Toy maker A. C. Gilbert, famous for its erector sets and chemical apparatus, introduced a new line of science toys in early 1957. The colorful metal case of this microscope and lab set proclaims that "today's adventures in science will create tomorrow's America."
Test tubes on the left side of the interior contain Oregon balsam, denatured alcohol, thionine, phenolphthalein, diatomaceous earth, safranin stain, and a fly. There also is a compound monocular microscope with revolving three turret objectives, adjustable table, adjustable mirror, and focusing knob.
Further apparatus includes a plastic dish, a polarizing filter, a dropper, a dissecting needle, a glass rod, forceps, two glass slides, a box of cover glasses, a box of red litmus paper, and a box of fish scales. The donor, Sherrie Lyn Hall, received the set for Christmas in 1957.
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