There is evidence of the game of marbles in the ruins of Pompeii and the tombs of Egyptians as well as early American Indians. The earliest marbles were simply rounded stones which had been polished but this was refined to handmade versions made of clay, stone and glass. It was in the late 19th century that mass production began and it gives testament to the popularity of the game that the Dyke factory of Ohio could produce 1,000,000 marbles a day. It was around 1915 that the mass production of glass marbles began. The game reached the height of popularity in the 1920-1930’s. Many were prized for their designs.The game of marbles was one of the most common games played universally, from childhood hence has a strong link with people of all ages and cultures. Five marbles in glass jar. All are various sizes ranging from large yellow streaked with red and blue, black striped with white, marbled tan, clear with multi coloured streaks and bright blue. Shapes are roughly spherical. Materials range from glass to glazed and stone. Three have pontil marks either on end.The lid of the jar has Nestle vacuumed sealed for extra protection. Use special key to open. Old sticker on base with 173 written in black lead pencil. toys, marbles, children's games, warrnambool, handmade marbles, glass marbles, clay marbles, agate marbles