers changed from "footless" to "footed" in 1987, with some exceptions. The re-release of the "Regulars" as well as all trucks (both vintage and modern) and the Valentine Hearts are without feet. In general, if you have a 3.9 dispenser with feet, it was made after 1987. If a 3.9 dispenser is without feet, it was made before 1987. (Of course some of these were made during 1987, but that's difficult to determine.)

4.1.13. Which one's Jerry and which one's Tuffy?

Jerry has a brown face (the mouse from Tom & Jerry). Tuffy has a gray face. Both Jerry and Tuffy come in a painted face version and a multiple-piece version. The painted face version has a solid head with the features painted on, while the multiple-piece face has the facial features as separate pieces.

4.1.14. How many different Coach Whistles are there?

The Coach Whistle B, released in 2005 is available in six colors: light blue, dark blue, dark pink, yellow, orange and lime green. A limited number of Coach Whistles B's were also made in gold, silver, crystal green and crystal red.

There are seven varieties of the previous style Coach Whistle A:

Stem Color	Whistle Colors (loop half/non-loop half)
Blue	White Loop/Red
Green	Yellow Loop/Red
Green	Red Loop/Yellow
Lavender	Yellow Loop/Orange
Lavender	Orange Loop/Yellow
Red	Yellow Loop/Green
Red	Green Loop/Yellow

When discussing the various color combinations of the whistles, "loop color" refers to the color of the loop at the top of the whistle. The other color is for the non-loop half. This is much easier than trying to use "red/white" and describe which is the "right" and "left" color.

For other color combination questions, refer to question [4-1-17].

4.1.15. How can I get a BubbleMan dispenser?

While the Bubbleman was originally an extremely limited test-piece, it is now available directly from PEZ Candy, Inc. See section [2-1] for more information on ordering from PEZ Candy.

4.1.16. What is the tallest dispenser? Widest? Heaviest?

As of 2010 the tallest is the 2000 version of Mickey Mouse from the 50th Anniversary set, measured at 5.133 inches. The tallest no-foot PEZ is the Knight which is exactly 5 inches. Thor is the widest at about 2 3/8 inches. The heaviest is the E-series tanker truck which weighs 35 grams.

4.1.17. What are all the color combinations of xxxxx?

The most complete resource would be The Master PEZ Guide, originally compiled by James Day, and later maintained by Bob and Faye Tipton. It can be found at http://www.pezworld.com/guide/. You might also try searching on http://www.mypezql.com, which is kept up to date, but is also incomplete for some dispensers.

4.1.18. What is a Mono-Regular?

A Mono-Regular is a revised Regular dispenser that, instead of having a white inner sleeve, has an inner sleeve that matches the stem color. Cliff Lee brought this variation to the attention of the PEZHead e-mail list during 1998 and coined the name, "Monochromatic Regular", which has been casually abbreviated to Mono-Regular.

4.1.19. What is a Candy Hander?

The Candy Handers developed by CAP toys are motorized dispensers for various candies. The two Candy Handers released in 1998 featured Warner Brothers' Wile E. Coyote and Marvin the Martian. When a button is pushed, the character, who holds a shovel-shaped implement, turns to an opening in the dispenser to retrieve the waiting candy brick. In Wile's case, the opening is in a mountain tunnel; in Marvin's case, the opening is in his space ship. A third PEZ Candy Hander, Jar-Jar Binks (from the Star Wars movie Episode I) was released in late 1999.

4.1.20. Why are some PEZ called "Glew Variations"?

There was once a very enterprising PEZhead known as Steve Glew. He was a member of the PEZheads community and realized that the community was very discouraged that the PEZ companies weren't readily releasing new dispensers to expand their collections. He realized that he would have a good thing if he could get new dispensers to the community. He set up a contact inside the PEZ, Intl. factories and had color variations made of currently available PEZ dispensers such as the C-Series Trucks, Santa, Witch, Snowman, and Psychedelic Eye. He outlayed tons of cash to have these made per his color specifications. He then got them to the States and sold them to the PEZ community. Some time later he discovered that PEZ, Inc. wanted in on the custom-color market when PEZ, Inc. took the similar color variations and sold them to collectors via the PEZ, Inc. website labeled "Misfits".

You can tell if your custom-color variation is a legitimate GLEW variation by checking the inner sleeve for Steve's signature. Further authentication can be found on the stems of the Santa, Witch, Snowman and Lion. The stems on these Glew variations will not have a "Made in xxxxxx" country. The Neon Psychedelic Eye PEZ will have "Made in Hungary" on the stems.

4.1.21. Is there a complete list of mini dispensers with pictures?

You can find an up-to-date list (as of this writing) at http://pingu.minipez.net/.

