As it says on the box "It is the fun new way to learn arithmetic." Not a calculator and more than just a toy this electronic learning aid was designed to improve the mental arithmetic skills of children in a fun way. The Little Professor made by Texas Instruments was an instant success, selling over a million units worldwide in 1977. This example of the second version was assembled in Italy in 1978. Remarkably after four decades of use it is still in full working order. As with other electronic gadgets of the day it has a simple, red LED display. The box remains strong and intact. There is creasing as well as rubbing at the corners and along the edges and also some remnants of adhesive tape. On the lid there is a colour photograph of the Little Professor unit and two children, with 1970's clothes and hair styles, playing. On the inside of the lid is a simplified, coloured set of user instructions. On the underside of the box is more instructions detailing the two ways of playing with Little Professor. Inside, the cardboard storage insert is heavily creased due to constant use over the decades, and resultant tears have been repaired using adhesive tape. The actual plastic handheld unit is in clean, undamaged condition. Included also are 13 large cards with ideas for activities and different games that can be enjoyed using Little Professor. Sadly it appears that none of the game boards have survived and are not included with this item. Overall this is a great example of vintage electronics. An ideal item for a collector of vintage electronic items, a collector of vintage toys, as part of a 1970's display, for someone wanting to relive their childhood or as originally intended a fun way of improving mental arithmetic skills.   **Battery not included**

Date: c.1978
Maker: Texas Instruments
Made in Italy

Dimensions (Box): 32cm x 24cm x 4cm