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From Lucite Blocks to 3D Masterpieces: The Evolution of Deal Toy Design Through 50 Years & One Man’s Collection
August 27, 2025,
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50 Years of Deal Toys
From Lucite Blocks to 3D Masterpieces: The Evolution of Deal Toy Design Through One Man’s Collection
Deal toys, formerly known as tombstones in some parts of the world, are more than just desk decorations. They are tangible reminders of hard work, collaboration, and success. For decades, these keepsakes have celebrated significant achievements in investment banking. However, like the deals they commemorate, deal toys have evolved significantly over time.
We had the honor of exploring the deal toy collection of Thomas Emmons, an Investment Banking titan whose career spans over 40 years. His collection includes pieces from as far back as the 1970s, when deal toys were simple, functional objects, to today’s over-the-top, intricate, and customized designs. As we kick off this content series, let’s explore how deal toys have evolved—and how companies like Altrum have been at the forefront of pushing boundaries in this unique art form from the beginning!
The 1970s and 1980s: Simplicity Over All
In the early days of deal toys, practicality was the priority. Designs were mostly limited to simple, clear acrylic blocks with the full page of deal information/tombstone on a piece of paper.
This design choice wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about function. Acrylic was, and still is, durable, easy to work with, and has a modern appeal. The material’s transparency makes the text and logos visible and has a sleek look. Still, the focus was more on documenting the deal than creating an eye-catching piece!
While these early designs might seem simple by today’s standards, they laid the groundwork for what would come. As we’ll see in the photos of Thomas’ early collection, they served their purpose well: commemorating milestones in a durable, timeless format.
The 1990s and 2000s: Creativity Takes Root
By the 1990s, deal toy designs began to evolve and branch out more! This era saw the introduction of custom shapes and a shift toward incorporating design elements that represented the deal or specific celebrated industry, something we still do today.
For example, designers began creating pieces shaped like company logos, products, or other important symbols associated with the deal instead of a simple acrylic block. The use of different materials like metal, wood, and even crystal entered the game alongside acrylic, adding some more texture and depth to the designs.
As technology advanced, so did the ability to customize. Etching, color printing, and laser-cutting techniques allowed for greater precision and creativity. These advancements meant deal toys could start to tell a story visually, not just through the text embedded inside.
During this period, photos from Thomas’ collection highlight the growing emphasis on creativity and the road ahead for design potential! You’ll notice more dynamic, colorful, and personal pieces, reflecting the deals they celebrated in unique ways.
Fast forward to 2025, the deal toy design possibilities are endless! At Altrum, we pride ourselves on creating genuine art pieces for our clients. From detailed 3D-printed models to intricately etched crystal designs and hand-painted elements, today’s deal toys are far from the simple acrylic blocks of the 1970s.
The focus has shifted to storytelling—capturing the essence of the deal and the spirit of the companies and people behind it. These new, more creative deal toy designs not only look impressive but also serve as powerful marketing tools, enhancing the reputation and brand image of the companies they represent. For instance, a deal toy for a cosmetics merger might incorporate packaging elements. At the same time, one for a tech acquisition could feature sleek, futuristic designs.
Customization is king, and every project offers an opportunity to innovate. Whether through cutting-edge materials, lighting elements, or complex multi-piece constructions, the only limit is your imagination! Our talented design and account management team is here to assist you, ensuring the deal toy you receive is that of your wildest dreams.
In Thomas’s recent collection of deal toys, you’ll see pieces that exemplify this creativity firsthand, with each one as a testament to how far the industry has come.
The Evolution Continues
Deal toy design’s evolution mirrors the financial industry’s growth and transformation. What started as simple commemorative blocks has become an art form that combines design, storytelling, and craftsmanship at its finest.
At Altrum, we’re honored to be part of this journey and have been since the beginning. For 50 years, we’ve helped clients celebrate their achievements with pieces that celebrate and inspire. As we look to the future, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in deal toy design!
