15 Vintage Novelty Phones Collectors Absolutely Need And Love
Ah, the sweet nostalgia of vintage novelty phones — back when communication came with a side of personality. As a fellow collector, I can’t help but grin every time I come across one of these glorious relics.
Whether they were shaped like animals, celebrities, or cheeseburgers, these phones turned everyday calls into full-blown performances. Forget sleek smartphones — these were chunky, funky, and full of character. Remember slamming down a call on a giant pair of lips? Or picking up a banana receiver just to say “Hello?” louder than necessary?
Yep, those were the days. These quirky creations didn’t just sit on the desk — they owned the room. So grab your rotary-dialing finger and get ready to press 1 for fun as we explore 15 of the most whimsical, wacky, and wonderfully weird novelty phones that collectors just can’t resist.
Let’s dial into the past — hilarity guaranteed!
1. The Lip Phone
Bold, red, and sassy, the Lip Phone made every call feel like a secret whispered on the sly. Nothing said “I’m fabulous” like puckering up to make a call. I remember seeing this in my aunt’s house and thinking, “Who knew lips could talk?”
This phone, shaped like a giant pair of luscious lips, was the epitome of glam in the 1980s. It was the perfect accessory for anyone wanting to add a hint of Hollywood drama to their phone conversations.
Collectors adore this for its unique design and flair, and it remains a hot item at vintage fairs. It’s the ultimate piece to satisfy your inner diva while you chat away!
2. Mickey Mouse Phone
Standing tall and proud, Mickey Mouse offered his hand in friendship and communication. With Mickey standing tall, hand on his hip, handing you the receiver like a Disney boss, every call was a magical experience.
This phone was a staple for Disney lovers everywhere. Its charm lies in the combination of nostalgia and Disney magic. Mickey, in his iconic pose, made sure no call went unanswered.
Collectors cherish it not only for its whimsical design but also for the childhood memories it evokes. Owning one is like holding a piece of Disney history in your hands.
3. Garfield Phone
Garfield fans unite! The Garfield Phone, with its eyes lazily opening when the phone rings, captured the essence of the ‘80s cool and lasagna-loving cat. It was the phone that said, “I’m here, but I’d rather be napping.”
This phone added a touch of humor to every call, making it a must-have for cat lovers and cartoon enthusiasts alike. The design was as iconic as Garfield’s love for lasagna.
For collectors, it’s a quirky piece that brings charm and fun to any collection. It’s a reminder that even Garfield would pick up the phone for the right conversation.
4. Hamburger Phone
Bun, patty, pickles, and all — you talk into a burger. The Hamburger Phone is iconic and tasty-looking, making it a delight for foodies and phone enthusiasts alike. Who wouldn’t want to chat between two buns?
With its realistic design, it became an instant hit and a conversation starter. Every call was a picnic, and every word tasted like fun.
Collectors prize this phone for its novelty and charm. It’s the perfect way to add flavor to your chat and a touch of whimsy to your collection.
5. Coca-Cola Bottle Phone
Shaped like a classic Coke bottle, this phone was an ode to pop culture and pop fizz, making it a collector’s heaven. It was more than just a phone; it was a statement piece.
Every call felt refreshing, like a fizzy drink on a hot summer day. Its design was both nostalgic and innovative, capturing the essence of Coca-Cola’s timeless appeal.
Collectors love it for its unique shape and cultural significance. It’s a bubbly addition to any collection, guaranteed to quench your thirst for retro style.
6. Football Helmet Phone
Great for sports fans, the Football Helmet Phone allowed you to lift the helmet to make a touchdown call. It was the phone for those who eat, sleep, and breathe football.
The design was clever, transforming a symbol of the game into a communications device. Every call felt like a play in the big leagues.
Collectors appreciate its sporty charm and unique concept. It’s the perfect piece for those who want to score a touchdown in the world of vintage phones.
