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Description

Mattel Official Detective Shootin' Shell Snub-Nose .38 & Shoulder Holster Set with Original Box (Mattel, 1959). Issued in 1959, this Official Detective Shootin' Shell set represents Mattel's late-1950s output of law-enforcement-themed role-play toys, produced during a period when cap-firing realism and accessory completeness were central to appeal. The set is built around a snub-nose .38 Shootin' Shell revolver designed to fire caps loaded into removable plastic cartridges, paired with a shoulder holster intended for wear during play. Accompanying components include six bullets, cap sheets with original cap sheet box, an instruction sheet, and a target sheet, all elements that defined Mattel's premium detective kits of the era. The box shows moderate wear along the edges, with scuffing and dents present, and moderate scuffing with mild crushing at the corners. The box surfaces exhibit significant wear, including scuffing, creasing, and staining. The contents are used and housed in an open box. Some caps have been fired. Missing from the set are the wallet, badge, and identification cards. The gun, holster, six bullets, cap sheets, cap sheet box, instruction sheet, and target sheet remain present and are in good condition. A substantial survivor from Mattel's 1950s detective line, this Shootin' Shell set retains its key functional components and original packaging, offering a clear view into mid-century law-enforcement role-play toys and Mattel's early cap-firing designs.

Heritage Auctions provides detailed information when available but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements and photographs are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of facts, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Framed artworks are not examined outside their frames, and additional details from Heritage may be unavailable; therefore, the condition of unexamined works is not guaranteed. Heritage is not responsible for damage to frames, glazing, original boxes, display materials, or for works that have shifted within the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" in accordance with our Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Proxy Bidding Ends 
March
15th Sunday 7:00 pm CT
Auction Dates
March
15th Sunday
Proxy Bidding Time Remaining 
19 Days 4h 55m 22s
Internet/Mail Bids: 2
Lot Tracking Activity: 8
Page Views: 60

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25% of the successful bid (minimum $49) per lot.

This lot is in: 1 - Entertainment Session
(Lots 89001-89307) - 7:00 PM Central Time, Sunday, March 15, 2026.
[Internet bidding closes at 7:00 PM CDT the evening the session begins, with
extended bidding available.]

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Heritage Auctions - Dallas
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, TX 75261

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