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Toy Clackers, also known as lik-Klaks, were popular in the 1970s and remain a favorite among antique toy collectors today. The toy consists of two plastic balls connected by a string. Swinging the balls back and forth produces a loud “clacking” sound.
The toy was invented in 1969 by a toy company called Wham-O. The company was also responsible for other popular toys such as the Hula Hoop, Frisbee, and Superball. Toy Clackers were so popular that the company sold over 10 million of them in the first year.
The item was later prohibited in many areas due to safety concerns. Some of the plastic balls were reported to have fractured, resulting in fragments flying off and injuring youngsters. The business subsequently manufactured a new version of the toy made of a safer material, but it never became as popular as the original.
Toy Clackers remain popular among collectors and people who recall playing with them as children. The old toy is a remembrance of simpler times, and those who are fortunate enough to own a pair continue to enjoy it.
I never owned a pair of these, but I do recall playing with them at friends’ houses. Did you have any?