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Gus and the Bewitched Brakes, Popular Science, May 1950 - Black Coffee Mug

Gus and the Bewitched Brakes, Popular Science, May 1950 - Black Coffee Mug

100 in stock

Regular price $16.95 USD
Regular price Sale price $16.95 USD
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The "Gus and the Bewitched Brakes" Black Coffee Mug is a vintage collectible item from Popular Science magazine's May 1950 issue. This mug showcases an intriguing illustration from the article titled "Gus and the Bewitched Brakes," which delved into the mystery of why Gus's truck brake system suddenly malfunctioned. The design captures the essence of the story, featuring a towering hill, a distressed truck, and a curious mechanic named Gus. This mug not only serves as a functional piece for your morning coffee but also as a testament to the fascinating world of mechanical troubleshooting and problem-solving. Perfect for anyone who appreciates unique and cool drinkware with a touch of classic popular science.

The illustration on this mug, inspired by the article "Gus and the Bewitched Brakes," offers a glimpse into the world of automotive repair in the 1950s. The design, which captures the tension and intrigue of the story, would appeal to mechanics, classic car enthusiasts, or anyone with an interest in the history of technology and problem-solving. This mug serves as a reminder that even seemingly complex issues can be deciphered through perseverance and critical thinking, as demonstrated by Gus in the article.

In addition to its historical value, the "Gus and the Bewitched Brakes" Black Coffee Mug is an excellent conversation starter. Its unique design will undoubtedly catch the attention of guests in any setting, sparking discussions about science, engineering, and problem-solving. This mug makes a thoughtful gift for anyone with a passion for technology or a love for vintage collectibles.

The "Gus and the Bewitched Brakes" Black Coffee Mug is more than just a functional drinkware item—it's a piece of history that showcases the spirit of inquiry, determination, and ingenuity. Perfect for anyone who appreciates unique and cool drinkware.

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Glossy black ceramic mugs in two practical sizes — 11 oz (≈330 ml) and 15 oz (≈440 ml). Comfortable C-handle, microwave- and dishwasher-safe, and manufactured to be lead- and BPA-free. Note: printed blacks may read slightly different from the mug’s base color.

These mugs are made from solid ceramic with a glossy glaze that gives a deep, even surface for printing. Sublimation printing embeds ink into the glaze so artwork sits smoothly on the mug rather than simply sitting on top — that means better resistance to fading and scratching during normal use.

They’re available in the classic 11-ounce size for everyday black coffee and tea, and a larger 15-ounce cup if you like extra room for milk, foam or a long pour. The C-shaped handle is wide enough for a secure grip and balances the mug well when full.

  • Material: 100% ceramic with a high-gloss finish for punchy, saturated results.
  • Sizes: 11 oz (≈330 ml) and 15 oz (≈440 ml) — choose your routine size.
  • Printing: sublimation process fuses color into the glaze for durable imagery.
  • Safety: lead- and BPA-free; meets common food-contact safety standards.
  • Design note: very dark artwork and the mug’s black base can produce subtle shade differences — add a thin lighter outline to ensure contrast if needed.

These mugs are at home in the kitchen, on the office desk, or tucked into a morning routine. They work for espresso shots, pour-overs, oat-milk lattes — you name it. The larger size is handy when you want a second cup’s worth without a refill.

  1. Daily use: fill with your preferred brew and sip — the mug handles hot liquids safely.
  2. Office-friendly: fits most standard mug warmers and sits securely on communal trays and kitchen counters.
  3. Gifting: packs well (wrap with a soft layer) and pairs nicely with coffee beans, tea tins, or a small box of biscuits.

Practical tip: for very dark designs, try a thin light border or a small margin so the artwork reads cleanly against the black ceramic.

These mugs are both microwave- and dishwasher-safe, but gentle habits extend the life of the print. We recommend dishwasher use on the top rack and milder cycles when possible.

Hand-washing is the friendliest option: warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge. Avoid steel wool, harsh scouring pads, or blasting with extremely hot industrial cycles. And a quick reminder — don’t microwave an empty mug.

Two sizes: 11 oz (approx. 330 ml) and 15 oz (approx. 440 ml). The smaller cup is the familiar, everyday size; the larger one is for fuller pours and extra-creamy drinks.

Each mug’s mouth and height are proportioned so they’re easy to drink from and easy to clean. If you’re pairing with saucers or nesting in cabinets, expect the 15 oz to be slightly wider and taller than the 11 oz.

Size guide

All measurements are product dimensions in inches.

11 oz 15 oz
Height (in) 3.86 4.72
Diameter (in) 3.35 3.35
Diameter with handle (in) 4.72 5.12

Note: dimensions are nominal — small production tolerances may apply. If you need precise fitment (e.g., for nested storage or custom packaging), please allow a small margin.