You Can Trust Your Car....

...to the man that wears the star. 

Used to promote the sale of their Fire Chief gasoline brand Texaco introduced this nifty firefighter helmet in the 1960s.  It was available exclusively through Texaco filling stations for $3.98 with a fill-up.  It became an iconic promotional item that any boy would want to have.  My little brother had one.

Naturally, it boasted the technology of the era with a transistor loudspeaker and a handset microphone powered by a 9v battery.  Same as your transistor radio. 

Next time I see my brother I'll endeavor to remember to ask if he still has his helmet.  Even if it's no longer working it might be worth $20+ on eBay.  An excellent condition, working model might fetch $75-$100 from a collector.  While a pristine model in the original box might command a price north of $400.

Who knew....