
TOOLING AND ASSEMBLY
The Numb Skull (Casting #6024) is a hallmark of the 1972 Zowee line, engineered with a 1:125 micro-scale footprint. Unlike traditional Hot Wheels, the tooling utilizes a multi-part snap-fit assembly requiring no metal rivets.
- Body: High-impact injection molded plastic shaped as a stylized human skull.
- Chassis: Black plastic lower plate that snaps into the upper body, housing the axle channels.
- Wheels: Proprietary Zowee-scale thin-axle wheels with black "button" hubs.
VARIATIONS: SHELL VS. RETAIL
Numb Skull is categorized as one of the "Original Eight" Zowee models released in 1972.
- Shell Oil Promotional: Distributed in clear heat-sealed polybags as part of gas station promotions. These were typically "raw" or had specific sticker sheets included for consumer application.
- Retail Release: Sold on individual blister cards at a traditional retail price point. Retail versions are identical in mold to Shell versions but are significantly rarer to find in the original packaging.
COLOR REGISTRY
Following strict historical documentation:
- Body Color: White (Matte to Semi-Gloss plastic).
- Interior/Details: Black (provided by the chassis floor visible through eye sockets).
- Information Not Available: No other documented production body colors exist.
INTERNATIONAL BRANDING
Outside of the primary United States market, the Zowee line, including Numb Skull, was marketed under different monikers to suit regional branding:
- Germany/Europe: Branded as "Western Willy".
- United Kingdom: Distributed under the "Fun-Buggies" label.
CONDITION KILLERS
Collectors should inspect for the following common defects specific to this casting:
- UV Yellowing: The white plastic is highly susceptible to "nicotine" or "sun-fade" yellowing, significantly reducing value.
- Sticker Degradation: The adhesive on the "eye" and "crossbones" stickers often dries out, leading to peeling or total loss.
- Axle Warp: The 1:125 scale axles are extremely thin plastic; they are prone to bending under even slight pressure.
MARKET TRENDS
Values are based on historical auction data for authentic 1972-1973 releases.
- Loose (Good to Excellent): $20.00 – $40.00
- Loose (Mint/White): $45.00 – $65.00
- Mint in Shell Polybag: $75.00 – $110.00
- Mint on Retail Blister Card: $150.00 – $225.00 (Due to scarcity of carded survivors).






