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Partially complete example of the Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Laboratory in its original red-patterned suitcase, measuring approximately 25˝ x 16.5˝ x 5˝, created by Alfred Carlton Gilbert, the inventor and entrepreneur best known for the Erector Set and a wide range of educational science kits. The laboratory retains many of its principal components, including the battery-powered Geiger-Müller counter (Model U-239 ‘Ferret’), electroscope, spinthariscope, Wilson cloud chamber, Atomic Energy Lab Deionizer, Dri-Electric Power Pack, nuclear spheres, three Winchester ‘Hi-Power’ batteries, and all four uranium ore specimens: Carnotite (No. 100), Autunite (No. 101), Torbernite (No. 102), and Uraninite (No. 103). Also present are assorted experiment accessories, source holders, and cloud chamber components. Accompanied by the Gilbert Atomic Energy Manual, Radioactive Source Replacement form, Gilbert Toys Inspector's Voucher, Prospecting for Uranium booklet, Dagwood Splits the Atom comic book, and Metaloglass instruction sheet. Incomplete, lacking several original radioactive source components and associated holders.
In very good condition, with some scuffing to the interior artwork and notable wear to the case, including partial separation to the base.
Produced only in 1950 and 1951, with fewer than 5,000 sold, the Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Laboratory ranks among the most famous and controversial science toys ever marketed. In 2006, Radar magazine included the set among its '10 most dangerous toys of all time' due to its inclusion of radioactive materials. A 2020 review in IEEE Spectrum examined the laboratory within the broader history of mid-century science education kits, concluding that radiation exposure from properly handled specimens was minimal and generally comparable to a day of ultraviolet exposure from sunlight.