4.2.1. Where can I buy a "Bride" and "Groom" dispenser?

The Bride and Groom dispenser were discontinued during the late 70's. A few hundred were imported from Austria for a specific wedding in 1978, and occasionally surface for sale. In 2001, PEZ, Inc. reissued these to be made available in the new mail order form. They are revised molds and are on 4.9 stems.

4.2.2. Where can I buy or see old PEZ dispensers?

There are several collectors and antique/collectible dealers who sell PEZ dispensers that are out of production. Some of the older models sell for hundreds - even thousands - of dollars.

To buy vintage PEZ, we recommend two sources:

• PEZ Conventions
• eBay

The best place to see vintage and rare dispensers is at a PEZ convention. There is almost always a special display case containing PEZ that you've "only heard about in myths and legends".

There is also a PEZ exhibit sponsored by Computer Spectrum. It is viewable on the World-Wide-Web, but you can also visit in person. Burlingame is in the San Francisco Bay area, admission is free and they also have PEZ and PEZ related items for sale.

Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia
214 California Drive
Burlingame, California 94010 USA
Gary & Nancy Yarborough Doss
http://www.burlingamepezmuseum.com/
pez@spectrumnet.com

Also many fellow PEZHeads also have extras to sell or trade. Join the mailing list or one of the web message boards (see section [7-6]) to find people with dispensers for sale.

4.2.3. Should I open the packages or leave them in the bag/on the card?

The answer to this question is completely up to you. If you want to retain the highest resale value, then don't open them (but also keep them locked away in a humidity controlled environment away from UV radiation...). If you collect them just for fun then it's your own decision. Many collectors have all the current dispensers open and on display. If you plan on selling your dispensers in the future, you may want to consider keeping them in the original packaging. Special issued dispensers, such as the Stand By Me movie promotional item which are only distinguished by the packaging must be in the bag to retain any value.

4.2.4. What is the highest price ever paid for a single PEZ dispenser?

A transparent 1950s Space Gun sold on eBay in December 2005 for $11,211.11. It was later discovered to be a well-made fake. Many legitimate dispensers have been sold for over $1000.

4.2.5. How will I ever collect all these variations?

How many PEZ to collect is completely up to the individual. Trying to collect all the variations of every dispenser is quite a task. For example there were 56 TMNT in the original release!! (4 Turtles x 2 faces each {smile or grimace} x 7 body colors {yellow, orange, black, purple, green, red, and teal blue}). For this reason, many collectors only collect dispensers that vary from the neck up. A different color base may not be considered a "variation" by all collectors, but a Smurf with a different color hat or a Charlie Brown with a different mouth would be. Again, it's up to you how many to collect, but the "from the neck up" rule is generally accepted.

4.2.6. Is my black Batman worth $75-125 as listed in Richard Geary's book?

As with any collectible, pricing varies. Current price guides are produced each year and are generally considered to the most up-to-date source of pricing information. See [7-4] for details on ordering.

At the time of Geary's first book, the black Batman was not in production and were thus highly prized. The blue Batman has remained in production. Then in 1995, PEZ began making the black Batman dispenser again. Older black Batman dispensers are still worth more than the 1995 issues. To determine if your black Batman is an older version, check the patent numbers. The older version has a 3.9 patent number (see question [4-1-12]) and came on yellow, black, or blue stems. The new one has a 4.9 patent number and was issued on a black stem only. Both the blue and black issues have recently been discontinued and replaced by a revised dark blue batman with a larger head.

4.2.7. I have a defective dispenser (from the factory). Is it worth anything?

Maybe. It depends on the defect and who you're trying to sell it to. Many people have found packaging defects (missing face pieces, missing candy, dispensers without the painted faces, even two dispensers in one cellophane bag) but they are not really "worth" more because they are most likely unique and NOT the result of a production run flaw. Dispensers turned around backwards on cards are not defects. This sometimes happens during shipping. Some people are interested in collecting defects and might pay more, others might not even want it in their collection. Factory defects that are inherent to a run of PEZ are a different matter. So if you like it, keep it.

4.2.8. What is the best way to clean my PEZ dispensers?

[ WARNING: Try these methods at your own risk. They have been recommended by fellow PEZHeads, but be careful with those collection treasures! ]

A toothbrush and warm water with a mild dish washing detergent works well. Others have also used toothpaste, rubbing alcohol, and WD-40 on unpainted areas. To get rid of sticky residue, try vegetable oil and a paper towel then use soap and water to get rid of the oil residue. Cotton q-tips are good for scrubbing small areas. If you plan to take the dispenser apart, be sure to practice on a common dispenser until you can disassemble and reassemble a dispenser without breakage. Also be sure to dry the dispenser completely after cleaning to prevent the spring and pin from rusting.

