The Oddest Closet Discovery — Uncovering the Classic “Rattlesnake” Envelope Prank
Julian ColeTucked away in the back of a drawer or buried under old scarves, you find it: a strange little contraption made of bent wire, a rubber band, and a metal washer. At first glance, it looks like junk—maybe a broken clip or a forgotten craft project.
But then it clicks: It’s a rattlesnake envelope prank—a vintage gag that’s been startling unsuspecting mail recipients for over a century.
🐍 What Is the Rattlesnake Envelope Prank?
Despite the name, it has nothing to do with actual snakes. The “rattlesnake” is a simple spring-loaded device designed to mimic the sudden strike of a snake when an envelope is opened.
How It Works:
The gadget is folded flat and tucked inside a standard business-size envelope.
The envelope is sealed normally—often with a note like “Open carefully!” or “Important document inside.”
When the recipient lifts the flap, the tension releases—and the coiled wire springs out with a snap, startling them (and usually making them jump!).
It’s all about timing, surprise, and harmless mischief—a classic practical joke from the pre-internet era.
🕰️ A Brief History: