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Major Discovery: A Cartoon Bread Clip Character!
I’ve been waiting my whole life for this without even realizing it — but several details remain shrouded in mystery.
Sep 1
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Paul Lukas
36
13
1
The Enduring Appeal and Mystery of Clock Head
Minuteman Press’s familiar mascot character is an unsung mini-masterpiece — and also has some surprising quirks.
Aug 25
•
Paul Lukas
32
10
1
A Little-Known Chapter in Gas Station History
A find at an Indiana yard sale led to an intriguing 1970s rabbit hole. Plus a new Inconspicuous News Roundup!
Aug 11
•
Paul Lukas
26
21
1
The Fascinating Story of Juicy Fruit Gum
The unassuming product has had an odd history — including a key role in the evolution of modern retailing.
May 28
•
Paul Lukas
36
7
3
Lost and Found: The Power of a Rediscovered Artifact
How an old gum wrapper sent me on a nostalgic reverie. Plus a new Inconspicuous News Roundup!
May 27
•
Paul Lukas
26
10
2
How Much Stuff Do You Own?
Some people have decided to answer that question by cataloging their belongings, one material possession at a time.
May 6
•
Paul Lukas
54
18
4
A Very Dairy Mystery: The Colors of Butter
An epic deep-dive investigation into the confusing color-coded package designs of this familiar grocery staple.
Mar 3
•
Paul Lukas
54
29
4
A Museum Devoted to Everyday Items
Mexico City is home to an institution that’s right in the Inconspicuous Consumption wheelhouse.
Feb 18
•
Paul Lukas
and
Scott Teplin
46
18
5
Still More Bottom-Button Banter
The smallest of sartorial details continues to punch above its weight. Plus the economics of extra shirt buttons, and more.
Jan 29
•
Paul Lukas
30
13
1
What’s Wrong with This Picture?
My new shirt is perfect ... except for one little thing. Plus a new Inconspicuous News Roundup!
Jan 27
•
Paul Lukas
31
21
1
Collection Agency: Crunching the Numbers with a Calculator Collector
Rahul Saggar, a self-described “calcuphile,” is obsessed with old-school computational devices.
Dec 29, 2025
•
Paul Lukas
95
45
6
Collection Agency: Tucker Viemeister’s Amazing Wall of Toothpaste Tubes
An epic assemblage of a common consumer product. Plus a new raffle, and more!
Dec 8, 2025
•
Paul Lukas
25
15
1
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