4.2.9. How should I display my dispensers?

Be creative. Some people make nice display racks from hardwood or acrylic, others make bleachers that fit in a cardboard PEZ counter display box. People have also acquired toothbrush and watch displays from drugstores that work nicely. You can use pegboard and hooks for carded dispensers or just use push pins on a wall. Many like the idea of nailing straight pins into the wall and placing opened dispensers on them so the pin goes through the back of the neck. The pin is nearly invisible and the dispenser appears to be floating in air. Some folks use the white plastic expando-shelves that are for spice racks, readily available at your local Wal-Mart. Some other professionally made display sources are:

Showtime Displays!
Phone (800) 842-7026
Fax (708) 442-6507
E-mail Dick Melanson bigcitypro@aol.com
http://www.showtimedisplays.com

John Thompson's Acrylic Display Racks
4122 Irving Ave. N.
Minneapolis, MN 55412
(612) 588-0406
JThomp3511@aol.com

When it comes to displaying candy packs, many collectors have found that small plastic cases made to hold 25 baseball cards work very well. Each one will hold 5 standard-size packs of candy. You can purchase these from many baseball/collectibles stores as well as online.

4.2.10. Where can I buy feet to help my older dispensers stand up better?

John & Linda Gliha sell shoes which will accommodate any non-footed dispenser ever made. Contact them at glidog@aol.com.

Some of the PEZ sources mentioned in [4-2-2] also sell shoes.

4.2.11. Should I insure my PEZ collection?

The decision is a personal one. How much have you invested in your collection? You need to decide if you would be able to easily replace your collection if you were to somehow lose it to theft, fire or flooding. The first step to insuring your PEZ collections, and any other collections you may have, would be to contact your insurance agent, assuming that you, or your family, already have homeowners, or renters insurance. Your collection may already be covered under these coverages, but you don't want to ask this question after you've already suffered a loss. You may not be happy with the answer.

Some prefer to have their PEZ insured as collectibles under their homeowner's or renter's insurance to a specific value they have estimated. If they were to request additional insurance (above and beyond that coverage) on the toys in their collection, it would cost an additional one-dollar per one hundred dollars in value. Insurance cost varies for different types of collectibles. You need to check with your insurance company for their specific costs.

It is vital to have a complete inventory of your collection in case you have an insurance claim for their loss. Record the type of dispenser, patent number, condition and your receipts of purchase. A photographic or video record of your dispensers would be very helpful to document your possessions. Close-up shots and full display shots should be taken. Keep in mind that a paper inventory and/or photograph records may not be enough to prove loss of valuable items. You must discuss with your agent their proof of loss requirements.

Current value at the time of your loss will need to be provided if you have a claim. Discuss with your insurance coverage how best to prove the items value. Copies of a recent price guide, auction prices and appraisals from an experienced dealer or collectors will be useful in determining the current market value.

Once you have your coverage and complete inventory, keep these records at a location away from where you keep your collection. Give a copy of your inventory to your insurance agent for their files. Put a copy in a safety deposit box if you have one. You may want to consider giving a copy to your attorney too.

Keep your inventory up-to-date. How often you update it will depend on how often you add new items to your collection.

Insurance coverage varies greatly state to state, so this advice is a general guideline to get you started. Speak with your insurance agent and ask them to assist you in insuring and documenting your collections.

One source for specialty insurance is Collectible Insurance Agency based in Westminster, MD. They can be reached by phone at (410) 876-8833 or on-line at http://www.collectinsure.com. They are a specialty insurance agency dealing with Collectibles only. This is a separate policy from your personal property coverage and requires additional premiums.

4.2.12. The packaging for the "Madagascar" series shows a penguin dispenser, but I can't find this one anywhere. Does it exist?

A prototype dispenser of "Skipper" the penguin was made, but was not initially released with the Madagascar set. He was eventually added to the distribution in 2009.

4.3.1. What does it mean for a dispenser to be "with feet" or "without feet"?

Most post-1987 dispensers have "feet" on the bottom of the stem. There is a small plastic lip around the bottom of the stem that has two "feet" in the front. These were added to aid the dispensers in standing up. Dispensers without feet are generally older than the versions with feet. A word of caution: Some recent releases (most notably the reissued Regulars) do not have feet, so do not use this to judge the age of a dispenser. Switching stems on a dispenser is quite easy to do.

4.3.2. What is the most popular dispenser?

According to PEZ, Santa and Mickey Mouse are the two biggest sellers of all time.

4.3.3. What does the "DBP" mark mean on some dispensers?

DBP stands for Deutsche Bundes Patent (German Council Patent, in English), which is the German equivalent of the American Patent number. This mark is found on some of the German/Austrian dispensers and usually comes with the patent number 818.829.