7. See-Through Clear Phone
Wires, circuits, lights — the See-Through Clear Phone was cooler-than-cool, and every teen wanted to have one. It was a phone that let you see its inner workings, a tech lover’s dream.
The design was futuristic, a glimpse into the world behind the dial tone. It was both enlightening and stylish, making it a must-have for those who wanted to see behind the curtain.
Collectors prize it for its transparency and innovation. It’s a conversation piece that reveals the beauty of what’s inside, making every call a technological marvel.
8. The Trimline Neon Light Phone
Transparent with a neon glow, the Trimline Neon Light Phone was what we thought the future would look like. It was a blast of bright colors and modernity in one sleek device.
The phone’s illuminating design made it a standout piece in any room. It was as much about style as it was about function, turning every call into a light show.
Collectors are drawn to its vibrant appeal and futuristic design. It’s the perfect way to light up your life and your collection with some vintage flair.
9. Kermit the Frog Phone
Because it’s not easy being green… unless you’re taking calls on Kermit’s face. The Kermit the Frog Phone was a delightful addition to any Muppet fan’s collection.
With Kermit’s friendly face taking center stage, every call felt like a chat with a beloved friend. It was pure fun, bringing smiles with every ring.
Collectors cherish it for its playful design and its connection to the iconic Muppet Show. It’s a ribbit-ing choice for those who want to add a bit of frog-tastic fun to their lives.
10. Rotary Dial Candlestick Phone
A vintage throwback to the vintage, the Rotary Dial Candlestick Phone offered steampunk vibes before steampunk was a thing. It was elegance and nostalgia wrapped into one classic device.
This phone took us back to a time when phone calls were a grand affair. Its design was timeless, a nod to the early days of telecommunication.
Collectors admire it for its historical significance and classic style. It’s a piece that brings a touch of the past into the present, making every call a journey through time.
11. The Snoopy & Woodstock Phone
With Snoopy relaxing on his doghouse, the Snoopy & Woodstock Phone handed over the receiver like a true pal. It was a whimsical piece for Peanuts fans.
This phone captured the spirit of friendship and fun, with Snoopy and Woodstock making every call feel like a cartoon adventure. It was a joy to use and a delight to own.
Collectors love its playful design and its connection to the beloved Peanuts comic strip. It’s a phone that brings smiles and nostalgia with every ring.
12. Duck Phone
Yes, the one from Jersey Shore. Quirky, loud, and a little chaotic — just like the show. The Duck Phone made waves on screen and in real life.
With its unique quacking ring, it was impossible to ignore. It was both a conversation starter and a pop culture icon in its own right.
Collectors adore it for its outrageous design and its status as a reality TV legend. It’s a piece that keeps you guessing and keeps your collection interesting.
13. Sports Car Phone
Sleek, shiny, and usually red, the Sports Car Phone allowed you to lift the windshield to answer. It was a phone for those who lived life in the fast lane.
The design was as dynamic as a race car, making every call feel like a thrilling ride. It was a statement piece, both on the desk and in the collector’s cabinet.
Collectors value it for its sporty appeal and innovative design. It’s the perfect way to put the pedal to the metal in your vintage phone collection.
14. Looney Tunes Phone (Bugs Bunny or Tweety)
Because nothing says “call me” like a cartoon classic holding a handset. The Looney Tunes Phone, featuring Bugs Bunny or Tweety, was a favorite among animation fans.
This phone brought the zany world of Looney Tunes into everyday life, making every call an animated adventure. It was a conversation piece that delighted both young and old.
Collectors treasure it for its whimsical design and its connection to beloved cartoon characters. It’s a piece that adds a touch of animated fun to any collection.
15. Banana Phone
A literal banana, and some even sang. The Banana Phone was highly collectible and totally a-peeling. It was the phone that made everyone go bananas!
Its playful design brought a smile to every user, making calls as fun as a tropical vacation. It was quirky, unexpected, and full of character.
Collectors seek it out for its humor and unique shape. It’s a fruity addition to any collection, guaranteed to make you smile with every ring.