An idiot stick, or rubber band snatch, is considered a classic Midwestern toy – but it’s really a trick. It is comprised of a piece shaped like a notched peg or spinning top, and a box with a hole for the peg to enter. The trickster is supposed to demonstrate the peg getting caught on the rubber band inside the box, then hand it to the victim to try. The victim will keep pulling the rod out, confused as to why they can't catch the rubber band. In reality, there is no rubber band. A line drawn on the inside or a small nail inserted in the box only makes it look like there is. The conical shape of the peg allows the trickster to quickly slip the piece between their fingers and create a false snapping motion. This idiot stick is wooden, 2.125 inches long, in good condition and seems to have "JAPAN" stamped on the bottom in purple ink. Unfortunately, not much is known about its history. However, the stamp suggests that the toy could have been a souvenir or purchased at a five and dime store.