4.3.4. My dispenser says "Made in Jugoslavia". Is that a misprint?

No. Jugoslavia is just an alternate spelling for Yugoslavia.

4.3.5. What does "Club Med Face" mean?

This term is used often when describing variations of a particular dispenser. It means that the face is darker or "tanner" than the original. This is quite noticeable when looking at them side by side.

4.3.6. What does it mean to say "with plastic/metal spring"?

The spring that is being referred to is the spring in the head not the one in the stem. This spring returns the head to the upright position after it has been tilted to remove a PEZ candy. Older dispensers used metal springs, but the newer ones have plastic head springs.

4.3.7. What does it mean to say "with plastic/metal hinge pin"?

This refers to the pin that attaches the head to the stem. Older dispensers used a metal hinge pin, but newer ones use plastic hinge pins or two plastic nubs to keep the head attached.

4.3.8. What does it mean to say "without pin"?

This refers to the pin that attaches the head to the stem. Sometimes "with pin" is used to indicate that the hinge pin is visible from the outside. Similarly, "without pin" indicates that the hinge pin is not visible from the outside (but it's still there).

4.3.9. I've noticed some of my dispensers have this tab protruding from the back of the neck. What is it?

These tabs are often called "thumb tabs" on the PEZHeads mailing list because they were first thought to be a place for the thumb to assist in opening tall or oddly shaped heads. Actually, the factory added this tab to newer molds so the dispenser will lie down on its "back" without rolling over on its side when traveling on conveyor belts. The feet at the bottom and this new tab on the head keep the dispenser from rolling over on its side.

4.3.10. What does it mean to say a dispenser is "die-cut"?

Die-cut dispensers have a design cut in the side(s) of the stem instead of the usual raised PEZ logo. The cut-out section reveals the inner sleeve which is typically a different color than the stem. Dispensers are also referred to as having a die-cut face if the die-cutting process was used to create the holes in the dispenser head (ex. for the eyes or the mouth of a Snow White or Mickey Mouse).

4.3.11. What does the digit on the side of the dispenser mean? What are IMC's?

These are IMC's (injection mold codes). The numbers correspond to a particular country. Multiple countries per code are listed in chronological order. Note that some older dispensers may not have an IMC.

• 1 - Austria/Hungary/China
• 2 - Austria/Hong Kong
• 3 - Austria/Hungary
• 4 - Austria
• 5 - Yugoslavia/Slovenia
• 6 - Hong Kong/China
• 7 - Hong Kong/Austria
• 8 - Austria
• 9 - USA/Spain
• V - Yugoslavia

4.3.12. What's the story with this "Hecho en Mexico" stem? What about other countries?

Besides the usual China, Hungary, etc. stems there are several unusual country of origin markings that are quite rare. "Made in the USA" stems are somewhat common, but still quite collectible. More unusual are the "Hecho in Mexico" (with or with without an accent on the second "e") which is Spanish for "Made in Mexico". "Made in Spain", "INDUSTRIA BRASILEIRA" (or just "IND. BRASILEIRA") from Brazil, and "BREV. ITAL." from Italy are even more rare and will often command a significant price premium. A list of all known dispensers found on these stems has been assembled by Brian Trauman and the members of the PEZHeads email list, and is available from http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PEZheads/files/Lists, guides etc./.

[5] Other PEZ Collectibles

5.1. Are there any other PEZ items that I can buy?

Yes indeed. Items that are no longer in production and which may be difficult to find:

• FAO Schwartz limited edition "PEZ To Go" Briefcase ($29.99), which includes PEZ watch, clip-on, necklace, key ring, and bracelet. Also Bracelet available separately.
• PEZ Coin Banks (Peter PEZ, Cockatoo, Duck w/Flower, Pineapple)
• Change Dish (depicts Peter PEZ holding a Speedy Gonzales)
• Candy Shooter Target
• Clickers
• Clip-on
• Costumes (fit over the dispenser)
• Delivery Truck (steel Die-Cast scale model; a bank)
• Glasses
• Greeting Cards (Ambassador brand, Nostalgia Line, #175L0S950L)
• Holiday Dish
• Johnny Lightning Cars
• Masks
• Pentagon Stand (displays 6 dispensers)
• PEZ Trading Cards
• Puzzles (by Hallmark or Ceaco)
• Santa Ornament (from Hallmark, 1995)
• Secret Code Flasher
• Shopping Bags (picture of PEZ Stewardess on sides)
• Shelcore Cars
• Snowman Ornament (from Hallmark, 1996)
• Space Poster
• Tattoos
• Visor
• Yo-Yo

