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Original 1954 Gene Autry “Melody Ranch” metal lunch box with its matching vintage thermos — a fantastic piece of mid-century Western television and cowboy memorabilia.
The front features Gene Autry roping from horseback with Champion prominently pictured against a colorful ranch and desert scene. The surrounding panels and reverse are finished in the distinctive faux cowhide pattern associated with this design. Inside is the original matching Gene Autry Melody Ranch thermos with bright illustrated graphics and red cup/cap.
This design dates to 1954 and was part of the golden age of character lunch boxes, when Gene Autry’s television, radio and Western-film popularity was at its peak. Period examples are documented in major collections, including the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
Specifics
• Character: Gene Autry
• Theme: Melody Ranch / Western Cowboy
• Date: 1954
• Type: Metal lunch box with matching thermos
• Manufacturer tradition: Universal / Landers, Frary & Clark
• Material: Lithographed metal
• Faux cowhide-pattern exterior panels
• Original folding metal handle and latch
• Matching Gene Autry Melody Ranch thermos included
• Red thermos cup/cap present
• Glass thermos liner appears present
• Approx. lunch box size: about 9 x 7–7.5 x 3.5 in
Condition
Authentic vintage condition with substantial age and use wear.
Lunch box shows scratches, scuffs, oxidation, edge wear, surface rust, finish loss and significant wear to the faux cowhide decoration. Front Gene Autry artwork remains colorful and very displayable, though there are small puncture/impact marks visible near the center of the illustrated panel.
Interior shows expected staining, wear and oxidation. The name “SCOTT” has been written in red marker inside the lid.
Thermos is considerably nicer overall, with bright Gene Autry / Melody Ranch graphics, red cap/cup and surviving glass liner. It shows normal vintage surface wear and has not been tested for thermal performance or liquid retention.
Please inspect all photographs carefully for exact condition.
A wonderfully worn survivor with the most important bonus still riding along — its original matching Gene Autry thermos.
Keywords: Gene Autry lunch box, 1954 lunchbox, Melody Ranch thermos, vintage cowboy lunch box, Champion horse, Western memorabilia, singing cowboy, Universal lunch box, Landers Frary Clark, vintage metal lunchbox, 1950s cowboy collectible