Currently available (some of these items are only available at retail in select countries):

• Balloons
• Beach Towel
• Blanket (aka PEZ Throw)
• Cell phone strap holders
• Coin Banks (Peter PEZ, Duck w/Flower, Cockatoo, Pineapple)
• Carlton Cards Santa & Snowman ornaments
• Clock (by Heartland Apparel)
• Cookie Jar
• Fuzzy Friends
• Jewelry
• Hats
• Head Wobblers
• Johnny Lightning Die-Cast Cars
• Keychains
• Magnets
• Mousepads
• MP3 player
• Mugs
• Notebooks
• Party Favors
• PEZ Phones
• PEZ Pops
• PEZ Trading Cards
• Psychedelic Eye watches
• Bride and Groom Snowglobe
• Salt and Pepper Shakers
• Shelcore Cars
• Soap bubbles
• Stickers, Sweatshirt
• T-shirts (many varieties)
• Toothbrushes

The PEZ Company recently issued licenses to several merchandisers, so expect to see many more PEZ products in the near future.

5.2. Where can I find the PEZ collectibles mentioned in question [5-1]?

For PEZ Mousepad: Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia 214 California Drive Burlingame, CA 94010 (415) 347-2301 http://www.spectrumnet.com/pez/

The other items listed are available from several sources, see [4-2-2].

5.3. I've heard of a Teddy Bear that dispenses PEZ. Does it exist?

This product is pictured on the back of some blister packs. The picture shows a stuffed teddy bear from Dream Castle that actually dispenses PEZ.

Here's the story: Dream Castle changed their name and were then acquired by another company. During the transition, production of the PEZ jewelry was stopped, but may resume. The teddy bear was never formally produced due to a technical problem. There is also a rumor that during product testing children were hesitant about having a bear that 'spit-up' candy.

Malibu Fun Stuffed, a division of Janex Corporation, was making 3 "Candy Pals" for Christmas 1996. The Candy Pals were stuffed 12" versions of a snowman, Santa and panda, each holding a dispenser identical to itself.

Fast forward to today, where PEZ has crossed over with Beanie-type Babies and has released a set of plush animals that dispense PEZ. The 4 bears are called "Fuzzy Friends" and were originally released in Summer, 2001. Additional sets have followed.

5.4. What are the PEZ Body Parts?

Right from the package, "Body Parts are amusing attachable parts, with which you can dress up your PEZ dispensers." These plastic pieces snap around the base of the dispenser. The arms move up and down and the hands are made to hold certain items. PEZ Body Parts are currently available in Canada and Europe. It is not known if they well be sold in the United States. There are several different sets of Body Parts: the "old" set, the "new" set, plus Easter and Christmas sets. There are also plans for Back to School, Airport, and Gas Station Body Part Playsets for European release. In addition, there are "two-pack" or "side-by-side" body parts. These have a dispenser and a separate body part on one (larger) card.

The "old" set was released in 1995 and consists of eight different costumes (All packs include 2 packs of candy):

• Tarzan - light flesh-colored with painted hairy chest; orange and black spotted loin cloth; knife; human feet
• Robin Hood - bow and arrow; light green shoes; light green tunic with dark green stitching
• Woman - red dress; blue purse; blue shoes; red necklace
• Maid - purple outfit with painted white lace; blue pitcher; purple shoes
• Nurse - white outfit; white shoes; blue first aid bag; Red Cross badge painted on outfit
• Hockey Player - red outfit with white and blue trim; red shoes; brown hockey stick
• Knight - silver armor; large sword
• Grim Reaper - skeleton with sickle

The "new" set was released in 1996 in Europe only and consists of six costumes. (All packs on European-style cards with 2 packs of candy):

• Robot/Spaceman - silver body; box wrench hands; 3-color space gun
• Convict - gray body with black stripes; ball and chain
• Caveman - flesh-colored body; painted on loin cloth; club
• Roman Gladiator - green body with plate armor; shield and spear
• Cavalry Officer - blue body with uniform markings; boots; bugle
• Cowgirl - red body with western markings; rope

The Christmas set includes the current Santa dispenser, Santa body, boots, six packs of candy, and a fold-out Christmas display.

The Easter set includes the revised Bugs Bunny on a red base, white feet, a gray body with a white painter's smock with blue and yellow splotches, white arms, a painter's palette, brush, six packs of candy, and a fold-out Easter scene.

In 1999 a couple of collectors discovered five more Body Parts. They were slated for release to Russia, but were stopped due to economic instability.

They are:

• Biker (Outlaw)
• Indian
• Sheriff
• General (Polizei)
• Soccer Player

5.5. Aren't there some other PEZ trucks? A bank?

There are two PEZ trucks that are NOT dispensers. The first one was produced by Scale Models, a division of ERTL. The truck is white and has decals on the side depicting a "fountain" of PEZ. This truck also functions as a bank. The second one is made by Ashland DieCast. It is yellow with lithographed PEZ wrappers on the sides. This was a limited edition run of 1260. The second truck does have what appears to be a coin slot in the bottom, but its arguable whether or not it is a bank. Additional metal trucks are scheduled for production in 2000. They can be found in toy stores and through direct mail offerings.

In 2000, M & J Variety released several different PEZ coin banks. They are about 13 inches tall, made of plastic and were made in likenesses of Peter PEZ, PEZ Cockatoo, PEZ Duck with Flower and PEZ Pineapple.

5.6. What are "Sea World PEZ" or "Shamu PEZ" items?

Sea World PEZ were specially packaged for distribution at Sea World. The card is printed with the Sea World logo and a photo of the item. They are made by Malibu Fun Stuffed. Many of them have Shamu's picture on them. There is a watch, keychain, bracelet, and clip-on. These items are no longer available new.

5.7. What are the different inserts available?

There have been several inserts available over the years. The ones listed below are the "Here's something for you to do" type that were white on one side and yellow on the other. [ This list may not be complete yet ]

• 3 different mazes
• 2 different space creatures
• 1 princess
• 1 drummer boy
• 1 girl pulling a cart

[6] Miscellaneous

6.1. How do I make a PEZ gun?

Matt Shook initially described this PEZ gun. The description has been greatly enhanced with the help of several PEZHeads.

The materials you need to make a PEZ gun are:

• A PEZ dispenser
• A spring from a ball-point pen
• Double sided tape
• A pair of needle-nosed pliers (or wire cutters)
• A package of PEZ (ammo)

Choose a dispenser that doesn't have a low neck (eg. a collar, Gonzo's bowtie, etc.) that might interfere with the projectile. Optionally, the double-sided tape can be wrapped around the small plastic piece that normally pushes the PEZ out of the dispenser. The tape serves to keep the spring around this plastic "pusher" piece, but may not be necessary depending on how well the spring fits.

The trick is to cut the spring to the correct length. The idea is that the spring is long enough to fit over the pusher piece and extend past the bottom of it so that when the head is tilted back it catches on the plastic of the inner sleeve. As the head is tilted back more, the spring bunches up and finally slips off the plastic of the inner sleeve, striking the end of the PEZ. Instead of the PEZ being pushed out by the plastic pusher, it is ejected by the spring on the pusher. The spring mush be short enough so the mechanism will reset itself when the head is returned to the normal position.

6.2. Personalized Heart Dispensers

You can modify the Valentine's Day Heart dispensers to make them personalized. First you need to remove the "Happy Valentine's Day" message. The two best ways to do this are to scrape them off with a razor blade or Exacto knife or sand them off with very fine steel wool (or a synthetic substitute). Be careful to minimize discoloration on the dispenser. This does take time if you're doing many dispensers. Others have had good results using a cleaner called "Barkeeper's Friend." Then create your own message on a clear adhesive label and apply it to the dispenser. Of course, if you choose to print your message on a white or colored label then there's no need to remove the existing message. These make great wedding gifts or favors!

6.3. Shipping Overseas

With widespread use of the Internet to communicate with fellow PEZHeads around the world, you may begin trading with those overseas. There are several ways to ship PEZ overseas. Go to your local post office and request publication 51, "International Postal Rates and Fees", or calculate the postage online at the USPS website. You may also want to compare rates from other shipping services such as UPS and Federal Express.

6.4. How can I remove PEZ from the card without damaging the card?

Use a razor blade or Exacto knife to remove the plastic bubble from the card. Cut away as much as possible without damaging the card. Remove the candy and dispenser. Place the card with the remaining glued plastic in the microwave. Turn the microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes (you'll have to experiment with your microwave to determine what time works best). Make sure the plastic is very loose before you attempt to remove it. It won't fall off by itself, but shouldn't require pulling. Be sure to remove the plastic before the glue cools and begins to set.

6.5. PEZ Collectors Database

Several enterprising PEZheads have written their own databases to track their collections. A few choices can be found at the following locations.

http://www.tro-pez.com/
This database for PEZ dispensers is a Stand-alone program, available for free downloads.

http://pezbase.beakerboy.com/
PEZBase is a web-based database for tracking your collection. Accounts are free.

Many other PezHeads use a database program such as Filemaker or Microsoft Access. This allows you to create fields that fit with the level of detail used in your collection.

[7] PEZ References and Resources

7.1. Can I write to the company? What will they send me?

Yes, you can write to the company at:
PEZ Candy, Inc.
35 Prindle Hill Road
Orange, CT 06477
Phone: (203) 795-0531

They do not personally respond to your questions. However, within a couple of weeks you should receive a packet including their FAQ (which is incorporated into this document), a PEZ dispenser list (which erroneously lists a Robin Super Friends dispenser with rubber head that was never made), a color brochure which shows displays of PEZ dispensers and candy, and a mail order form.

7.2. Are there any PEZ conventions?

There are several PEZ conventions held annually. You can find a listing of all North American PEZ Conventions as well as links to each at http://www.collectingpez.com/conventions.html

7.3. Are there any books on PEZ?

There are several:

"Warman's Pez Field Guide" by Shawn Peterson ($12.99, Krause Publications, 2004, ISBN 0873499069) is 510 pages and, according to the publisher, contains "hundreds of listings of the most collectible PEZ dispensers and rare variations, as well as the latest PEZ releases. A history of PEZ accompanies a vibrant illustrated glossary, with over 200 highly detailed, full-color photos."

"PEZ A Little Collectible Book" by Marie T. Morreale ($4.95, Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2002, ISBN 0740714430) is 80 pages and contains basic information and history about PEZ as a collectible along with color photos and some pricing information.

"Collectors Guide to PEZ: Identification and Price Guide" by Shawn Peterson ($24.95, Krause, 2001, 2003 & 2008 updated edition ISBN 0896896358) is 256 pages and contains over 1000 full color photos of dispensers, variations, advertising, and display materials, along with pricing and historical information.

"Pez (Warman's Companion)" by Shawn Peterson ($17.99, Krause, 2007, ISBN 0896894665) is 270 pages and contains over 600 pictures.

"PEZ Collectibles" by Richard Geary ($19.95, Schiffer, 1994, 1997, 1999 updated edition ISBN 0764307134) is 112 pages and contains full color photos of dispensers, displays, and other PEZ collectibles. The introduction contains a short history of PEZ, but this book is mostly a pictorial guide. The captions give the name of the dispenser and its estimated value. The book was revised in 1997 and in 1999 with updated prices and additional pictures.

"More PEZ for Collectors" by Richard Geary ($14.95, Schiffer Publishing Limited, 1995, 1998 updated edition ISBN 0764304534) is much like Geary's earlier book "PEZ Collectibles". There are lots of pictures and very little text other than short captions for the pictures. This book focuses more on the packaging of PEZ than on the dispensers themselves. It also includes pictures of PEZ paraphernalia created for the PEZ Conventions. A second edition was published in 1998 with updated information.

"Collecting PEZ" by David Welch ($39.95, Bubba Scrubba Publications, 1995, ISBN 0964495600) is 350 pages, with about 275 photos. There are no duplicate photos from his previous book. The book also includes, history, about 30 interviews, a price guide, common collector questions and answers, and a checklist. The book can be ordered from David Welch for $43.95 (including shipping). This book came out in March of 1995.

"A Pictorial Guide to Plastic Candy Dispensers, Featuring PEZ" by David Welch
($19.95, Bubba Scrubba Publications, 1991 ISBN 0964495619) is a 50 page pictorial which covers PEZ dispensers up to 1991. All photos are full color. A rarity guide is also included. The book can be ordered directly from Welch.

"The Collector's Price Guide to Plastic Candy Dispensers" by John Laspina ($16.95, self-published) is a good identification guide, but contains no pictures. It includes a price estimate for each dispenser listed. This one is the most current and accurate price guide available.

"PEZ Handbook" by Steve Glew was a guide that had industry information for PEZ and Flix. Steve does not have any more copies available of it.

7.4. Where can I find these books?

If you can't find them in bookstores, they can be ordered online at most major booksellers, including http://www.amazon.com and http://www.bn.com.

Some of them are also available direct from the author or publisher:

The books by David Welch are available direct from him:
David Welch
PO Box 714
Murphysboro IL 62966
Phone: (618) 687-2282
FAX: (618) 684-2243
pezdude1@aol.com

The Geary books can be obtained from
Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
77 Lower Valley Road
Atglen PA 19310

They'll send you a catalog if you include $2.95 for postage.

The Laspina price guide is available for $16.99 (incl. ship) directly from the author at http://jjpezpal.com/

7.5. Are there any WWW sites for PEZ?

There are hundreds! Many provide listings or pictures of their own collections, many exhibit PEZ dispensers and collectibles for sale, and others provide useful information of their own. There are too many to list here, so here's a good starting point:

[WARNING! DO NOT CLICK THIS LINK IF YOU'RE RUNNING LATE FOR AN APPOINTMENT!]

http://pezlist.com/Links.html is an updated, alphabetical listing of PEZhead mailing list member websites. It also contains links to other noteworthy PEZ sites.

7.6. Is there a newsgroup or mailing list for PEZ?

The Pezhead E-mail List is home to over 1200 members and is very active. If you are interested in joining the list, visit http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/PEZheads to subscribe. A digest form of this mailing list is also available, or you can opt to read the messages on the web. Membership restrictions are as listed at http://www.pezlist.com/List_Guidelines.html.

Another similar resource for those who prefer web-based discussions is the Forums section of pezcommunity.com. Many members of the above list are also frequent contributors there.

7.7. How can I get the latest copy of this FAQ?

If you have a printer, click Print for about 50 pages of reading pleasure.

For an HTML version, go to: http://www.pezlist.com/faq/

For a text version, go to: http://www.pezlist.com/faq.txt. Once there, use your Browser's File/Save As to save the text file to a spot on your computer where you'd like to access the file using your word processing program for easier reading.

7.8. Have there been any newspaper or magazine articles about PEZ?

Sure there have. There have been too many to list here, but several news stories are written each year about the PEZ hobby, both in the print and electronic media. A search on http://news.google.com will often turn up several articles.

7.9. Where can I find these newsletters I've heard about?

Recently "The Fliptop PEZervation Society" newsletter merged with the newsletter called "PEZ Collectors News" (which was published from late 1995 to 1999. For a one year subscription, contact:

Richard Belyski
PO Box 14956
Surfside Beach, SC 29587
info@pezcollectorsnews.com
http://www.pezcollectorsnews.com/

There is also an Internet-based newsletter entitled The Pop-A-PEZ Newsletter. It is published several times a year and contains PEZ news, readers' stories, dealer advertisements, and much more. The address is: http://www.popapez.com/

There used to be a newsletter "The Optimistic Pezzimist" published by Mike Robertson of Dripping Springs, Texas. There was also another newsletter published by Larry Lafoe. Many antique price guides and collectible toy price guide include listings of discontinued PEZ dispensers and their current market values.

[8] Acknowledgements

8.1. Thanks!

Thanks to the following PEZHeads for their valued input on various versions of the FAQ: DiAnne Adams, Larry Ashton, Louis Apoldo, Leslie Astell, Pete Ayling, Anne Base, Richard Belyski, Karen Bennett, Marissa Bernstein, Gina Black, Ryan Blum, Kurt Boutin, Byron Boyd, Chris Bray, Adam Brown, Randall Bultman, Jackie Button, Kurt Byfield, Jack Canning, Jill Cohen, Eric Conrad, Red Conroy, Dan Cordova, Cosmo Johnson, Karen Cooper, Elyse Schwimer Davis, Diane Leigh Davison, Chip Didden, Gary & Nancy Doss, Dora Dwyer, Paul Emuranch, Andrew Feldman, Robin Fierce, Amy Forsyth, Brian Gochal, Nate Godin, Cheri Goldner, Sharon Goodis, Scott Gordon, Matt Hall, Bill Heltemes, David Hendrickson, Becky Hilburn, Sherrill Hondorf, Bertha Hubbard, Hector Irizarry, Michael S. Jackson, Michael Janssen, Chris Jordan, JustPaulPez, Maryann B. Kennedy, Brad Kollus, Jamie Kowinsky, Deb Krewson, Chris Lanni, Cliff Lee, Pam Lenox, John Loperfido, Scott Luther, Todd McAllister, M.S.C. McAlpin, David Mackey, Ryan Manchee, Sylvia Marienthal, Dennis Martin, Dick Melanson, Philip Michaels, Ben Mohr, Mark Naber, Jason Oesterly, Kelley Philipovich, Dale Pike, Jim Presnal, Tim Priebe, Charles Primack, Donald Reed, Rick Roberts, Susan Roberts, David Rowell, Mary Thronson, Eric Thorell, Sheila Sanders, Gene Schenberg, Erich Schreiber, Gary Sharp, Melissa Sharpe, Matt Shook, Rob Simons, Mary Jo Slusher, Geri Sullivan, Andrew Thomas, John Thompson, Eric Thorell, Sue Toupal, Charles Ulrich, Sam Valdez, Tom Walsh, Mary Ward, Jim Wartski, Michael Young and David Welch for his wonderful reference book which provided source material for some portions of this document.

Special thanks to Chris Sharpe for getting this project started, PEZ Queen Amy Forsyth for continuing the tradition, and the McAllisters for their hard work since then.

Laura Thompson in Public Relations at PEZ Candy, Inc. provided the original information packet for the very first version of the FAQ.

Final thanks to Maryann Kennedy, Pezhead Zero, for waiting patiently until we all showed up.